Push-up exercise

When performed correctly, the push-up is a useful exercise for developing strength in the muscles that push and those that stabilize the torso (core). The patient assumes a standard push-up position, with their hands below the level of their shoulders (ie, caudad) and feet about shoulder width apart. They then lower their body to the floor in a controlled fashion, and then push back up to the starting position. For additional emphasis on the scapular stabilizers, the patient pushes up as high as possible at the top of the push-up, rolling their shoulders forward (maximal scapular protraction) after the elbows are straight.