Push ups are one of the most common exercises for building upper body strength, and one of the easiest because they don’t require any equipment or previous training. There are different types of push ups, with each variation working a different part of your arms and shoulders. Combining a number of different variations of push ups is a great way to build a lot of upper body strength.
Normal Push Ups
Normal push ups are fairly easy to perform, but require proper technique in order to avoid lower back or shoulder injury. Place your hands out at just past shoulder width, and keep your elbows at a 45 degree angle from your body to keep the strain off of your shoulders. Have your legs straight back, with your heels and toes together, and make sure that your back is straight. Keep your head straight, so that it forms a straight line with the rest of your spine. Let your chest drop until you are about two inches off of the ground, and then push yourself upwards.