Pushups: A Simple Test for Strength and Health
A quick and easy way to gauge overall fitness doesn’t require fancy equipment or lab tests—just a simple pushup test. According to Mayo Clinic, pushups serve as a solid indicator of muscular strength and endurance, engaging major muscle groups such as the arms, shoulders, abs, back, and legs.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsHow I thought @RobMKendall doing pushups would go verses reality. 💪🏻 pic.twitter.com/e8fnqP30nI
— CaseyDaniels (@caseydaniels317) March 5, 2025
How to Do a Proper Pushup
Start face-down on the floor, hands positioned at shoulder height, and toes tucked. Push your body up while keeping it straight and parallel to the ground. Lower yourself back down and repeat. Beginners can modify the exercise by resting on their knees.
Pushup Targets by Age
The Mayo Clinic provides benchmarks for pushup counts based on age and sex:
- 25 years old: Men – 28, Women – 20
- 35 years old: Men – 21, Women – 19
- 45 years old: Men – 16, Women – 14
- 55 years old: Men – 12, Women – 10
- 65 years old: Men – 10, Women – 10
The Benefits of Regular Exercise
A 2019 study found men who could complete pushups were 96% less likely to develop heart disease. Regular exercise also lowers the risk of cancer, dementia, and diabetes. It is recommended 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, emphasizing the importance of strength training exercises like pushups.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsThank you, President Trump. As a boy, I sat in the Oval Office where my uncle led on the issues of health and fitness. And now, six decades later, I stand with a transformational leader who fully grasps the public health crisis our great nation faces. I couldn’t be more thrilled… pic.twitter.com/jnuRksNmJ6
— Secretary Kennedy (@SecKennedy) February 14, 2025
“The ‘Make America Healthy Again’ movement, championed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has sparked nationwide discussions on public health policies and personal responsibility.” In Utah, lawmakers are pushing legislation to align with Kennedy’s vision by restricting the purchase of sugary drinks and candy with SNAP benefits, aiming to combat obesity and chronic disease.
