Overhead Slam (Medicine Ball)

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
medicine ball
Category
plyometrics

An explosive overhead slamming movement where a medicine ball is thrown down with full force, developing upper body power and core strength.

Instructions

  1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a medicine ball overhead with both hands, arms fully extended.
  2. Bend your knees slightly to prepare for the explosive movement.
  3. Explosively extend through your entire body and slam the medicine ball down toward the ground with maximum force.
  4. Let the ball bounce or catch it as it bounces back up.
  5. Immediately reset to the starting position and repeat.
  6. Perform for the prescribed number of repetitions.

Tips

  • The power comes from your entire body, especially your legs and core.
  • Engage your core throughout to transfer force from your lower body.
  • Perform this movement with explosive intent for maximum power development.
  • Use a rubber mat or flooring that can withstand impact.
  • Start with a lighter medicine ball to learn the movement safely.
  • This is an excellent full-body explosive power development exercise.

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 Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 3 15 reps 4 kg 2 kg
Build muscle 3 18 reps 4 kg 2 kg
Build endurance 3 25 reps 3 kg 2 kg

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

beginner plyometrics
beginner plyometrics
intermediate plyometrics