Illustrated guide to the Medicine Ball Chest Press Toss exercise

Medicine Ball Chest Press Toss

Lying chest press toss with a medicine ball — explosive plyometric chest pressing.

Level: Advanced

Primary: Chest

Secondary: Shoulder Triceps

Movement: Compound

Tags: Push

Type: Anaerobic Intervals (HIIT / Bootcamp / Circuit) Hybrid Athletic

Equipment: Medicine Ball

Sports: Football Rugby

Target muscles

The pectoralis major drives the explosive press. The triceps lock out the elbows. The deltoids contribute. The trunk braces. As a plyometric chest movement, this trains explosive pressing power.

How to perform

Setup

Lie on your back with knees bent. Hold a medicine ball at chest level.

Execution

Explosively press and release the ball straight up into the air as high as possible. Catch it as it descends and immediately lower it back to the chest. Continuous rhythm. Keep the core engaged.

Common mistakes

  • Going too heavy. The ball needs to be light enough to catch safely.
  • Not catching the ball cleanly.
  • Missing the ball — drop your arms to your sides immediately if you lose it.
  • Cutting the press range.
  • Not bracing the trunk.

Progressions and regressions

Regress to lying medicine ball chest press (no toss). To progress, increase ball weight conservatively.

Programming notes

Explosive chest work. 3-4 sets of 5-8 reps, twice a week.

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