Push-up

The push-up is a classic, compound exercise that targets multiple muscle groups in the upper body, making it a staple in any fitness routine. It primarily focuses on the chest, shoulders, and triceps while engaging the core and stabilizer muscles as well. This bodyweight exercise requires no equipment and can be performed almost anywhere, making it a convenient and effective choice for home or gym workouts. When done correctly, push-ups can help to increase upper body strength and muscle endurance. They can also enhance overall functional fitness by improving pushing and pressing movements, which are essential for daily activities like pushing a door open or lifting objects off the ground. Although push-ups are often seen as a chest exercise, proper form is crucial to fully engage the targeted muscles and prevent injury. This includes keeping the body in a straight line from head to toe, engaging the core, lowering the chest until it is parallel to the ground, and pushing back up using the arms and chest muscles. Modifications such as performing push-ups on the knees or an elevated surface can be useful for beginners or individuals with limited upper body strength. To make the most of your push-up workout, consider incorporating variations like wide-grip or diamond push-ups, which target different muscle groups. Additionally, adjusting the tempo, adding resistance bands, or incorporating plyometric movements can provide additional challenges and further enhance muscle strength and power. Remember, proper form, consistency, and gradual progression are key. Start with a number of reps that you can comfortably perform with good technique and gradually increase the difficulty over time. As always, listening to your body, staying hydrated, and fueling with appropriate nutrition will support your overall fitness journey.

Instructions

• Start by positioning yourself face down on the floor with your hands shoulder-width apart and your legs extended behind you.
• Keep your body straight and engage your core muscles.
• Lower your body towards the floor by bending your elbows, while keeping your back and legs in a straight line.
• Continue lowering yourself until your chest is almost touching the floor.
• Pause for a moment, then push yourself back up to the starting position by straightening your arms.
• Make sure to exhale as you push up and inhale as you lower yourself down.
• Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions.

Tips & Tricks

• Engage your core muscles throughout the movement for stability and added strength.
• Keep your body in a straight line from head to toe, avoiding any sagging in the hips or raising of the hips.
• Breathe out as you push yourself up and breathe in as you lower yourself down.
• Start with modified push-ups or knee push-ups if you're new to the exercise to build strength.
• Incorporate different variations of push-ups, such as diamond push-ups or decline push-ups, to target different muscle groups.
• Focus on slow and controlled movements, rather than rushing through the exercise.
• Don't lock your elbows at the top of the movement to avoid unnecessary stress on the joints.
• Ensure your hands are positioned slightly wider than shoulder-width apart to target your chest, triceps, and shoulders effectively.
• Perform push-ups on a stable surface, such as a yoga mat or exercise mat, to provide cushioning and prevent discomfort.
• Consistency is key, so aim to gradually increase the number of push-ups you can do over time.