Stability Ball Bird Dog
Level
intermediate
Force
static
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
exercise ball Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A core stability exercise performed from a kneeling position on a stability ball, where you extend opposite arm and leg while maintaining balance.
Instructions
- Kneel over the stability ball with your hands and shins on the ball for stability
- Ensure your core is engaged and your body forms a straight line
- Slowly extend your right arm forward and left leg backward simultaneously
- Maintain balance on the ball without letting it roll
- Return to starting position with control
- Repeat on the opposite side (left arm, right leg)
- Alternate sides for the desired number of reps
Tips
- Move slowly and deliberately to maintain proper balance
- Keep your core engaged throughout the movement to prevent the ball from rolling
- Extend your limbs only as far as you can while maintaining stability
- Avoid rotating your torso; keep your shoulders and hips square
- Breathe out as you extend and breathe in as you return
- Start with shorter extensions if you’re unable to maintain balance with full range
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 |