What to do next time? Warm up. I know, you want to just drop and give me twenty. But spend five minutes doing arm circles, shoulder rolls, and a few super light incline pushups. Get the blood moving. It’s like greasing the gears.
Mix up your pushup variations. Incline pushups (hands on a bench) are easier on the shoulders. Decline (feet up) are for showing off. Start with easier versions. There’s no trophy for being a hero today and a sore mess tomorrow.
Also, strengthen your rear delts (the back of your shoulders). They’re often weak compared to your front. Do rows, face pulls, or light-band exercises. It’s like giving your shoulders a balanced team to work with. You wouldn’t let one horse pull a carriage, right?
Finally, listen to your pain. If it’s a sharp, pinching sensation every time you go down, that’s not “good sore.” That’s a warning light. See a physical therapist if it lingers. You’re worth the visit. Really.
So, drink some water, take a break, and feel proud. You did your pushups. Just don’t do them again tomorrow if your shoulders are still whining. Your shoulders might be sore, but they’re also the reason you can high-five anyone. Take care of them, you beautiful, stubborn human.
