PUSH-UP POWER

Q: Will doing push-ups have the same muscle building/toning as lifting weights? — A.J., New York
A: Yes, absolutely! Doing a proper set of push-ups has the same results for building and toning the muscles in the upper body as lifting weights does. Push-ups are a great exercise for the upper body, especially if you don’t have weights or are not able to visit a gym. I recommend doing them in sets and trying to work your way up to three to five sets of 15 to 20 reps each. To perform a correct push-up, keep your body as flat as possible with your hands in line with your shoulders. Perform each rep slowly while always maintaining motion. Lower your body to the point of feeling a slight stretch and back up until your arms are almost fully extended, keeping a slight bend to the elbow. It is not necessary to touch your face and body to the floor.