Stability Ball Dead Bug

Level
beginner
Force
static
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
exercise ball
Category
strength
Primary Muscles

A core stability exercise performed lying on your back with the stability ball under your feet, where you alternate extending limbs while maintaining spinal stability.

Instructions

  1. Lie flat on your back with arms extended straight up toward the ceiling
  2. Place your feet on the stability ball with knees bent at 90 degrees
  3. Press your lower back into the floor to engage your core
  4. Slowly extend your right arm overhead while straightening your left leg
  5. Return to starting position with control
  6. Repeat on the opposite side (left arm, right leg)
  7. Continue alternating for desired reps

Tips

  • Keep your lower back pressed to the floor to prevent strain and maintain core engagement
  • Move slowly and deliberately to ensure control throughout
  • Only extend your limbs as far as you can while keeping your back flat
  • Maintain consistent contact between the ball and your feet
  • Breathe out as you extend and breathe in as you return
  • Start with shorter range of motion if you struggle to maintain back contact

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

Alternatives

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

beginner strength
beginner strength

Incline Plank With Alternate Floor Touch

Learn more about incline plank with alternate floor touch
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength