Biomechanical analysis of the push-up exercise in university male student-athletes from different specializations: a sport-based comparative study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v75.118076Keywords:
Push-up Biomechanics, Sport Specialization, Neuromuscular Adaptation, Electromyography (EMG), Kinematic and Kinetic AnalysisAbstract
Introduction: Sport-specific training may shape the neuromuscular strategies used in fundamental movements such as the push-up.
Objective: To compare the kinematic, kinetic, and electromyographic characteristics of push-ups among athletes from gymnastics, swimming, track and field, and basketball.
Methodology: Eighty male university athletes performed standardized push-ups while motion capture, dual force platforms, and surface EMG recorded movement, force, and muscle activity. Data were analyzed using MANOVA and correlation analyses (α = 0.05).
Results: Gymnasts showed superior trunk stability and high co-activation; swimmers exhibited greater shoulder mobility but reduced core stability; and sprinters and basketball players demonstrated higher force development rates and faster concentric tempos.
Discussion: Distinct biomechanical “signatures” reflected sport-specific neuromuscular adaptations.
Conclusion: Push-up execution reveals underlying specialization-driven motor control strategies, offering valuable applications for individualized training, performance analysis, and injury prevention.
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