What Part of the Body Do Push Ups Work?

Overview

When you do push ups, you work your entire body. Unlike isolation moves that work a single body part, compound moves like push ups engage many muscles. You might think push ups work your chest only. Not so. Push ups give you a comprehensive workout. Besides your chest, they engage your shoulders, triceps and other muscles.

Pectorals

Guys want a well-built chest. It sends a message they're strong, fit and healthy. The push up is a proven, time-tested exercise that develops the pectorals. Bounded by the clavicle, upper arms and first six ribs, the pectoralis major has two heads. The clavicular head forms your upper pec; the sternal head forms your larger, lower pec. While fun to show off, your pecs play vital roles in shoulder and scapula movements during push ups.

Deltoids

In this exercise, your deltoid works with your pecs to lift and lower your body. The anterior, or front, deltoid assists with shoulder flexion and internal rotation, Sportsinjuryclinic.com explains. This muscle begins at your collar bone and inserts into your upper arm. Your delts and pecs work together; pushups build chest and shoulder strength.

Triceps

Located on the back upper arm, the triceps brachii has three heads--long, lateral and medial--that run from your shoulder blade down your humerus. During a push up, your triceps bend the elbow and lengthen your arms. You repeat this action so many times your triceps get stronger after many push ups.

Assistants

Your pecs, delts and triceps play the title roles, but other muscles form a supporting cast during push ups. Your back and core, for instance, stabilize your trunk. Your biceps and forearms also add support. While push ups primarily target your upper torso, your lower body gets a workout since you lower and raise your legs.

Suggestions

Pushups develop your upper body, but they're not for everyone. If you're weak or have injuries, modify your push ups. Push off a wall or elevated area, not the ground. If the only push up you learned was in gym class, you should know that other options exist. You can try dozens of push-up styles with different grips and leg positions. Consult your physician to make sure you're prepared for push ups