Comparison of Thickness Changes of Scapula Stabilization Muscles According to the Position of Unstable Support Surface During Push-up Plus Exercise

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to compare the muscle thicknesses of the upper trapezius, serratus anterior, and pectoralis major, stabilizing the scapula, according to changes in the position of the unstable support surface. Methods: Thirty males in their 20s were randomly assigned into three groups: stable support group (control group), Togu to the arm (experimental group 1), and Togu to the leg groups (experimental group 2). These different push-up plus exercises were performed for four weeks. Results: We found that there was a significant increase in the muscle thickness of the upper trapezius, serratus anterior, and pectoralis major in all groups during the exercise. The increase in the muscle thickness was the highest in the experimental group 1, followed by experimental group 2 and control group. Conclusion: This study shows that Push-up plus exercise has a positive effect on the scapula stabilization muscles. The exercise with an unstable support surface using Togu would be an effective method for scapular muscles.