Pushup Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pushup
[ˈpʊʃˌʌp ]
Definition
exercise movement
A pushup is a physical exercise that involves raising and lowering the body using the arms while in a prone position. It primarily targets the chest, shoulders, and triceps while also engaging the core muscles. Pushups can be performed in various variations, such as standard, wide-grip, and incline pushups, allowing individuals to modify the difficulty level. This exercise can be done anywhere and requires no equipment, making it popular for both beginners and advanced athletes.
Synonyms
bodyweight exercise, chest press, press-up.
Examples of usage
- He does 50 pushups every morning.
- Pushups help build upper body strength.
- She struggled to complete her first pushup.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Pushups have roots in early strength training, evolving from exercises praised in ancient cultures.
- The name 'pushup' appeared in fitness texts around the late 19th century, but similar movements existed long before.
- Military training incorporated pushups as a way to build strength and endurance since the early 20th century.
Fitness
- This exercise primarily strengthens the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles.
- Variations, like clapping pushups or one-handed pushups, challenge different muscle groups and increase difficulty.
- Regular practice can improve overall body conditioning and enhance upper body strength significantly.
Cultural Significance
- Pushups are often used in fitness challenges and competitions, showcasing physical strength and endurance.
- In popular culture, movies and TV shows frequently include pushups to represent tough training or military discipline.
- Celebrities and athletes use pushups in their workouts, emphasizing their effectiveness and simplicity.
Psychology
- Doing pushups can boost mood and reduce feelings of stress by releasing endorphins in the body.
- Establishing a routine of physical exercise like pushups helps develop discipline and motivation.
- Research shows that quality workouts lead to improved mental clarity and cognitive function.
Training Techniques
- Common mistakes include improper hand placement and not keeping the body straight, which can reduce effectiveness.
- Incorporating breathing techniques, like exhaling while pushing up, can enhance performance and endurance.
- Many trainers suggest starting on knees for beginners, making it easier to build strength before progressing to standard pushups.
Origin of 'pushup'
The term 'pushup' derives from the action of 'pushing up' the body during the exercise. The first recorded use of the word in this context appeared in the early 20th century, though the exercise itself can be traced back much further. Variations of pushups were practiced by soldiers and athletes in ancient civilizations, including ancient Greece and Rome. The popularity of pushups surged in the 20th century, especially in the fitness movements of the 1960s and 1970s, where they became a staple exercise for building strength and endurance. The pushup has remained a fundamental component of physical fitness and is often included in workout routines and fitness assessments throughout the world.