Your Body's Response to Push-Ups: Is It Normal? - Internal Medicine

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It's great that you're taking the initiative to exercise, even if it's just starting with push-ups! Let's break down your experience and clarify what's happening in your body during and after this exercise.

When you perform push-ups, you're engaging multiple muscle groups, including your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core. This type of exercise can be quite demanding, especially if you're not accustomed to regular physical activity. It's normal to feel a bit out of breath after doing a set of push-ups, particularly if you're pushing yourself to do more than you're used to. This is your body's way of responding to increased physical demand, and it indicates that your cardiovascular system is working to supply more oxygen to your muscles.

The sensation you described—taking deep breaths and feeling your chest expand—can be attributed to your lungs filling with air more fully than they might during normal, shallow breathing. When you exercise, your body requires more oxygen, and deep breathing helps meet that demand. It's also common to feel a bit of movement in your chest and ribcage as your lungs expand. This is not a sign of any problem; rather, it's a natural response to increased physical activity.
As for the feeling of your "lung bones" moving, it's important to clarify that the lungs themselves do not have bones. However, the ribcage does move during deep breathing. The ribs are connected to the spine and sternum, and they expand outward when you inhale deeply. This movement can sometimes create a sensation that might feel unusual if you're not used to it.
Regarding your concerns about developing conditions like pneumonia or pneumothorax (collapsed lung), these are typically associated with specific risk factors or underlying health issues. Pneumonia is an infection that affects the lungs, while pneumothorax usually results from trauma or certain medical conditions. Simply doing push-ups and experiencing normal breathing sensations does not put you at risk for these conditions.
If you continue to feel discomfort or if your breathing sensations become painful or concerning, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a thorough evaluation and ensure that everything is functioning as it should be.
In summary, what you're experiencing after doing push-ups is quite normal for someone who is new to exercise. Your body is adapting to the increased demand for oxygen, and the sensations you're feeling are part of that process. As you continue to exercise, you may find that your endurance improves, and the feelings of breathlessness and chest expansion become less pronounced. Keep up the good work, and remember to listen to your body as you progress!