Exercise guide
Kettlebell Pullover On Stability Ball
- Intermediate
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Back
- Chest
- Shoulders
- Waist
This variation combines lat and chest development with intense core stabilization, using the stability ball to engage the glutes and obliques throughout the movement.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Sit on the stability ball with a kettlebell resting in your lap.
- Walk your feet forward until your upper back and shoulders are centered on the ball, with your knees bent at 90 degrees.
- Lift your hips into a bridge position so your torso is parallel to the floor.
- Hold the kettlebell by the horns directly over your chest with your arms extended and a slight bend in the elbows.
How to do it
- Inhale and slowly lower the kettlebell behind your head in a controlled arc, maintaining the slight bend in your elbows.
- Lower the weight until your upper arms are roughly in line with your ears or you feel a deep stretch in your lats.
- Exhale and pull the kettlebell back to the starting position over your chest by engaging your lats and pectorals.
- Maintain a slow, controlled tempo (3 seconds down, 1 second up) to ensure stability on the ball.
Form checklist
- Keep your hips elevated and glutes squeezed to maintain a flat bridge.
- Avoid arching your lower back as the weight moves behind your head.
- Keep your elbows at a fixed angle; do not turn this into a tricep extension.
- Ensure your feet remain flat on the floor for maximum stability.
Pro tips
- Think about 'driving your elbows' toward your hips to maximize lat recruitment during the pulling phase.
- Squeeze the kettlebell horns inward to increase pectoral activation and shoulder stability.
Make it harder
- Narrow your stance by bringing your feet together to significantly increase the demand on your obliques and core.
- Add a 2-second pause at the bottom of the movement to challenge the lats in the fully stretched position.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the kettlebell pullover on stability ball work?
- The kettlebell pullover on stability ball primarily targets the lats and pectorals, and also works the abs, obliques, and serratus anterior as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the kettlebell pullover on stability ball?
- The kettlebell pullover on stability ball uses kettlebell.
- Is the kettlebell pullover on stability ball good for beginners?
- The kettlebell pullover on stability ball is rated intermediate. Build a base with simpler variations first, then progress to it with light load and strict form.