Stability Ball Decline Push-Up
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
exercise ball Category
strength Secondary Muscles
An advanced push-up variation with feet elevated on a stability ball, increasing load on the upper chest and anterior deltoids.
Instructions
- Set up in a push-up position with hands on the floor, slightly wider than shoulder-width
- Place your feet on the stability ball with legs straight
- Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels
- Engage your core and maintain stability as the ball shifts
- Lower your body by bending your elbows until your chest nearly touches the floor
- Push through your hands to return to starting position
- Repeat for desired reps
Tips
- Maintain a rigid plank position throughout to prevent the ball from rolling
- Keep your elbows at a 45-degree angle to your body for shoulder safety
- Lower only as far as you can control while maintaining form
- Breathe in as you lower and breathe out as you push up
- If you lack control, start with hands on the ball and feet on the ground instead
- Progress by placing feet higher or adjusting hand position for increased difficulty
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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