INTRODUCTION

We will examine the standard push-up, arms placed directly under the shoulders; and the diamond push-up, hands form a diamond directly under the chest bone. While examining these movements, we will answer: (1) What is the difference in the angle between the arm and forearm when executing these types of push-ups? (2) Which exercise is a more effective workout for toning specific muscles? According to Donkers et al., the axial force on elbow joints when performing push-ups varies with altered hand position (1992). This suggests that the different arm positions in each push-up will effect the intensity of the overload for a given muscle, for example, the triceps or pectoralis major. Consequently, it is important to compare these two push-up styles because arm positioning is a dominant factor in the effectiveness of the workout.

In this study, we will examine the differences in the motions and angles formed between the forearm and arm when performing two styles of push-ups. To answer our questions proposed above, our subject will execute a standard and diamond push-up in order to analyze the specific motion of each push-up. Data collecting will be done by using four joint markers, which will be positioned on the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, the acromion process, the styloid process of the ulna, and on the seventh cervical vertebrea. These markers will enable us to calculate the change in the angle between the arm and forearm when carrying out each push-up. We will use these angle measurements to compare the two styles of push-ups and determine which style of push-up provides the most effective workout for the trained individual.