Push-ups are effective in building muscular strength and endurance. In fact, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends a push-up test to evaluate the muscular endurance of the upper body. Due to their accurate assessment of fitness, push-ups are included in the physical training of the military as well as physical education classes throughout the country.
Pectoral Muscles
The pectoral muscles of the chest are the primary target of a push-up. The pectoralis minor, the smaller underlying muscle of the pectoral group, works to stabilize the shoulder joint. The pectoralis major, the larger muscle of the two, works to horizontally extend the flexed arm at the shoulder. This action is observed when you push your body away from the floor.
Deltoid Muscles
The shoulder is also used to execute a push-up, specifically the anterior portion of the deltoid muscle. The deltoid works in unison with the pectoral muscles in extending the arm at the shoulder when pushing away from the floor.
Triceps Brachii Muscles
The triceps brachii is located on the back of the upper arm. The triceps work to straighten the arm at the elbow as well as extend the arm at the back of the shoulder. The triceps are utilized during both the downward and upward phases of the push-up.
References
- ACE Exercise Library: Push-Up
- "ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription"; Seventh Edition; Lawrence Armstrong, PhD, FACSM, Gary J. Balady, MD, Michael J. Berry, PhD, FACSM, Shala E. Davis, PhD, FACSM, Brenda M. Davy, PhD, RD, LC, Kevin P. Davy, PhD, FACSM, et al; 2006
- "Anatomy & Physiology", Second Edition; Elaine N. Marieb; 2005
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