Downward Facing Balance

Level
intermediate
Force
static
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
exercise ball
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
Downward Facing BalanceDownward Facing Balance

A core stability exercise performed face-down on an exercise ball with extended limbs.

Instructions

  1. Lie facedown on top of an exercise ball.
  2. Walk your hands forward along the floor, rolling the ball down your body to your shins.
  3. Lift your legs, extending your elbows and knees fully while maintaining contact with the ball.
  4. Maintain a neutral spine and avoid excessive arching of your lower back.
  5. Hold this position, engaging your glutes and core throughout.

Tips

  • Start by placing the ball under your thighs and gradually work toward shins for increased difficulty.
  • Keep your core engaged to prevent your lower back from arching excessively.
  • Distribute your weight evenly across your hands and the ball.
  • Breathe steadily and maintain a neutral head position throughout the hold.

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 Hold
Gain strength 3 25 s
Build muscle 3 40 s
Build endurance 3 55 s