What muscles do Push ups work are a versatile and effective exercise that has stood the test of time. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or a beginner looking to improve overall strength, push-ups should be a staple in your workout routine. But have you ever wondered which muscles are engaged during this simple yet powerful exercise? Let's dive into the anatomy of push-ups and discover the muscle groups that benefit from this classic movement.
Pectoral Muscles (Chest):
Push-ups primarily target the pectoral muscles, the large muscles of the chest. As you lower your body towards the ground and push back up, these muscles contract, helping to sculpt and strengthen the chest.
Deltoids (Shoulders):
Your shoulder muscles, known as deltoids, play a crucial role in the execution of push-ups. They assist in the movement by stabilizing your arms and controlling the descent and ascent phases of the exercise.
Triceps Brachii (Arms):
The triceps brachii, located at the back of your arms, are heavily engaged during the pushing phase of the exercise. As you extend your arms and push your body away from the ground, these muscles contract to provide the necessary force.
Serratus Anterior (Underarms and Ribcage):
The serratus anterior, located along the sides of your ribcage, is activated as you protract and retract your shoulder blades during push-ups. This engagement contributes to overall shoulder stability and strength.
Abdominals (Core):
To maintain a straight and rigid body position, your abdominal muscles must work in conjunction with your lower back muscles. Push-ups effectively engage the core, helping to improve overall stability and promote a strong midsection.
Quadriceps (Legs):
While push-ups primarily focus on the upper body, your quadriceps, the muscles at the front of your thighs, are also engaged to a lesser extent. They help to keep your lower body aligned and provide stability during the exercise.