This one bodyweight exercise strengthens your upper body and core without weights — and no, it’s not regular push-ups or planks

Woman in studio next to brick wall in a tabletop position.

I’ve learned two things about animal-themed exercises in the fitness world: they’re likely functional and torturous. This bodyweight exercise is both, and it’s brilliant at strengthening your core, chest, and triceps.

The bear push-up combines two of my favorite exercises: push-ups and bear planks, but it's not quite either. From a tabletop position, you’ll lift your knees to hover above the floor, then perform a push-up by bending your elbows and sending your weight forward.