What To Know
- Push ups with bars are generally more challenging than regular push ups due to the increased range of motion and the reduced wrist support.
- Compared to push ups with bars, regular push ups have a shorter range of motion, which may limit the development of chest flexibility and mobility.
- If you’re new to push ups, start with regular push ups and gradually progress to push ups with bars as you get stronger.
Push ups are a fundamental bodyweight exercise that targets multiple muscle groups, including the chest, triceps, and shoulders. While regular push ups are a popular option, many fitness enthusiasts also incorporate push ups with bars into their routines. But which variation is better for you? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the differences between push ups with bars vs. regular push ups, exploring their benefits, drawbacks, and which one might be more suitable for your fitness goals.
Benefits of Push Ups with Bars
1. Increased Range of Motion:
Push up bars elevate your hands, allowing for a deeper descent and a greater range of motion. This increased stretch can help improve flexibility and mobility in the chest and shoulders.
2. Reduced Wrist Strain:
Regular push ups put a lot of pressure on the wrists, which can lead to discomfort or injury. Push up bars distribute the weight more evenly, reducing strain on the wrists and making the exercise more comfortable.
3. Isolation of Chest Muscles:
Due to the elevated hand position, push ups with bars emphasize the chest muscles more than regular push ups. This can be beneficial for individuals looking to build a stronger and more defined chest.
Drawbacks of Push Ups with Bars
1. Increased Difficulty:
Push ups with bars are generally more challenging than regular push ups due to the increased range of motion and the reduced wrist support. This can make them unsuitable for beginners or individuals with limited upper body strength.
2. Accessibility:
Push up bars require additional equipment, which may not always be readily available. This can limit their use in certain situations, such as outdoor workouts or travel.
Benefits of Regular Push Ups
1. Simplicity and Accessibility:
Regular push ups are extremely simple to perform and do not require any additional equipment, making them accessible to anyone, anywhere.
2. Versatility:
Push ups can be modified to suit different fitness levels and goals. By varying the hand position or elevating the feet, you can adjust the difficulty and target different muscle groups.
3. Full-Body Workout:
Regular push ups engage not only the chest, triceps, and shoulders but also the core and legs. This makes them an efficient and effective full-body exercise.
Drawbacks of Regular Push Ups
1. Wrist Strain:
As mentioned earlier, regular push ups can put strain on the wrists, which can be uncomfortable or even painful for some individuals.
2. Limited Range of Motion:
Compared to push ups with bars, regular push ups have a shorter range of motion, which may limit the development of chest flexibility and mobility.
Which Variation is Better?
The choice between push ups with bars vs. regular push ups depends on your individual fitness goals and abilities.
Push ups with bars are recommended for:
- Individuals looking to increase chest muscle development
- Those with strong wrists and good upper body strength
- Those seeking to improve flexibility and mobility
Regular push ups are recommended for:
- Beginners or individuals with limited upper body strength
- Those who want a simple and accessible full-body exercise
- Those with wrist discomfort or injuries
The Bottom Line: Choosing the Right Variation
Ultimately, the best variation for you is the one that you can perform safely and effectively. If you’re new to push ups, start with regular push ups and gradually progress to push ups with bars as you get stronger. If you experience wrist discomfort, consider using push up bars to reduce strain. Remember to listen to your body and modify the exercise as needed to suit your individual needs.
Common Questions and Answers
1. Can push ups with bars help me build bigger chest muscles?
Yes, push ups with bars emphasize the chest muscles more than regular push ups, making them a good choice for chest development.
2. Are push ups with bars harder than regular push ups?
Yes, push ups with bars are generally more challenging due to the increased range of motion and reduced wrist support.
3. Can I do push ups with bars every day?
While push ups with bars are a great exercise, it’s not recommended to do them every day to allow your muscles to recover and prevent overuse injuries.
4. How many push ups with bars should I do?
The number of push ups with bars you should do depends on your fitness level. Start with a manageable number and gradually increase as you get stronger.
5. What are some variations of regular push ups?
Regular push ups can be modified by changing the hand position (e.g., wide, narrow, diamond) or elevating the feet to increase difficulty and target different muscle groups.
