Exercise & Fitness

Modify your push-ups to meet your fitness level

The classic push-up remains one of the best full-body exercises. Here are a few different ways to do them.

By , Former Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch
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A senior man does push-ups in his home on a yoga mat.

Fitness fads come and go, but the push-up lives on. The classic old-school exercise is still celebrated for its no-equipment-needed simplicity. Using just your body weight, each rep strengthens the arm, shoulder, and chest muscles, as well as the core, hips, and legs.

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About the Author

photo of Matthew Solan

Matthew Solan, Former Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch

Matthew Solan is the former executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical … See Full Bio
View all posts by Matthew Solan

About the Reviewer

photo of Edward Phillips, MD

Edward Phillips, MD, Contributor

Dr. Edward M. Phillips is an assistant professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Harvard Medical School, and the founder and director of the Institute of Lifestyle Medicine at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston. He’d like … See Full Bio
View all posts by Edward Phillips, MD
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