Illustrated guide to the Stability Ball Incline Chest Press exercise

Stability Ball Incline Chest Press

Dumbbell incline press on a stability ball — adds balance demand to the upper-chest press.

Level: Intermediate

Primary: Chest

Secondary: Shoulder Triceps

Movement: Compound

Tags: Balance / Stability Push

Type: Light Activity

Equipment: Dumbbell Stability Ball

Sports: Football Rugby

Target muscles

The upper chest, anterior deltoid, and triceps drive the press. The trunk and glutes hold the slight incline against the unstable ball.

How to perform

Setup

Sit on the ball and walk forward until the upper back is on the ball at a slight incline. Hold dumbbells at chest level.

Execution

Press the dumbbells upward until the arms are fully extended. Lower with control. Keep the hips up.

Common mistakes

  • Hips dropping.
  • Letting the ball roll.
  • Going too heavy.
  • Cutting the range.
  • Flaring the elbows.

Progressions and regressions

Regress to bench incline press. To progress, work pause press.

Programming notes

Upper-chest accessory. 3 sets of 8-12 reps, twice a week.

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