Average Pushups (Men & Women) — See Your Rank vs General Population

By Aziz Mezlini, PhD — Founder/Scientist • Updated: August 13, 2025

What is the average number of pushups? See pushup standards by age and gender. Enter your pushup count to see your percentile ranking and fitness classification.

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See Your Pushup Percentile

Join users who've discovered their true pushup level and are tracking improvements with our evidence-based pushup standards.

Pushup standards help you understand where your upper body strength and endurance rank compared to the general population. Unlike elite athlete standards that can be demotivating, our benchmarks are based on realistic data approaching the general population distribution. Whether you're just starting out or have been training for years, these standards give you a clear picture of your current level and realistic goals to work toward.

Why Pushup Standards Matter

Upper Body Fitness

Pushups are a key indicator of upper body strength, endurance, and overall fitness level.

No Equipment Needed

Pushups can be done anywhere, making them an accessible fitness benchmark for everyone.

Progress Tracking

Track improvements over time and see your percentile increase as you get stronger!

Average Pushup Standards by Age & Gender

1

Age-Specific Standards

Pushup capacity naturally declines with age, so standards are adjusted for different age groups.

2

Gender Differences

Men typically have higher pushup counts due to greater upper body strength and muscle mass.

3

Fitness Level Classification

From beginner to elite, see exactly where your pushup count ranks in your demographic.

Example: A 25-year-old man who can do 25 pushups might be in the 70th percentile, while a woman of the same age doing 15 pushups could be in the 75th percentile. Our calculator accounts for these differences.

Scientific Basis: Based on population studies and fitness research data from StrengthLevel.com and CDC fitness surveys

Our Evidence-Based Pushup Assessment Method

How Our Pushup Standards Calculator Works

Our pushup percentile calculator uses validated population data to show you exactly where you rank. Unlike elite athlete standards, we focus on the general population to provide realistic, achievable benchmarks that motivate rather than discourage.

Scientific Basis: Based on population studies and fitness research data. Our standards are designed for the general population, not elite athletes, providing realistic benchmarks for everyday people.

Population-Based Data

Uses data from large-scale studies of the general population, not just trained athletes or gym-goers.

Accuracy: Realistic benchmarks for everyday people

Age & Gender Specific

Accounts for natural strength differences by age and gender to provide fair comparisons.

Fairness: Apples-to-apples comparisons

Proper Form Standards

Based on proper pushup form with full range of motion and controlled movement.

Quality: Form over speed

Percentile Rankings

Shows your exact percentile ranking and fitness classification (beginner, intermediate, advanced, etc.).

Clarity: Clear performance indicators

Progress Tracking

Track improvements over time and see your percentile increase as you get stronger.

Motivation: Visual progress indicators

Goal Setting

Provides realistic pushup goals based on your current level and desired percentile.

Guidance: Actionable improvement targets

Pushup Standards Categories

Beginner: 0-25th percentile - Just starting your fitness journey
Intermediate: 25-75th percentile - Consistent training with good form
Advanced: 75-90th percentile - Strong relative to the general population
Elite: 90-99th percentile - Exceptional upper body fitness for your demographic

Quick Pushup Standards Reference

Average Pushups (Men)

Number of consecutive pushups with proper form

Beginner:5-10
Intermediate:15-25
Advanced:30-40
Elite:50+

Average Pushups (Women)

Number of consecutive pushups with proper form

Beginner:3-8
Intermediate:10-20
Advanced:25-35
Elite:40+

Want your exact percentile? Use our calculator to see precisely where you rank.

Calculate My Pushup Percentile

How to Get Your strength Calculation

1

Sign in with your email (free)

Create your free account to access the newest health tools and calculators.

2

Fill in your health profile

Add your age, gender, and pushup count to get your percentile ranking and fitness classification.

3

Go to Health Scores → Nutrition

Find your pushup standards and percentile rankings with detailed breakdowns of your performance level.

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Ready to See Your Pushup Percentile?

Join users who've discovered their true pushup level and are tracking improvements with our evidence-based standards.

Free forever • No credit card required • Results in 2 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average number of pushups for men and women?

The average number of pushups varies by age and gender. For men aged 20-29, the average is around 15-20 pushups, while women average 8-12 pushups. Our calculator shows exact percentiles based on your age and gender.

How do I compare my pushup count to others?

Use our pushup percentile calculator to see exactly where you rank. Enter your age, gender, and pushup count to get your percentile ranking and fitness classification (beginner, intermediate, advanced, etc.).

What is considered a good number of pushups?

A "good" number of pushups depends on your age and gender. Generally, being able to do 20+ pushups for men and 15+ for women is considered good. Our calculator shows exact percentiles and what counts as strong for your demographic.

How often should I test my pushup count?

We recommend testing your pushup count every 2-4 weeks to track improvements. Regular testing helps you see progress and maintain motivation as you build upper body strength and endurance.

Is 20 pushups good?

Depends on age and gender. For many adult men, 20 strict reps is decent, 50 is advanced; for women, 10 is good, 30 is advanced. See your exact percentile with our calculator.

How can I increase pushups fast?

Use daily submax sets (3–5 × 60–80% of max), sharpen technique (full ROM, rigid core), and support with bench/dips. Retest biweekly.

Do knee pushups count?

They’re a solid regression to build strength and form, but standards usually refer to full pushups. Progress knee → incline → full.

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