Decline Push-up (on stability ball)

The Decline Push-up on a stability ball is a challenging yet effective exercise that targets your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles. By elevating your feet on a stability ball, you increase the difficulty level of the traditional push-up, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to take their upper body strength to the next level. The instability created by the stability ball engages your core muscles even more, forcing them to work harder to maintain balance throughout the movement. This not only helps to develop a strong and stable core but also improves overall functional strength that can be transferred to other exercises or daily activities. To perform the Decline Push-up on a stability ball, you start by placing your hands on the ground slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, and your shins resting on the stability ball behind you. Make sure your body forms a straight line from head to toe, engaging your core muscles. From there, lower your chest towards the ground by bending your elbows, keeping them close to your sides. Pause for a moment when your chest is just above the ground, and then push yourself back up to the starting position. As with any exercise, it's important to maintain proper form throughout the movement to prevent injury and get the most out of the exercise. If you find it too challenging, you can modify the exercise by performing it with your knees on the ground or using a lower surface to elevate your feet instead of a stability ball. Incorporating the Decline Push-up on a stability ball into your workout routine can help you build upper body strength, increase muscle definition, and improve core stability. Start with a few sets of 8-12 reps, gradually increasing the intensity as you become more comfortable with the exercise. Remember to listen to your body, take breaks as needed, and always strive for proper form.

Instructions

• Start by positioning yourself in a standard push-up position with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart on the floor, and your feet raised on a stability ball.
• Slowly lower your body down until your chest is just above the floor, keeping your back straight and your core engaged.
• Push through your hands and extend your arms to return to the starting position.
• Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
• Remember to maintain proper form throughout the exercise, and engage your chest, shoulders, and triceps.

Tips & Tricks

• Engage your core and keep your body in a straight line throughout the exercise.
• Start with a stability ball with a decline angle that challenges you, but allows you to maintain proper form.
• Place your hands shoulder-width apart on the floor, slightly wider than your shoulders, for a wider range of motion.
• Lower your chest towards the ground by bending your elbows, while keeping your elbows close to your sides.
• Press through your palms to extend your arms and return to the starting position.
• Focus on control and stability rather than speed.
• Gradually increase the decline angle of the stability ball as you get stronger to continue challenging your muscles.
• Incorporate variations such as alternating leg lifts or adding resistance bands for increased difficulty.
• Don't forget to warm up before performing the exercise to prevent injury.
• If you feel any pain or discomfort, regress the exercise by performing it on an elevated surface or with your knees on the ground.