Stability Ball Push-Up
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
exercise ball Category
strength Secondary Muscles
A standard push-up performed with hands on a stability ball, adding instability to increase core engagement and muscle activation.
Instructions
- Position the stability ball against a wall or place it in the center of the floor
- Assume a plank position with hands on the stability ball, slightly wider than shoulder-width
- Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels
- Engage your core to maintain balance as the ball shifts
- Lower your body by bending your elbows
- Bring your chest toward the ball until your elbows are at 90 degrees
- Push through your hands to return to starting position
- Repeat for desired reps
Tips
- Maintain a rigid plank position throughout; avoid letting your hips sag
- The instability of the ball significantly increases core engagement
- Position your elbows at 45 degrees to your body for shoulder safety
- Control the ball’s movement to prevent excessive rolling
- Breathe in as you lower and breathe out as you push up
- Start with the ball against a wall for increased stability
- Reduce difficulty by placing feet closer to 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 |
Alternatives
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