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Push-Up

PREPARATION DRILL, EXERCISE 10: PUSH-UP

Purpose: This exercise strengthens the muscles of the chest, shoulders, arms, and trunk (Figure 6-79).

Starting Position: Front leaning rest position.

Cadence: MODERATE

Count:

  1. Bend the elbows, lowering the body until the upper arms are parallel with the ground.
  2. Return to the starting position.
  3. Repeat count 1.
  4. Return to the starting position.
Figure 6-79. Push-up

Check Points:

  • The hands are directly below the shoulders with fingers spread (middle fingers point straight ahead).
  • On counts 1 and 3 the upper arms stay close to the trunk, elbows pointing rearward.
  • On counts 2 and 4 the elbows straighten, but do not lock.
  • The trunk should not sag. To prevent this, tighten the abdominal muscles while in the starting position and maintain this contraction throughout the exercise.

Precautions: N/A

Variation: Soldiers should assume the six-point stance on their knees when unable to perform repetitions correctly to cadence (Figure 6-80).

Figure 6-80. Push-up in the 6-point stance
George N.