Push-up
Push-Ups are one of the most commonly prescribed upper body exercises as they can be performed anywhere with no need for any exercise equipment.
However because of this many people perform push-ups on their own, with no supervision and may be unaware of any technique mistakes they may be making, reducing the effectiveness and safety of the exercise.
1. Dropping The Lower Back and Head Forward
When performing a push-up it is important to use your trunk and neck stabilising muscles to maintain a straight line through your body. If you don’t do this, you will place extra pressure on the lower back and neck which can result in pain and injury.
2. Sticking the Backside in the Air
Some people will cheat on this exercise by keeping their backside up in the air as they go down into the push-up. A straight line should be maintained through the body, throughout the movement. If you are unable to do this, reduce the difficulty of the exercise by performing it from your knees rather than toes or reducing the depth of your push-up to the point where you are able to maintain good technique and control
3. Hunching Shoulders and Neck
People with poor strength in the stabilising muscles around the shoulder blades will tend to shrug their shoulders up towards their ears as they perform the movement. To avoid this keep your hands right under your shoulders and think about keeping your shoulders down as you go through the push-up.
For more information check out our Workout Wednesday video on “The Perfect Push- Up”
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