Train Fitness has rebranded to Motra. Learn More

Weighted Sit-Up on Stability Ball

Intermediate
Home Friendly

A weighted core exercise performed on a stability ball that targets the rectus abdominis and hip flexors to build core strength; increases range of motion and stability demands compared to floor variations.

About Exercise

Equipment

Dumbbells, Stability Ball

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Abs

Secondary Muscles

Hip Flexors, Abs

Accessory Muscles

Lower Back

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Abs

10/10

Rectus Abdominis

Obliques

6/10

External Obliques

Hip Flexors

4/10

Iliopsoas

Abs

3/10

Transverse Abdominis

Lower Back

2/10

Erector Spinae

Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Sit on a stability ball with feet flat on the floor. Walk feet forward and roll down until the lower and mid-back are supported by the curve of the ball. Hold a dumbbell against your upper chest with both hands.

  1. Lower your torso backward over the ball to get a full stretch in the abdominals.
  2. Exhale and curl your torso upward by contracting the abs, bringing the ribcage toward the pelvis.
  3. Continue the movement until the torso is nearly upright, flexing at the hips.
  4. Inhale and slowly lower your torso back down to the starting position, controlling the extension.
  5. Keep the glutes engaged to stabilize the hips throughout the movement.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Ribs to hips
  • Chin tucked
  • Control the negative
  • Feet planted firmly

Breathing

Exhale forcefully as you curl up; inhale deeply as you lower back down.

Tempo

3-1-1

Range of Motion

From full spinal extension (arched over the ball) to full spinal flexion (torso upright).

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Ensure the ball is properly inflated and on a non-slip surface
  • Avoid if experiencing acute lower back pain
  • Start with a light weight to master stability

Spotting

Not recommended; perform in a clear space.

Common Mistakes

  • Pulling on the neck
  • Using momentum to bounce up
  • Hips dropping too low
  • Rushing the eccentric phase

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back issues
  • Spinal disc concerns

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate spinal flexion range
  • Hip flexor mobility

Build Up First

  • Bodyweight stability ball sit-up mastery
  • Basic core bracing competency

Also known as

Stability Ball Dumbbell Sit-Up, Swiss Ball Weighted Sit-Up, Exercise Ball Dumbbell Crunch, Weighted Ball Crunch

Found this helpful?

Share your thoughts or help us improve this guide.

Hero Image

Master your movement.

Experience automatic exercise detection and rep counting - powered by the motion of your Apple Watch.

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking 'Accept All', you consent to our use of cookies.