What are the steps to a perfect push up?
To perform a perfect push-up, follow these steps:
1. Start by placing your hands on the floor, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
2. Align your hands with your shoulders, and make sure your fingers are pointing forward.
3. Position your feet together, or slightly apart for better balance.
4. Engage your core muscles by squeezing your abs and glutes.
5. Lower your body towards the floor by bending your elbows, while maintaining a straight line from head to toe (plank position).
6. Lower until your chest is just above the ground, or as far as you can comfortably go.
7. Avoid letting your elbows flare out to the sides; instead, keep them pointing back at a 45-degree angle.
8. Push through your hands and extend your elbows, raising your body back up to the starting position.
9. Keep your body aligned and avoid sagging or arching your lower back.
10. Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions.
Remember to start with a variation or modification if you're new to push-ups, such as performing them on your knees or against a stable elevated surface, and gradually progress to a full push-up as you build strength and technique.