Are you having trouble doing push-ups, or perhaps even doing just 1 push-up? Then there are a few different techniques that you can do for beginners push-ups. Just being able to hold a push-up position with your back straight and keeping the core tight can take a decent amount of strength and endurance to begin with.
The easiest way to start building your pushing strength would be to find a kitchen counter, a railing, or anything that you can lean against to form a 45 degree angle with your body. Then get into the push-up position by having the shoulders tucked in and keeping your legs and abs are tight. This will help keep your back straight and engage more muscles from the core and back to help with the exercise.
Next, simply perform the push-ups. Even the most out-of-shape individual should be able to get at least 10 good range push-ups with this easy technique.
After you complete a set of "45-degree angle" push-ups, then try dropping down to the floor and holding your self in the push-up position. Remember to keep the body tight and rigid to support your back and prevent it from sagging down towards the floor. Hold this "leaning rest" position for as long as you can, then push your self into yoga position called downward dog. The downward dog position will relieve some tension from the core but it will continue to put tension on the shoulders.
Basic workout
10x - 45-degree push-ups
30 seconds - Holding the push-up position/downward dog.
Keep repeating this cycle for as many times as you can. Feel free to add a set of sit-ups in between.
In a week or two from starting this workout, you may want to move onto doing knee push-ups. You can also try doing sets of these throughout the day and really build up some rep numbers.
Pretty soon you will be able to do 1 push-up with perfect form. Then simply keep doing your set of 1 rep push-up throughout the day. It wont be long before you are cranking out some serious numbers.
Also keep in mind almost all the muscles in the body support yourself while doing a single push-up, so it would be wise to learn different body-weight exercises that will all help supplement your push-up training.