EXERCISE OF THE WEEK: PUSH-UP PLUS!
Instructions: Begin in a plank position with shoulders stacked above wrist and spine straight. Engage the core muscles and slowly lower yourself as close as you can to the floor without touching as you breathe out. As you breathe out, push up back to the starting position then push through the fully extended arms to lift the upper back even further toward the ceiling. Repeat 10-15 times, then rest. Try for 2-3 sets. Modifications include performing the exercise on the knees rather than the feet or on a counter top to limit the load on the trunk and arms.
The push up plus is perfect for anyone looking to work on gaining strength in the arms and gaining stability in the trunk and arms. The extra push engages the serratus anterior muscle, which is essential for shoulder stability with daily tasks like lifting and carrying.
If you feel instability in your shoulders or back, or would like to work on gaining strength or stability to improve your ability to perform your daily tasks, call Life Changes Physical Therapy today! Our goal is to help you function better through all of life’s changes!