Are Push Ups Push Or Pull

Push ups are a popular exercise that is often used to build strength and endurance in the upper body. However, there has been some confusion as to whether push ups are a push or pull exercise. In this article, we will explore the mechanics of push ups and determine whether they are a push or pull exercise.

Description

Push ups are a bodyweight exercise that targets the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles. To perform a push up, you start in a plank position with your hands placed slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Then, you lower your body towards the ground by bending your elbows, keeping your back straight and core engaged. Finally, you push your body back up to the starting position by extending your arms.

How to Perform a Push Up

Here are the steps to perform a push up:

1. Assume a plank position with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
2. Keep your back straight and your core engaged.
3. Bend your elbows and lower your body towards the ground.
4. Stop when your chest is a few inches away from the ground.
5. Push your body back up to the starting position by extending your arms.

Tips for Performing Push Ups

Here are some tips to help you perform push ups properly:

• Keep your elbows close to your body.
• Engage your core muscles to maintain proper form.
• Breathe in as you lower your body and breathe out as you push back up.
• If you are a beginner, start with modified push ups by placing your knees on the ground.

Solution to the Confusion

So, are push ups a push or pull exercise? The answer is that push ups are a push exercise. This is because the primary movement involved in push ups is pushing your body away from the ground by extending your arms. While your chest muscles are contracting, they are not pulling your body towards the ground. Therefore, push ups are considered a push exercise.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about push ups:

1. Can push ups be modified?

Yes, push ups can be modified to suit different fitness levels. For example, beginners can start with modified push ups by placing their knees on the ground. Advanced athletes can add weight or perform variations such as diamond push ups or one-arm push ups.

2. How many push ups should I do?

It depends on your fitness level and goals. If you are a beginner, start with a small number of reps and gradually increase over time. Aim to perform at least 10-15 reps in a set, and aim to complete 2-3 sets per workout. You can also perform push ups as part of a circuit or superset to increase the intensity.

Pros and Cons of Push Ups

Here are some pros and cons of push ups:

Pros:

• Require no equipment
• Can be modified for different fitness levels
• Target multiple muscle groups
• Can be done anywhere

Cons:

• May be difficult for beginners
• Can put strain on the wrists
• May not be as effective for building mass as weightlifting exercises

In conclusion, push ups are a push exercise that targets the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles. They can be modified for different fitness levels and are a convenient exercise that requires no equipment. However, they may be difficult for beginners and can put strain on the wrists. Overall, push ups are a great exercise to add to your fitness routine to build strength and endurance in the upper body.