How to do the Shoulder Tap
Shoulder Tap is a beginner single-joint isolation pushing exercise targeting the Abs in the Waist region. Performed using bodyweight, it falls under the strength category. Secondary muscles engaged include Shoulders and Triceps.
Shoulder Tap demonstration · © GymiaFit
Shoulder Tap at a glance
- Primary muscles
- Abs
- Secondary muscles
- Shoulders, Triceps
- Equipment
- Body Weight
- Level
- Beginner
- Type
- Isolation (single-joint)
- Force
- Push
Shoulder Tap step by step
- 1Start in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders and your body in a straight line.
- 2Engage your core and lift your right hand off the ground, reaching across to tap your left shoulder.
- 3Place your right hand back on the ground and repeat with your left hand tapping your right shoulder.
- 4Continue alternating shoulder taps while keeping your hips and torso stable.
- 5Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Shoulder Tap — questions
What muscles does the Shoulder Tap work?
The Shoulder Tap primarily targets the Abs. It also recruits the Shoulders, Triceps as secondary movers.
What equipment do I need for the Shoulder Tap?
None — the Shoulder Tap uses your bodyweight only, so it works at home with nothing but floor space.
Is the Shoulder Tap suitable for beginners?
Yes. It is classed as a beginner movement: the pattern is simple enough to learn in a session and easy to scale by adjusting range of motion or load.
What can I do instead of the Shoulder Tap?
3/4 Sit-up, 45° Side Bend, Air Bike train the same muscles and make good substitutes when the equipment is taken or the movement does not suit you.
Log it, don't guess it.
The GymiaFit app has the Shoulder Tap demo, form cues and set logging built in — plus a muscle map that shows what you have actually trained this week. Free on iOS and Android.