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Stability Ball Hyperextension

Intermediate
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Stability ball hyperextension that targets erector spinae, glutes, and hamstrings to strengthen the posterior chain and improve core stability; uses instability for enhanced balance and posture.

About Exercise

Equipment

Stability Ball

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Lower Back, Glutes

Secondary Muscles

Abs

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Stability
Rehab

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Lower Back

10/10

Erector Spinae

Glutes

8/10

Glute Max

Hamstrings

7/10

Biceps Femoris

Abs

5/10

Transverse Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Lie face down over a stability ball with hips centered on the ball and feet anchored against a wall or held by a partner. Cross arms over chest and allow torso to round forward.

  1. Engage core and squeeze glutes to lift torso upward.
  2. Extend spine until body forms straight line from head to heels.
  3. Pause briefly at the top.
  4. Lower torso slowly back to starting position.
  5. Maintain control throughout the descent.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Keep core tight
  • Squeeze glutes at top
  • Avoid arching lower back
  • Move slowly and controlled

Breathing

Inhale as you lower your torso; exhale as you lift and squeeze at the top. Brace core before initiating movement.

Tempo

3-1-1

Range of Motion

Start with torso rounded over the ball; extend to a straight line from head to heels without hyperextending the back.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Secure feet to prevent slipping
  • Stop if you feel lower back pain
  • Use a properly inflated ball on stable surface
  • Avoid if you have acute back injuries

Spotting

Have a partner hold your feet for stability; not typically needed for spotting the lift itself.

Common Mistakes

  • Overarching the back
  • Not anchoring feet securely
  • Using momentum instead of muscle control
  • Letting gravity drop during descent

When to Avoid

  • Acute low back pain
  • Herniated discs

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate spinal flexibility
  • Hip mobility for positioning

Build Up First

  • Basic core bracing competency
  • Familiarity with bodyweight extensions

Also known as

Stability Ball Back Extension, Swiss Ball Hyperextension

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