push-up
A push-up is the ritual of lowering one's chest to the floor, a trial that forces one to confront the inertia of the flesh. Far from aligning body and mind, it serves as a mechanism for reinforcing the prison of unattainable “ideal physique” imposed by society. The pursuit of perfect form resembles a prayer to a god of neuromuscular torment. Its devotees are rewarded invariably with the rebellion of sore muscles the next day. Endless repetitions masquerade as self-discipline, but in reality, they cultivate a delightful ceremony of self-loathing.