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Perfect Pushup Vs. Regular Pushup
Even a basic exercise like the pushup can benefit from an upgrade. Regular pushups do a decent job of activating most of the upper body, though they place some stress on the wrist. But the Perfect Pushup activates the desired muscles even further, simultaneously removing much of the strain on the joints.
How They Compare
The American Council on Exercise conducted a study using surface electroymyographic analysis for three variations of the pushup: wide, narrow and standard stance. They found the chest, triceps and front part of the shoulders were activated more with the Perfect Pushup than with regular pushups, but only during the wide and standard stances. The narrow stance did not change muscular activation, and the back muscles were utilized with the same efficacy for both. The pivoting handles of the Perfect Pushup do not allow for variations like plyometric or dive-bomb pushups, however.
Tips and Safety
Always observe proper form when doing a pushup, with equipment or without. Though the Perfect Pushup relieves some stress on the wrists, it can prevent a neutral wrist position. If you are new to pushups, the dynamic nature of the device could increase your chances of injury. Try regular pushups first, and when you master those, move on to the Perfect Pushup.
Explore In Depth
References
- ACE Fitness: The Perfect Pushup
- Exercise Prescription on the Internet: Push-up
- Fitness Magazine: Dive-Bomber Push-Up
- American Council on Exercise. 5 compound exercises you should add to your workout. February 2015.
- American Council on Exercise. Push-up.
- National Academy of Sports Medicine. Push the push-up.
Resources
Writer Bio
Jeremie Guy has been a certified personal trainer since 2011, but has been active in gyms and athletics since he could walk. His articles have appeared on a number of websites, and he ghostwrites part time. During the summer of 2013 he rode a bicycle from Providence, R.I., to Seattle, Wa.