Many of us hated them in gym class. The push-up won’t make anyone’s list of the most enjoyable physical activities … unless you’re a Marine Corps drill instructor. Recruits, no doubt, would prefer a nice walk in the park.
Your heart, however, wants you to drop to the deck and give it 40.
Harvard researchers recently published a study showing that men who could complete at least 40 push-ups had a 96% lower risk of adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart failure, over a decade of follow-up.
The study tracked 1,100 male firefighters in Indiana. So, researchers caution that they cannot say with certainty that the benefit applies to women, older adults or those who are sedentary.
Exercises resembling the modern push-up have been around for centuries. Ancient Greek and Roman warriors used them to strengthen themselves for battle. Jack LaLanne, founder of the modern fitness movement, set a world record in 1956 with 1,033 push-ups finished in 23 minutes. He lived to age 96. And even then, it was pneumonia that ended his life, not his ticker.
The average age of the Indiana firefighters was 40.
The more push-ups they did, the better their hearts fared over the next 10 years. Those who could complete just 21 to 30 push-ups, for example, still had a 75% lower risk of cardiovascular events.
Scientists believe the push-up does more than build thick biceps. It also reflects whole-body health and the cardiovascular system’s ability to sustain effort.
The study does not show cause and effect. This is an association, so keep that in mind if you get the urge to show off to friends at a party. And take it easy.
You’re likely no Jack LaLanne.