Military Push-Ups are a variation of the traditional push-up that places a greater emphasis on the triceps, shoulders, and chest, while also engaging the core for stability. This exercise is often used in military training because it builds upper body strength and muscular endurance, focusing on strict form and controlled movement.
How to Perform:
- Start in a high plank position with your hands placed directly under your shoulders, slightly closer together than in a standard push-up. Your feet should be together, and your body should form a straight line from head to heels.
- Engage your core by pulling your belly button towards your spine, keeping your body straight and your glutes tight throughout the exercise.
- Begin the push-up by bending your elbows and lowering your chest towards the ground. Keep your elbows tucked close to your sides, aiming to keep them at about a 45-degree angle from your torso or even closer, depending on your shoulder mobility.
- Lower yourself until your chest is just above the ground, maintaining a straight body line and ensuring that your core remains engaged.
- Push through your palms to straighten your arms and return to the starting position, fully extending your elbows at the top.
- Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions, focusing on maintaining strict form and control throughout.
Tips:
- Keep your body straight and avoid letting your hips sag or rise during the exercise.
- Maintain a steady breathing pattern, inhaling as you lower your body and exhaling as you push back up.
- Focus on keeping your elbows close to your body to maximize triceps engagement and maintain proper form.
- Start with 2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions, gradually increasing the number of reps as your upper body strength improves.
Military Push-Ups are an excellent exercise for building upper body strength, particularly in the triceps and shoulders. They are a great addition to any workout routine, especially for those looking to increase muscular endurance and perform push-ups with perfect form. This exercise also helps develop the core, contributing to overall stability and strength.