How Many Push-Ups Should an Average 12-Year-Old Do?

As a twelve-year-old who can do 55 push-ups in a row, I would say the average 12-year-old should be able to complete at least 10–15 push-ups in a row with good form. However, the number of push-ups an average 12-year-old can do can vary based on factors like fitness level, body weight, and overall health. A general guideline suggests that:

Push-Up Recommendations by Gender

Boys: Typically, a 12-year-old boy may be able to do around 10 to 20 push-ups.
Girls: 12-year-old girls may average around 5 to 15 push-ups.

These numbers can differ significantly based on individual fitness and training. It is important for young people to focus on proper form and gradually increase their strength rather than aiming for a specific number. Encouraging a variety of physical activities is also beneficial for overall fitness.

Motivation and Goals

When I was 12, I was able to do much more than the average—around 172 push-ups in a row. However, the key is not to judge yourself based on what others can do. How many do you want to do, and can you do them correctly?

Pavel Tsatouline, a former Russian Special Forces trainer who now lives in the US, teaches a training method called “Grease the Groove” (GTG). This method can be effective for young and old alike. Learn more about GTG by searching online or on YouTube. Here’s a quick overview:

Follow this technique consistently, and in three months, you may be surprised by your progress. Why not apply this method to other exercises like sit-ups, pull-ups, burpees, and body weight squats? Additionally, explore different types of push-ups, such as Hindu push-ups, leopard push-ups, handstand push-ups, and diamond push-ups.

For example, learning to tighten your shoulder girdle, abs, and toes while doing push-ups can enhance your form and effectiveness. By focusing on these elements, you’ll see improvements more quickly.

Personal Success Story

I am an old man, and in just three or four weeks, I went from struggling to do 12 decent push-ups to doing 40 to 60. By that time, I was doing over 200 push-ups in a day, sometimes even reaching 300. This was all thanks to the GTG method. Good luck, and don’t be afraid to set goals and work hard towards them.

Remember, progress is personal, and what matters is that you are improving your own skills and fitness. Keep pushing yourself, and you’ll see significant results.