Stability Ball Push-Up

Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
exercise ball
Category
strength

A standard push-up performed with hands on a stability ball, adding instability to increase core engagement and muscle activation.

Instructions

  1. Position the stability ball against a wall or place it in the center of the floor
  2. Assume a plank position with hands on the stability ball, slightly wider than shoulder-width
  3. Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels
  4. Engage your core to maintain balance as the ball shifts
  5. Lower your body by bending your elbows
  6. Bring your chest toward the ball until your elbows are at 90 degrees
  7. Push through your hands to return to starting position
  8. 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

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

Clock Press (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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Incline Press (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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Oblique Atomic Push-Up (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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