Push-up
Also called press-up, floor push-up
- Works
- Chest · pectoralis major
- Back of the upper arm · triceps brachii
- Front of the shoulder · anterior deltoid
- Deep trunk · transversus abdominis
- Needs
- No equipment
Setup
Put your hands on the floor a little wider than your shoulders. Step your feet back until your body is straight from head to heels.
Steps
- Tighten your stomach and buttocks.
- Bend your elbows and lower your chest toward the floor.
- Keep your elbows at about 45 degrees from your body.
- Stop when your chest is a fist's height from the floor.
- Push the floor away until your arms are straight.
Breathing
Breathe in as you lower. Breathe out as you push.
Where you feel it
In your chest, the back of your upper arms and the front of your shoulders. Your stomach works to keep you straight.
Common mistakes
- Letting the hips sag toward the floor.
- Flaring the elbows straight out to the sides.
- Stopping halfway down.
When to stop
Stop if you feel sharp pain, pain in a joint, dizziness or numbness.