What Muscles Do Push-ups Target?

Mar 13, 2011 | By Sha Buckines

Push-ups are a popular exercise because you can perform them anywhere without additional equipment. All you need is a mat or towel to cushion your knees and upper body strength to perform the exercise. Push-ups are performed modified, with the knees on the ground, or standard, with knees off the ground and the body weight supported by the hands and toes. Push-ups target several muscle groups, and varying the position of the hands or feet changes the intensity of the exercise.

Pectoralis Major

The major muscle targeted by push-ups is the pectoralis major. The pectoralis major is the large muscle in the chest and is responsible for flexion of the arm while performing push-ups. Varying the tilt of the chest focuses on different parts of the pectoralis major, according to "Strength Training Anatomy." With the feet higher, you isolate the portion of the pectoralis close to the clavicle, or top center of the chest. With the chest lifted higher, you target the lower part of the pectoralis muscle closer to the abdomen.

Anterior Deltoid

The anterior deltoid is the muscle at the front of the shoulder. The anterior deltoid assists the pectoralis major in flexing the arm during the push-up. The anterior deltoid is also responsible for raising the arms straight out in front of the body at eye level.

Tricpes Brachii

The triceps brachii muscle is at the back of the arm. The triceps brachii muscle consists of three heads, hence the name. It is responsible for extension of the elbow during the push-up. To target the triceps muscle more during the push-up, bring the arms in closer to the body and point the elbows back behind you.