Should you still do push ups if you train with free weights? This is a question I use to ask myself a lot.
I use to train only with free weights thinking push ups are not necessary.
This is a big mistake.
Here is a couple of things you maybe didn't not know about push ups: (1) It works the upper back in a way that weights cannot.
Therefore push ups are great for your back and chest.
(2) It works the abs in a better way than the plank if you do them in the correct way.
So its great for your core.
(3) It's great for your overall functional strength.
It will make you stronger all round.
Actions like throwing and griping will improve.
So rethink your approach to the push up.
There is different types of push exercises out there.
You can mix it up with different routines.
The bottom line is that bodyweight exercises work larger groups of muscles and therefore make a big impact in your overall workout.
So make some space in your weight training plan.
Throw in a couple of sets and you will make big strength gains.
Don't make the mistake I made for a long time and only train with weights.
Since I have adapted my workout my strength has improved and my performance in sport has improved in such a way that I now cant imagine a workout without them.
Sometimes small changes in your workout has massive results, believe me this is one of them.