How to do pushups with optimal technique

http://PhysicalLiving.com

Fitness Coach, John Sifferman, teaches you how to do pushups with optimal technique for better performance, more results, and less injuries.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwN4BDo0JFY

Category:

Sports

Tags:

• pushup technique
• how to do pushups
• pushup form

[spadgerbadger]

Excellent vids on form for both pullups and pushups. The only question I have is about locking elbows. I've done a fair bit of research and people recommend both not locking and locking. I am mainly concerned about tennis elbow / tendonitis, as I've heard people say that locking puts more strain on your joints, and many sources list it as a 'common mistake' - can you clarify this or recommend some sources to read more about it? Thanks, and keep up the good work.

[johnsifferman]

@spadgerbadger When it comes to the pushup exercise, two things are known to contribute to elbow tendinitis: repeatedly snapping the elbows into locked position, and not allowing the elbows to lock at all. The goal should be to achieve full range of motion without a forceful over-extension. If you don't train the full ROM, then you run the risk of scar tissue developing around the joint, and joint calcification developing in the joint.

[johnsifferman]

@johnsifferman but saying that one should not lock the elbows during exercise is like saying we shouldn't lock our knees either, and that's generally accepted as ludicrous (as it should be).

[mitsk2002]

Great vid, dude. Question: you say to keep your feet hip-width apart, yet for the majority of this vid (including your opening demonstration), your feet are together. So which is the correct width for feet?

[johnsifferman]

@mitsk2002 I knew someone would catch that eventually :) It's just a habit I picked up from years of military-style pushups. The optimal form is with feet placed hip-width apart because it provides a straight cylinder for leg drive to connect to your core activation. Although, feet together doesn't make much of an impact in the big picture, and is not nearly as critical as proper hand placement, elbow tracking, shoulder stabilization, etc.

[mitsk2002]

@johnsifferman

Ah, thanks for clarifying, John.

I Stumbled Upon your site and I find your content so easy to follow and very educational. Can't wait to watch more of your vids and read more of your articles! Thank you very much for providing such great material to everyone!

[johnsifferman]

@mitsk2002 It's my pleasure!

[VonTyrant]

Thank you, I've seen a lot of instructions for push ups before but this has been the most helpful.

[Framboos5000]

Very good video John!

What's ur opinion on triangle pushups and how to do them properly?

[thecaffination]

after watching this, I have been doing these wrong for years apparently. I'm currently recovering from shoulder surgery, and can't wait to get the all clear to try the right way, thanks for the clear guide!