Pushups vs Weight Lifting?

Ok i'm REALLY confused about certain aspects of body building and lifting weights. I'm almost 6 ft tall with a skinny frame (about 150lbs). My aim is to get some basic form of definition in my upper body (what may loosely be called "being cut"), and NOT to gain insane amounts of muscle and weight.

I thoroughly enjoy doing pushups, however, some people say lifting weights is necessary. On top of that, i'm told I have to take dietary supplements (protein shakes, etc) too.

I guess my question(s) is/are whether doing pushups alone (and situps, pullups, etc - i prefer to steer clear of weights) is enough to attain my objective or whether lifting weights is necessary?

Can someone give me an analysis of doing pushups and other activities DEVOID of lifting weights vs weight lifting? The pros and cons of both, and what both will ultimately achieve as far as muslce development? And most importantly, which will best help my cause?

Thanks so much!!

I can't disagree with the answers given, but I'm a big fan of push ups and sit ups. If done properly, *all* major muscle groups are used during push ups. There is also the satisfaction of being able to do your exercises virtually anywhere. Besides, what is more satisfying - bench pressing 200 pounds ten times or snapping off 50 perfect push ups?

Mike Honeycutt

To me, there is nothing more satisfying than doing push ups in the morning. If done correctly they're more difficult and more tiresome than benching. Also various forms of push ups will work different sets of muscles, plop your feet up on a couch, wide arm, diamond push ups, etc... Report It

lifting weights works some stabilizer muscles that you won't work with pushups. working all the muscles (stabilizers) will make you stronger, and overall have better symetry.

I think with weight lifting and weight training u get more defined and it takes less time then doing pushup etc. and less exercise.