Overhead Slam (Medicine Ball)
Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
medicine ball Category
plyometrics Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
An explosive overhead slamming movement where a medicine ball is thrown down with full force, developing upper body power and core strength.
Instructions
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a medicine ball overhead with both hands, arms fully extended.
- Bend your knees slightly to prepare for the explosive movement.
- Explosively extend through your entire body and slam the medicine ball down toward the ground with maximum force.
- Let the ball bounce or catch it as it bounces back up.
- Immediately reset to the starting position and repeat.
- 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.
Slam (Medicine Ball)
Learn more about slam (medicine ball) beginner plyometrics
Two-Handed Slam (Medicine Ball)
Learn more about two-handed slam (medicine ball) beginner plyometrics
Wall Slam (Medicine Ball)
Learn more about wall slam (medicine ball) intermediate plyometrics