Muscular strength and endurance: Pushup test

Pushups can help you measure muscular strength and endurance. If you're starting a fitness program, you can do pushups on your knees. If you can, do classic pushups. Follow these steps for both types:

• Lie facedown on the floor with your elbows bent and your palms next to your shoulders.
• Keep your back straight. Push up with your arms until your arms are at full length.
• Lower your body until your chin touches the floor.
• Do as many pushups as you can until you need to rest.

The following counts show a good fitness level based on age and sex. If your pushup count is below the target number, use the target as a goal to work toward. Counts above the targets mean better fitness.