Why are push-ups so much harder than chest/bench presses??!
Question: I do an exercise class and lift more than any of the other women in all areas of lifting. When it comes to the chest press I do 35lbs (alright folks, I know I'm not a bodybuilder---just a normal gal!!). BUT! When it comes time to do pushups I can only do like 3 on my toes. The rest I have to do the "girly way" while some others in the class who lift less than I do on chest presses, can continue on up on their toes. Why is this? Do pushups work an entirely different area then chest/bench presses??
It's not that I'm concerned with "competeing" with others. I just am confused why their push-ups seem easier for them. Do I need to strengthen something different to do them?
I'm wondering if I have a weakness somewhere that I need to strengthen to do "real" push-ups. Does this make sense??
Answers: I do an exercise class and lift more than any of the other women in all areas of lifting. When it comes to the chest press I do 35lbs (alright folks, I know I'm not a bodybuilder---just a normal gal!!). BUT! When it comes time to do pushups I can only do like 3 on my toes. The rest I have to do the "girly way" while some others in the class who lift less than I do on chest presses, can continue on up on their toes. Why is this? Do pushups work an entirely different area then chest/bench presses??
It's not that I'm concerned with "competeing" with others. I just am confused why their push-ups seem easier for them. Do I need to strengthen something different to do them?
I'm wondering if I have a weakness somewhere that I need to strengthen to do "real" push-ups. Does this make sense??
A bench press uses two major muscles per side (with some smaller ones), the pectoral and the tricep.
In a bench press scenario the pectoral takes on most of the load and the tricep is used to stabilise.
In a push-up the tricep takes on most of the load, with the pectoral and bicep stabilising.
So in short your answer is that the main muscle changes in both exercises, contrary to popular belief. There is a good chance the others in your class have larger triceps than yourself, this is what allows them to do more push-ups.
Focus on some tricep orientated exercises and you'll find you can do more and more in no time.
b/c you weigh more than 35lbs. a push up is pushing all your weight off the ground. not just 35lbs.
push ups are a totally upper body work out..back and chest plus arms
You need core strength when doing push up's which means you need to work on strengthening your abdominals and your lower back. Once those are stronger you will have a much easier time holding your whole body in alignment.
When you do a push-up, you're pressing your entire body weight up from the floor, not just 35 lbs. That's why it's harder.
A great way to be able to do more of the "big girl" push-ups is to start out by doing them backwards. Start out in the up position and veeeery slowly lower yourself to the ground. Once you've built up muscle strength and tolerance that way, you should be able to start doing more 'real' push-ups with ease!
Good luck!!