https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frjhTszm3Cc&t=21s

On the same topic of shoulder strength and stability foundational exercises, this form of modified push-up is a great tool to be used as a stepping block when patients are extremely weak following a shoulder injury and not quite ready to do more traditional plank type exercises. Like the hug the ball exercise, it can be gradually made more challenging as the patient progresses in their recovery.

The "crocodile push-up" ensures that the elbows are facing the knees, keeping the elbows from flailing out, and the glenohumeral joint firmly centered in the socket. The patient will start doing the exercise from the knees up, and can bend as little as needed in order for the isometric hold to be tolerated for about 5 seconds before a slow release. The patient can eventually progressed to lower push up, longer hold time, and full plank starting position.