Dynamic and electromyographical analysis in variants of push-up exercise

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science

Background:

• Push-up exercises are a common strength training activity.
• Variations in push-up execution may alter biomechanical demands and muscle engagement.
• Understanding these modifications is crucial for effective exercise prescription and injury prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify dynamic and muscular modifications across various push-up exercise variants (EV).
• To compare ground-reaction forces and muscle activity (triceps, pectoralis major) between different push-up positions.

Main Methods:

• Eight healthy males performed six push-up variations: normal, abducted, adducted, posterior, anterior, and on knees.
• Ground-reaction forces were measured using a force plate.
• Surface electromyography recorded activity of the triceps and pectoralis major muscles.

Main Results:

• Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in most vertical force variables, but not in anteroposterior force or time-related variables.
• The initial load relative to body weight was lower in the on-knees variation (52.9%) compared to the normal push-up (66.4%).
• Muscle activity for both triceps and pectoralis major was reduced in the on-knees variation. The posterior variation showed increased pectoralis major activation but decreased triceps activation compared to the normal push-up.

Conclusions:

• Dynamic biomechanics and muscular activation patterns are significantly altered across different push-up exercise variants.
• Hand positioning critically influences the biomechanical and muscular challenge of the push-up exercise.
• Exercise instructions should be precise to ensure the intended training stimulus is achieved with different push-up variations.