Are Push Ups A Resistance Exercise

Table of Contents:

• Description
• How to Do Push Ups
• Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Push Ups
• Tips for Doing Push Ups
• Push Up Variations for Different Fitness Levels
• FAQs About Push Ups
• Pros and Cons of Doing Push Ups

Description

Push ups are a popular bodyweight exercise that many people use to strengthen their upper body, including the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles. But are push ups a resistance exercise? The answer is yes, push ups are a form of resistance exercise because they use your own body weight as resistance to build strength and muscle endurance.

How to Do Push Ups

Push ups can be done anywhere, as they require no equipment. To perform a push up, follow these steps:

1. Start in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart and your feet hip-width apart.
2. Lower your body towards the ground by bending your elbows until your chest touches the floor.
3. Push yourself back up to the starting position by straightening your arms.
4. Repeat for the desired number of reps.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Push Ups

Here is a more detailed guide to performing push ups:

1. Start in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart and your feet hip-width apart.
2. Engage your core muscles by pulling your belly button towards your spine. This will help to stabilize your spine and prevent your lower back from sagging.
3. Lower your body towards the ground by bending your elbows. Keep your elbows close to your body and lower yourself until your chest touches the ground.
4. Push yourself back up to the starting position by straightening your arms. Keep your elbows slightly bent at the top of the movement to prevent locking them out.
5. Repeat the movement for the desired number of reps.

Tips for Doing Push Ups

Here are some tips to help you perform push ups safely and effectively:

• Keep your body in a straight line from your head to your heels throughout the movement.
• Engage your core muscles to stabilize your spine.
• Keep your elbows close to your body to focus on your chest and triceps muscles.
• Lower your body until your chest touches the ground for a full range of motion.
• Exhale as you push yourself back up to the starting position.
• Take breaks as needed and progress to more challenging variations as you get stronger.

Push Up Variations for Different Fitness Levels

There are many variations of push ups that you can do to challenge your muscles and progress your workout. Here are some push up variations for different fitness levels:

• Beginner: Wall push ups, knee push ups
• Intermediate: Regular push ups, push ups with feet elevated on a bench or step
• Advanced: One-arm push ups, plyometric push ups

FAQs About Push Ups

Here are some frequently asked questions about push ups:

1. How many push ups should I do?

The number of push ups you should do depends on your fitness level and goals. Start with a number that challenges you but that you can do with proper form. Gradually increase the number of reps as you get stronger.

2. Are push ups good for building muscle?

Yes, push ups are a great exercise for building strength and muscle endurance in the upper body, including the chest, shoulders, and triceps.

3. Can push ups help me lose weight?

Push ups can help you burn calories and build muscle, which can aid in weight loss. However, they should be combined with a healthy diet and other forms of exercise for best results.

Pros and Cons of Doing Push Ups

Pros:

• Can be done anywhere, no equipment required
• Targets multiple muscle groups in the upper body and core
• Can be modified for different fitness levels
• Improves strength and muscle endurance

Cons:

• May be difficult for beginners or those with shoulder or wrist injuries
• May not be as effective for building muscle size compared to weight lifting
• May get repetitive and boring over time