"Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body,
 it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity." -John F. Kennedy

Pushup Variations For Maximizing Your Workout
Considered by many to be one of the best exercises of all time, the pushup is also one of the most used exercises of all time. Martial arts, the military, schools from elementary to college all use pushups regularly in their fitness routines.  Pushups involve an number of muscle groups including your arms, chest and shoulders and back. There are a couple of variations on the pushup that require little or no extra equipment and give it a boost to make it an even more effective exercise.


The standard push involves lying face down on the floor and placing your hands and arms perpendicular to your body, inline with your shoulders  at 3 and 9 o’clock. Your elbows are away from your body, hands spread somewhat, like you are doing a bench press with the floor. 


A slight variation on the standard pushup is done by shifting and tucking your elbows into your body so that it puts more load on your chest. This is similar to an incline bench press and works the chest more and the shoulders.


Either of the above to positions can be done with your hands on a set of dumb bells. Grabbing the dumbbell bar while they rest horizontal to your body helps to take the strain off of your wrists. Taller dumbbells allow you to dip a little lower as well increasing the degree of strength required.


Lastly inclined pushups are a great way to bump things either up or down, depending on your needs. Inclined pushups are great for those who don’t yet have the strength to do pushups using any of the above styles. For an inclined pushup lean on a stable lower table or bench and do as you would for a standard pushup but on an angle. To increase things a notch do the opposite. Put your feet on a bench, (strong) coffee table, chair or bed and do either the standard or elbows tucked in style for a good workout.

 
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