The easy answer to whether isometrics can replace pushups is no, but it is more complicated than that. In general, pushups and isometric exercises fall into two different strength training categories. Each produces different results. Isometrics is without movement and pushups are with movement, called isotonics. But truly whether you can just do isometrics depends on your fitness goal.
Improving Strength
Isometric exercises do make you stronger so if that was your reason for doing pushups, it is possible that isometric exercises for the chest can take the place of pushups in your routine. You'll need to do a variety of isometric chest exercises to replace pushups for strength though, because isometrics only increases strength at the angle that you do the exercise. Whereas a pushup makes you stronger through the entire range of motion, isometrics only makes you stronger in the exact position you do the exercise.
Improving Muscle Size
Resistance training to bulk up, or increase muscle size, is called hypertrophy. Isometrics is effective for this goal. Of course, so are pushups. One isn't necessary better than the other except that pushups do place some stress on the joints that isometric exercises don't. Pushups burn more calories though, which might be relevant if you are also trying to lower your body fat percentage so you can see muscle definition.
Examples of Isometric Exercises
Isometric chest exercises come in two types, submaximal and maximal. An isometric pushup is an example of a submaximal exercise. In yoga, this position is called the four-limbed staff pose, or chaturanga dandasana. For submaximal training you simply hold an object up against gravity: in this case, your body. To do this exercise, start in pushup position and then bend your elbows, tucking them into your sides.
An example of a maximal exercise is the isometric chest squeeze. Maximal exercises involve pushing against an immovable object, in this case your other hand. To do this exercise, sit down and place your palms together with your arms in front of you, fingers pointing forward and elbows bent slightly. You can also clasp hands and bend the elbows inside your sides to strengthen the chest at a different angle. Press your hands together as hard as you can.
Limitations of Isometric Training
Although isometric training does increase isometric strength and muscle size, it does not improve strength, speed or power for dynamic movements. Daily life often involves lifting, pushing or pulling objects including your own body. Pushups build dynamic strength. If you're an athlete, isometrics should not replace pushups but should instead complement them as part of a total workout program. However, if you are focusing on stabilization training, muscular endurance or strength, or are recovering from an injury or surgery, then isometrics might be better than pushups.
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