The 'Perfect Pushup:' Pump-Up or Letdown?

So by now, we've all seen the product called the 'Perfect Pushup;' you know, the swiveling handles designed by a Navy Seal? (Should I disappear after this post, please contact the State Department) Will these plastic platforms get you pumped? Read on!

The premise of the Perfect Pushup is sound; the dual functions of the pectoralis major are horizontal adduction and internal rotation of the humerus, so the creation of an apparatus that allows for internal rotation during a pushup would seem to make sense.

The combination of a handle and a rotating base make the Perfect Pushup ideal for anyone with wrist extension problems. The handles also allow free rotation at the shoulder; for many, the ability to rotate feels more comfortable at the shoulder. The question is, however, are these benefits going to help you develop chiseled pecs?

In a word, no.

In order to effectively challenge a muscle, load is necessary. The body provides the load during the lifting and lowering phases of a traditional pushup - thank you, gravity. However, using the Perfect Pushup, the act of internal rotation is not loaded, so the newly available motion provides little if any benefit to the pushup.

In addition, I have to say that I have some issues with the "Power 10" workout being prescribed by the marketer. (I've posted the link to the video below) When watching the video, pay close attention to three things: hand position, pushup depth, and spinal position.

The hand position always changes from a neutral position to a pronated position; this change of position is being initiated solely by the forearm, and is not affecting the pecs in any way. More problematic is the possibility that novice users will not simply turn to neutral from the forearm, but will instead externally rotate the shoulder, operating opposite pec function.

Also of concern for the novice is the extreme depth of the pushups demonstrated by the model. This is well beyond what I consider a safe range of motion for a pushup. The further the humeral attachment moves from the sternal origin, the more stress across the shoulder joint. Most folks can't do a military, chest-to-floor pushup; I find it irresponsible to encourage such an extreme range.

Last, the spinal position of the model should not be emulated. By the time the model reaches the end of the 5 minute workout, his spine is extended enough to put undue pressure on the lumbar disks, and his chest is lifted enough to have created a near-decline pushup position - considered contraindicated by many joint experts.
(how the drill instructor believes that 'both sets of pec muscles' will be worked in this manner is beyond me, as some form of incline pressing is required to involve pec minor)

To conclude, the Perfect Pushup is a well-conceived product that may allow exercisers with wrist / shoulder limitations to more comfortably perform pushups, but the product does not take full advantage of the two motions performed by pec major, and is unlikely to deliver the amazing results 'as seen on TV.'

Here's the link to the Perfect Pushup Power 10 Workout:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRXs_VBaTCg