How to Do a Proper Push Up

The great thing about push-ups is that they use your body weight as resistance, so you don't have to use equipment. The're a great way to tone the upper body if they are done correctly. Here are two examples of the proper push-up. As your fitness level increases, you can add more challenge by doing incline push ups. Good luck.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Military Push Ups

1. Place your toes and hands on the floor, making sure your back and arms are straight. Keep your hands slightly more than shoulder-width apart and tighten your abdominal muscles.
2. Inhale as you lower yourself to the floor, stopping as your elbows reach a 90-degree bend. Keep your body from touching the floor.
3. Exhale and push yourself away from the floor. Don't lock your elbows, and don't bend your back.
4. Repeat several sets.

Modified Push Up

5. Place your hands and knees on the floor. Keeping your gluts and abs tight, your back should be in one diagonal line with your head and neck, and your feet should be lifted from the floor.
6. Inhale as you lower yourself to the floor, stopping as your elbows reach a 90-degree bend. Keep your body from touching the floor.
7. Exhale and push yourself away from the floor. Don't lock your elbows, and don't bend your back.
8. Repeat several sets.

Tips & Warnings

• To make your workout more challenging, place your hands on a chair or bench for an incline push up.