The Perfect Pushup is an "As Seen on TV" product manufactured by Perfect Fitness. It consists of a pair of handles mounted on flat bases. To use the product, you grip the handles to enhance your push-up workout. According to the manufacturer, benefits of the Perfect Pushup include less joint strain, more muscle engagement and increased stability. The Perfect Pushup is a relatively low cost piece of fitness equipment -- just under $40 in 2011 -- and may have some benefits.
Expert Insight
In 2010, the Mayo Clinic conducted a study published in the "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" to compare how effective push-ups are with the Perfect Pushup compared to traditional push-ups. EMG technology was used to measure muscle activity in the triceps, pecs and deltoids. Based on the results of the EMG measurements, it was determined that the Perfect Pushup did not enhance muscle use over conventional push-ups.
Considerations
If you do want to use the Perfect Pushup, the best results are likely to be seen when using the device to perform wide grip push-ups. According to a 2009 study at the University of Wisconsin, more muscle activity in this position is likely since the range of motion is greater. You are increasing your range of motion by as much as 5 in. for each rep using the wide grip stance.
Benefits
One of the main benefits of the Perfect Pushup is that your elevated position puts less stress on the joints in the wrist. As long as you maintain a neutral position, you should not feel any strain in the wrists during reps. If you don't have the Perfect Pushup, an elevated push-up can also be done with a set of dumbbells.
Warning
You may want to avoid using the Perfect Pushup if you suffer from shoulder injuries. Maintaining the elevated position to use the device can put stress on the shoulders and increase your risk of injury. Also, if you don't have a strong upper body, you may find it difficult to remain in a stable position to complete the push-ups.
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