Push ups are a quintessential way to build upper body strength, focusing on the muscles in the chest, shoulders and triceps, in particular. Major muscles used for a push up include recruiting the pectoralis major of the chest, deltoids, triceps, and serratus anterior along the sides of the ribcage. As you adapt to the movement, you'll work towards building stability within your core muscles, as well.
- Start with both hands on the floor, wrists stacked beneath your shoulders.
- Curling the back toes under both feet, push the body up and away from the floor.
- Keep the hips even and level, without letting the hips sag down towards the floor or arching of the spine.
- In one continuous motion, lower the body down to the floor.
- Push the ground away and return to the starting position.
- Aim for one to two sets of 6 to 10 repetitions.
