Push-ups are good for building triceps, pectoral muscles, and shoulders; basically, upper body strength. When it is done properly, it can actually strengthen your lower back and core muscles. But some of us struggle with push-ups and can’t even do one proper rep. Here are some reasons as to why you might be finding it difficult.
1.You’re a woman
We’re not being sexist but it’s a scientific fact that if you’re a woman then it’s more challenging for you to do push-ups as compared to men. Referring to findings by the International Journal of Exercise Science, women, on average, have just 50 per cent of the upper-body strength of men simply because they have smaller muscle fibers. Do not be discouraged by this fact, with proper training and determination you can do push-ups.
2. Your form is off
Having poor form does not just make push-ups ineffective; you will also run the risk of injuring yourself. Pay attention to the position of your elbows, hands and hips when doing a push-up. Make sure your hands are positioned slightly wider than your shoulders and elbows bent at a 45-degree angle. Your core should be feeling like as if you’re pulling your belly button towards your spine.
3. You are not breathing properly
Most people simply forget to breathe whenever they are working
out. Breathe! Always exhale on the hardest part.
4. You refuse to admit that you’re a beginner
There are a variety of push-ups for beginners like wall push-ups, seated push-ups and kneeling push-ups. Don’t be shy to give any of these push-up variations a try. It will help your body to get started.
5.You are not in control of your body
Stop thinking about the push. You need to control your
movement while pushing yourself up. Remember that whenever you are lowering
yourself, you are building eccentric strength, which will help you to do
push-ups.
