EXERCISE

Side Push-ups

Introduction Image

Introduction


This exercise works your shoulders, upper arms, and core muscles, building strength and improving balance.


Because it requires you to stabilize your body, side push-ups help improve your coordination and body awareness.


They're easy to add to many different workout routines, like strength training, bodyweight exercises, or even yoga.


Whether you're just starting to exercise or you're a seasoned athlete, side push-ups will give you a good workout.


To do a side push-up, start by lying on your side with your body in a straight line, supported by your forearm and feet.


Push your body upwards, keeping your body straight, then lower yourself back down slowly and controlled.


Remember to keep your core engaged throughout the exercise to maintain good posture and stability.


As you get stronger, you can try doing more repetitions or doing the exercise on an incline to make it harder.


Always listen to your body and stop if you feel any pain. If you are unsure of the correct form, consider consulting a fitness professional.


What are the benefits of side push-ups? Image

What are the benefits of side push-ups?


They work your triceps (the back of your upper arm) and biceps (the front of your upper arm), making your arms look and feel more toned.


Because you need to keep your body steady while doing a side push-up, you also use your stomach and back muscles. This helps improve your balance and makes your core stronger.


Side push-ups help make your shoulders stronger. Strong shoulders are important for good posture and can help prevent shoulder injuries.


The sideways position of this exercise makes it harder to balance, which improves your coordination and agility. This means you'll get better at controlling your body's movements.


Adding side push-ups to your workouts can improve your overall fitness and strength.


How to do side push-ups? Image

How to do side push-ups?


Arm support: Place your lower arm on the ground, directly under your shoulder. Your elbow should be in line with your shoulder, not sticking out.


Core engagement: Tighten your stomach muscles. This helps keep your body in a straight line and prevents injury. Imagine pulling your belly button towards your spine.


Lower down: Slowly bend your supporting elbow, lowering your body towards the floor. Keep your body straight – don't let your hips sag or your body twist.


Push back up: Straighten your arm, pushing yourself back up to the starting position. Use your triceps (the back of your upper arm) and shoulder muscles to do this.


Repeat and switch: Do as many as you can while keeping your body straight. When you're done, turn over and do the same on the other side.


Focus on form: It's more important to do the exercise correctly than to do many repetitions. Good form prevents injuries and makes the exercise more effective.


Common side push-up variations Image

Common side push-up variations


Push-up to Side Plank: This exercise combines a regular push-up with a side plank. You do a push-up, then move into a side plank, holding it for a moment before doing another push-up. This works your chest, shoulders, triceps, and tummy muscles. It also helps you get better at balancing and coordinating your movements.


Shoulder Tap Push-ups: After each regular push-up, lift one hand and tap your opposite shoulder. Then, do another push-up and tap the other shoulder. This is like a regular push-up but adds a balancing challenge. It works your chest, shoulders, triceps, and tummy muscles, making you stronger and improving your balance.


Close-Grip Push-ups: Put your hands closer together than you normally would for a push-up. This changes how the exercise works your muscles. It focuses more on your triceps (the back of your upper arms) and shoulders, making them stronger.


These exercises all work your arms and tummy, but they also add new ways to move and make your workouts more interesting. Try them and see which ones you like best!


Alternatives to side push-ups Image

Alternatives to side push-ups


Push-up to Side Plank: This move combines a regular push-up with a side plank. It works your chest, shoulders, triceps, and the muscles along your sides (obliques). It's great for building upper body strength and a stronger core.


Close-Grip Push-ups: Place your hands closer together than in a regular push-up. This focuses more on your triceps (the back of your upper arms), but still works your chest and shoulders. It's perfect for building stronger arms.


Suspended Push-ups: Use exercise straps to hang while doing push-ups. This makes the exercise harder because you have to balance more. It builds upper body strength and a stronger core, and is a great challenge for experienced exercisers.


These variations add excitement to your workouts and help you get stronger in different ways. Try them all and find your favorites!


Common mistakes during side push-ups Image

Common mistakes during side push-ups


Proper Arm Placement: Keep your elbow directly under your shoulder. This helps you use the right muscles and prevents injuries. Imagine a straight line from your elbow to your shoulder.


Keep Your Body Straight: Don't let your hips sag. Try to make a straight line from your head to your heels. This uses your core muscles and makes the exercise more effective.


Take Your Time: Don't rush! Slow and controlled movements help you feel the muscles working and make the exercise safer and more beneficial.


Takeaway Image

Takeaway


They work your shoulders, triceps, and chest muscles, making them more powerful.


Side push-ups help you have a stronger core.


A strong core helps with balance and makes everyday activities easier.


They improve your overall fitness.


Doing side push-ups regularly will make you stronger and more fit overall.


They're a good challenge for your body.


Start slowly and gradually increase how many you do. You'll get better over time!


Start doing side push-ups today to reach your fitness goals.


Make them a regular part of your workout plan for best results.


Disclaimer: The routines and schedules featured on our website are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical or professional advice. Individual preferences, goals, and daily routines may vary significantly. Please note that some product links within our content are affiliate links. While not all routines have been explicitly endorsed by the individuals mentioned, we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information we provide.

Disclaimer: BalancedRoutine(BR) does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a replacement for medical advice. Always consult a qualified health or mental health professional with any questions or concerns about your mental health.