Push-ups are often considered to be an exercise that is solely beneficial to your chest muscles. However, your chest muscles are just one of the many muscle groups that reap the rewards of dropping to the floor an performing push-ups. Since all you need is your body and the floor, push-ups are an effective means of working your pectoralis major, anterior deltoids, triceps and your abdominal muscles.
Triceps
Your triceps are the group of muscles position on the anterior of your arms. They are primarily responsible for any pushing motions you may make. Your triceps also aid in your ability to extend your arm. During push-ups, the triceps are the major arm muscle that work to raise you back to the starting position upon completion of a push-up.
Pectoralis Major
Your pectoralis major are the two large muscles that make up your chest. These muscles are used primarily as pushing muscles that serve your upper body. As you lower and raise yourself during a push-up, your pectoralis major muscles are responsible for this motion and complete most of the work required to lift your body weight.
Anterior Deltoid
Your anterior deltoid muscles are located in the back portion of your shoulders. These muscles combine forces with the pectoralis major muscles in order to raise and lower your body during a push-up. These muscles are relatively weak but when combined with the pectoralis major muscles, they are able to complete the movements necessary to successfully complete a push-up.
Abdominals
Your abdominal muscles are used during a push-up in order to stabilize the rest of your body. Your abdominal muscles are also known as your core muscles. These muscles contract and help to stabilize and align the spine, neck, hips and pelvis as you complete a push-up. Your abdominal muscles remain contracted as your body lowers and raises during a push-up.
References
- NASM: Essentials of Personal Fitness Training; 2008
- Georgia State University; Push-Ups
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