Stability Ball Shoulder Stabilization
Level
intermediate
Force
static
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
exercise ball Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A stability exercise that challenges your shoulder stabilizer muscles by maintaining position on an unstable surface, improving shoulder joint stability.
Instructions
- Begin in a push-up position with your hands or forearms on a stability ball.
- Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels, engaging your core.
- Maintain this position while the ball challenges your stability, causing subtle micro-adjustments.
- Hold for the desired duration, breathing steadily.
- If using forearms, press them into the ball; if using hands, keep arms straight with elbows unlocked.
- Rest and repeat for additional sets.
Tips
- The unstable surface forces your stabilizer muscles to work harder than on a stable surface.
- Start with shorter holds and gradually increase duration as your stabilization improves.
- Keep your shoulders packed (away from ears) to reduce strain on shoulder joints.
- Your core should remain engaged throughout to prevent sagging hips.
- For less difficulty, perform on knees; for more difficulty, elevate your feet.
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 |