Decline Push-Up (Medicine Ball)
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
medicine ball Category
calisthenics Secondary Muscles
An advanced push-up variation where the feet are elevated on a medicine ball, increasing chest and shoulder demand while challenging core stability.
Instructions
- Position yourself in a push-up stance with your hands on the ground shoulder-width apart.
- Place your feet on top of a medicine ball, maintaining a straight body line.
- Lower your body toward the ground by bending your elbows, keeping them at approximately 45 degrees from your body.
- Press through your hands to return to the starting position.
- Maintain stability on the medicine ball throughout the movement.
Tips
- This variation increases difficulty and upper chest activation compared to standard push-ups.
- Keep your core engaged to prevent your hips from sagging or rotating.
- Use a sturdy medicine ball that won’t shift excessively during the movement.
- Beginners should master standard push-ups before attempting this variation.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 7 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps |
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