Proper Push Up Form
To do a push up properly, start in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart and your feet hip-width apart. Keep your back flat and your core engaged.
Lowering Your Body
Lower your body towards the ground by bending your elbows while keeping your back flat. Your elbows should be at a 45-degree angle to your body.
Pushing Your Body Back Up
Push your body back up to the starting position by straightening your arms. Make sure to keep your core engaged and your back flat throughout the entire movement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Arching Your Back
One common mistake people make when doing push ups is arching their back. This can put unnecessary strain on your lower back and cause injury. To avoid this, make sure to keep your core engaged and your back flat throughout the entire movement.
Letting Your Hips Sag
Another mistake is letting your hips sag towards the ground. This puts extra strain on your lower back and can also cause injury. To avoid this, keep your core engaged and your body in a straight line throughout the entire movement.
Flaring Your Elbows
Flaring your elbows out to the side can also cause injury and put unnecessary strain on your shoulders. Make sure to keep your elbows at a 45-degree angle to your body throughout the entire movement.
FAQ About How to do a Push Up Properly
Q: How many push ups should I do?
A:
The number of push ups you should do depends on your fitness level and goals. Start with a number that you can comfortably do with proper form and gradually increase as you get stronger.
Q: Can push ups help me lose weight?
A:
Push ups can help build muscle and increase your metabolism, which can aid in weight loss. However, they should be combined with a healthy diet and other forms of exercise for best results.
Q: Should I do push ups every day?
A:
It’s generally recommended to give your muscles a rest in between workouts, so doing push ups every day may not be the best idea. Aim for 2-3 times a week with rest days in between.
Conclusion
Push ups are a great exercise for building upper body strength, but it’s important to do them correctly in order to avoid injury and get the most out of your workout. Remember to keep your core engaged, your back flat, and your elbows at a 45-degree angle to your body. Start with a number of push ups that you can comfortably do with proper form and gradually increase as you get stronger.