Exercise guide
Roll Ball Forearm Extensors
- Beginner
- Isolation
- Timed hold
- Lower arms
- Upper arms
This isolation exercise targets the forearm extensors on the top of the arm, using a medicine ball against a wall to provide constant tension and improve wrist stability.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Primary
Equipment
Setup
- Stand facing a wall with a medicine ball held against it at shoulder height using one hand.
- Position your hand so the palm is facing down (pronated) and the fingers are pointing toward the ceiling.
- Keep a slight bend in your elbow and stand in a staggered stance for better balance.
- Apply enough pressure to the ball to keep it pinned against the wall without it slipping.
How to do it
- Exhale and roll the ball upward by extending your wrist, moving the back of your hand toward your forearm.
- Inhale and slowly roll the ball back down to the starting position by flexing the wrist.
- Maintain a controlled 2-1-2 tempo (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 2 seconds down).
- Complete all repetitions on one arm before switching to the other side.
Form checklist
- Keep your elbow and shoulder stationary; the movement should occur only at the wrist.
- Maintain constant, firm pressure against the ball throughout the entire range of motion.
- Ensure your forearm remains parallel to the floor or slightly angled up, not tucked against your body.
- Avoid using your body weight or shoulder to push the ball up.
Pro tips
- Focus on the 'burn' in the top of your forearm; this indicates the extensors are being properly isolated.
- Spread your fingers wide on the ball to increase the surface area and improve control during the roll.
Make it harder
- Increase the weight of the medicine ball to add more resistance.
- Perform the exercise with a fully extended arm to increase the stability demand on the shoulder.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the roll ball forearm extensors work?
- The roll ball forearm extensors primarily targets the forearms.
- What equipment do you need for the roll ball forearm extensors?
- The roll ball forearm extensors uses medicine ball.
- Is the roll ball forearm extensors good for beginners?
- Yes. The roll ball forearm extensors is a beginner-friendly movement and a strong foundation to build on.