For men looking to build explosive power and strength in the chest muscles, plyometrics are one of the best options. Plyometrics are quite different from standard resistance training exercises. They require quick bursts of power and are generally not appropriate for those starting out. They are also not appropriate for many people with arthritis and/or people who have had serious injuries to joints. For those who can do plyometrics however, they are one of the best ways to build up power in the chest muscles.
One of the most simple ways to do plyometrics for the chest is based on the concept of a simple push-up. Plyometric push-ups are some of the best chest exercises for men looking to increase power output in the pectoral muscles. To do the plyometric version of this exercise, one simply enters into the position that one assumes when doing a normal push-up. Rather than going up and down in a slow and controlled manner however, the person doing them pushes themselves up off the floor with such explosive power that the hands temporarily leave the ground. The person then proceeds to do as many repetitions as possible without stopping. Those who do this movement will find that they can do far fewer than standard push-ups do to the increased power output required to move the body up off the ground completely.
There is a another great way to work the chest muscles using plyometrics. The plyometric push-up exercise can also be done with two standard fitness steps placed about shoulder width apart. The person doing the movement does everything the same as it is done in the previously described exercise, with the main difference being that the person is able to get a greater range of motion with a deeper stretch in the pectoral muscles due to the use of the steps.
Plyometrics exercises are great for building speed and power in muscles. They are not appropriate for everyone so make sure to check with your doctor before engaging in any exercise program. Also make sure to check with a good certified personal trainer before beginning any exercise you are unfamiliar with.