The push-up is a strength-building exercise that requires no machinery or fitness tool. Its effectiveness relies solely on body weight and the form of the user. Variations of the push-up have also been established. When standard push-ups grow tedious, a simple change in form or addition of unstable surface can increase the difficulty. Regardless of form, the push-up works several muscles and muscle groups simultaneously, which is one reason why military forces use them in training, per Military.com.
Pectoralis
The chest muscles are the focus of the standard push-up. Muscle groups in the chest include the pectoralis (also called pecs) muscles. The pectoralis minor plays a large role in allowing the shoulder to move or shrug forward, according to FitStep.com. The movement of pushing upward will cause the pectoral muscles to contract alongside the other muscle groups activated by this exercise.
Triceps
The triceps refers to a three-part muscle group located on the back of the upper arm, according to FitStep.com. When pushing upward, this muscle group contracts and supports the chest until the position is reached and relaxed. The triceps help take some of the body weight off the palms as the upward push-up motion begins. The push-up is not the primary exercise for building tricep strength. An inclined chest press can activate this muscle group more effectively.
Deltoids
The deltoid muscle group makes up the primary shoulder muscles, per FitStep.com. In order to move the pectoralis muscles, the anterior deltoid must be contracted and utilized during a push-up. This muscle is located on the front of the shoulder, close to the pectoralis muscles. The rotator cuff keeps the shoulder joint stable, according to FitStep.com.
Member Comments