Pushups are a staple of all different kinds of exercise routines, and rightfully so. The benefits you receive from them go well beyond just your chest and triceps; they also work your core, shoulders, legs, and back when done properly. You can add pushups to your current routine for a little variety or, if you already have them in your routine, you can try different variations to challenge yourself even more. If you have enough room to lay down, you have enough room to get a solid chest workout!
Things to remember:
- Make sure your hips stay in line with your shoulders and heels throughout the entire movement
- Slowly lower yourself down as deep as you can and come back to the top with a controlled motion
- Make sure you have as much pressure on your hands as possible, minimizing the amount of pressure you have on your toes. You can do this by leaning forward
- Keep your chin gently tucked to your chest so you aren’t looking forward or reaching your chin down to the ground
- Don’t hold your breath
There are certain things we are told to do every day: brush your teeth, eat your fruits and veggies, find a way to exercise in some capacity. The last one seems to be the hardest to find the time and motivation for on a consistent basis. By incorporating variations of some classic exercises (i.e. pushups) into your routine, you can check that last task off your list and feel good about doing something positive for yourself.
Get your own personalized plan!By Jordan Meyer, Certified Personal Trainer & Group Exercise Instructor at Elite Sports Club-North Shore