Why are push-ups a good exercise?

Closing the kinetic chain by putting your hand on the floor promotes co-contraction of the rotator cuff.  This can improve glenohumeral stabilization.

Because the scapula is free to move, you must rely on active stabilization of the scapula.  The greater your scapular stability, the greater your potential glenhumeral stability.

The push-up requires active stabilization of the trunk.  Weak trunk musculature is a common reason why some have difficulty completing an effective push-up.

There’s no equipment required…contrary to what some commercials may say.

They’re easy to unload for those lacking sufficient strength to do them on the floor.  Simply “raise the floor” by placing the hands on a sturdy bench, a barbell secured in a rack, or even a wall for deconditioned exercisers.

There are infinite variations that can be done isometrically, explosively, loaded with weighted vests, chains, bands, off-set hands, narrow hand spacing, one hand, on a medicine ball, on two medicine balls….you get the point.

Bill

P.S.  You can now get NSCA CEU credits for your purchase of Inside-Out: The Ultimate Upper Body Warm-up.  Contact Mike Robertson at info@robertsontrainingsystems.com