Single Arm Push-Up (Medicine Ball)

Level
expert
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
medicine ball
Category
strength
Primary Muscles

An advanced push-up variation with one hand on a medicine ball, significantly increasing chest, shoulder, and core demands while developing anti-rotation stability.

Instructions

  1. Begin in a plank position with one hand on a medicine ball and the other hand on the floor.
  2. Lower your body by bending your elbows, keeping them at approximately 45 degrees from your torso.
  3. Lower until your chest nearly touches the medicine ball or floor level.
  4. Push through your hands to drive yourself back to the starting position.
  5. Maintain a straight line from your head through your heels; resist rotation.
  6. Complete reps on one side, then switch hand positions.

Tips

  • This is an advanced movement; master traditional push-ups first.
  • Maintaining core stability and preventing rotation is critical.
  • Keep your glutes engaged to prevent sagging hips.
  • The medicine ball may roll; use a slightly deflated or larger ball for stability.
  • Lower yourself in a controlled manner to maintain equilibrium.
  • This develops significant chest, shoulder, and anti-rotation core strength.

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

Alternatives

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