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

A core stability exercise performed face-down on an exercise ball with extended limbs.
Instructions
- Lie facedown on top of an exercise ball.
- Walk your hands forward along the floor, rolling the ball down your body to your shins.
- Lift your legs, extending your elbows and knees fully while maintaining contact with the ball.
- Maintain a neutral spine and avoid excessive arching of your lower back.
- 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 |