Push ups are one of the most popular and effective exercises for building upper body strength. While they are commonly associated with chest and triceps development, push ups can also work the shoulders when executed properly. In this article, we will explore various types of push ups that target the shoulders.
Standard Push Up
The standard push up is a great exercise for overall upper body strength and can work the shoulders if done correctly. To properly engage the shoulders during a push up, focus on keeping the shoulder blades down and back, and maintain a straight line from your head to your heels. This will ensure that you are not only engaging your chest and triceps, but also your shoulders.
Close Grip Push Up
The close grip push up is a variation of the standard push up that places more emphasis on the triceps and shoulders. To perform a close grip push up, bring your hands closer together, so that they are directly under your shoulders. This will place more stress on your triceps and shoulders, making it a great exercise for building upper body strength.
Pike Push Up
The pike push up is a challenging exercise that primarily targets the shoulders. To perform a pike push up, start in a downward dog position, with your hands and feet on the ground and your hips up in the air. From there, lower your head towards the ground, keeping your elbows close to your body. This exercise is great for building shoulder strength and stability.
Archer Push Up
The archer push up is a challenging variation of the standard push up that requires a great deal of shoulder stability and strength. To perform an archer push up, start in a standard push up position, but with one hand placed slightly wider than the other. Lower your body towards the hand that is closer to your body, while keeping the other arm straight. This exercise is great for building shoulder strength and stability, as well as improving overall upper body strength.
Conclusion
Push ups are a great exercise for building upper body strength, and can work the shoulders if done correctly. By incorporating various types of push ups into your workout routine, you can target different areas of the upper body and achieve a well-rounded physique. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced athlete, push ups are a versatile and effective exercise that should be a staple in any fitness program.