Push-Ups With Feet On An Exercise Ball
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
exercise ball Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

An advanced push-up variation with feet on an unstable exercise ball, increasing core engagement and difficulty while targeting the chest and shoulders.
Instructions
- Place your hands on the floor about 36 inches apart, holding your torso up at arm’s length.
- Place your toes on top of an exercise ball to elevate your body.
- Maintain a straight body line from head to heels while stabilizing on the unstable surface.
- Lower yourself until your chest almost touches the floor as you inhale.
- Using your pectoral muscles, press your upper body back up to the starting position.
- Squeeze your chest as you exhale and reach the starting position.
- Pause briefly at the top and repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Tips
- The unstable surface requires significant core engagement for stabilization.
- Start with a properly inflated ball that allows your feet to rest firmly.
- Move slowly and deliberately to maintain stability and control.
- This variation builds upper body strength, stability, and core endurance.
- Keep your hips level and avoid rotating or bouncing on the ball.
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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