Illustrated guide to the Stability Ball Shoulder Press exercise

Stability Ball Shoulder Press

Seated dumbbell shoulder press on a stability ball — adds balance demand to the press.

Level: Intermediate

Primary: Shoulder

Secondary: Triceps

Movement: Compound

Tags: Balance / Stability Push

Type: Light Activity

Equipment: Dumbbell Stability Ball

Sports: Football Rugby Swimming

Target muscles

The deltoids drive the press. The triceps lock out. The trunk and deep core stabilize against the unstable ball.

How to perform

Setup

Sit upright on the stability ball with feet flat. Hold dumbbells at shoulder height.

Execution

Press the dumbbells overhead until the arms are fully extended. Slowly lower. Engage the core to stay balanced.

Common mistakes

  • Body swaying on the ball.
  • Arching the lower back.
  • Going too heavy.
  • Cutting the range.
  • Soft core.

Progressions and regressions

Regress to seated bench shoulder press. To progress, work pause press.

Programming notes

Combined shoulder and stability work. 3 sets of 8-12 reps, twice a week.

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