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Stability Ball Back Extension

Beginner
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A stability ball-based back extension targeting erector spinae, glutes, and hamstrings to strengthen the lower back and improve core stability; used for posture enhancement and injury prevention.

About Exercise

Equipment

Stability Ball

Difficulty

3/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Lower Back

Secondary Muscles

Abs, Obliques

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Stability
Rehab

Training Style

Functional Training
Balance Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Lower Back

9/10

Erector Spinae

Glutes

7/10

Glute Max

Hamstrings

6/10

Biceps Femoris

Abs

5/10

Transverse Abdominis

Obliques

4/10

External Obliques

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Place the stability ball on a non-slip surface. Lie face-down over the ball with hips and lower torso centered on top, feet planted shoulder-width apart on the floor, and hands crossed over your chest.

  1. Engage your core and maintain a neutral spine.
  2. Exhale and lift your torso by contracting your lower back, glutes, and hamstrings until your body forms a straight line from head to heels.
  3. Pause briefly at the top while squeezing your glutes and back.
  4. Inhale and lower your torso slowly in a controlled manner back to the starting position.
  5. Repeat for the desired repetitions, keeping movements smooth.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Keep core tight
  • Maintain neutral spine
  • Squeeze glutes at top
  • Control the descent
  • Feet firm on ground

Breathing

Inhale as you lower your torso; exhale as you lift and brace your core throughout.

Tempo

3-1-2

Range of Motion

Lower until torso hangs forward with neutral spine; lift until body aligns straight from head to heels without arching the lower back.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute lower back pain exists
  • Use proper ball size and inflation
  • Stop if pain occurs in back or neck
  • Ensure clear space around ball
  • Beginners use wall for foot support

Spotting

Not required; perform in open space with optional partner for balance assistance if needed.

Common Mistakes

  • Overarching lower back
  • Jerking movements
  • Letting head drop
  • Poor core engagement
  • Relying on momentum

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back injury
  • Herniated disc
  • Recent spinal surgery

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate spinal extension
  • Hip flexor flexibility

Build Up First

  • Basic core stability
  • Familiarity with bodyweight exercises

Also known as

Swiss Ball Back Extension, Exercise Ball Back Extension, Physio Ball Back Extension, Gym Ball Back Extension

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