Upper Arms Exercise · EZ Barbell
EZ Bar French Press On Exercise Ball
The french press — a two-hand overhead extension — gets an added balance challenge here from lying back over an unstable ball instead of a flat bench, which means the core and hips have to stabilize the position while the triceps do the actual pressing work. The ez-bar's angled grip is easier on the wrists than a straight bar for this movement.
Go to the movement steps- Category
- Upper Arms
- Equipment
- EZ Barbell
- Target
- Triceps
Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.
How to Do the EZ Bar French Press On Exercise Ball
- Sit atop an exercise ball, taking an overhand grip on an EZ barbell.
- Press your arms straight overhead, keeping your elbows tucked close to your head.
- Bend your elbows to lower the barbell slowly behind your head.
- Hold briefly at the bottom, then straighten your arms back up to the top.
- Repeat for your planned rep target, maintaining clean technique and steady breathing on every repetition.
Quick Exercise Facts
Recommended Sets & Reps by Goal
Moderate weight · 60s rest
Lighter weight · 30–45s rest
Lower slowly for 3 seconds · 60s rest
Technique & Form Tips
Focus on controlled elbow extension while keeping your upper arms fixed in the position required by your specific variation, such as a pushdown or overhead extension. Manage your range of motion based on your own comfort during both flexion and extension.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Elbow migration: Keep the upper arm stationary to prevent the movement from turning into a different exercise.
- Inconsistent elbow tracking: Follow the intended path for your elbows to ensure they do not excessively flare outward.
- Forcing the end position: Straighten and bend the elbow through a controlled, comfortable range without snapping into the end position.
How to Breathe During This Exercise
Breathe continuously, matching your inhale and exhale to the pace of your repetitions.
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Comfort and Control
Choose a load and range you can control. Stop if the movement causes pain. If discomfort persists, stop and ask a qualified professional about an appropriate exercise and range.
General guidance: Mayo Clinic on weight-training technique. Follow the specific movement steps above for this variation.
Muscles Worked
The EZ Bar French Press On Exercise Ball mainly targets your Triceps, with your Shoulders helping support the movement.
More Upper Arms Exercises
Assisted Standing Triceps Extension (with Towel)
Assisted Triceps Dip (kneeling)
Band Alternating Biceps Curl
Band Close-Grip Push-Up
Band Concentration Curl
Band One Arm Overhead Biceps Curl
More Triceps Exercises
Band Side Triceps Extension
Barbell Close-Grip Bench Press
Barbell Decline Close Grip To Skull Press
Barbell Incline Close Grip Bench Press
Barbell Incline Reverse-Grip Press
Barbell Jm Bench Press
Equipment Alternatives
Don't have ez barbell? These target the same triceps with different equipment.
Body-Up
Band Side Triceps Extension
Barbell Decline Close Grip To Skull Press
Cable Alternate Triceps Extension
FAQ
- What muscles does the EZ Bar French Press On Exercise Ball work?
- The EZ Bar French Press On Exercise Ball mainly works your triceps. Your shoulders also works to help support and steady your body. Using good, smooth form makes sure you work the right muscles and avoid unnecessary strain on your joints.
- What equipment do I need for the EZ Bar French Press On Exercise Ball?
- You do the EZ Bar French Press On Exercise Ball with a ez barbell. Make sure your equipment is set up safely before starting. If you work out at home or have limited gear, check out our alternative exercises below.
- What form mistake should I watch for on the EZ Bar French Press On Exercise Ball?
- One mistake to watch for is elbow migration: Keep the upper arm stationary to prevent the movement from turning into a different exercise.. Use a comfortable range and a controlled return; reduce the load if you cannot maintain the demonstrated setup.
- How many sets and reps should I perform on the EZ Bar French Press On Exercise Ball?
- To tone and grow muscle, do 3 to 4 sets of 10 to 15 smooth reps with 60 seconds of rest, focusing on a full stretch and squeezing the muscle at the top of each rep.
- What's a good alternative to the EZ Bar French Press On Exercise Ball?
- The Body-Up trains your triceps with body weight and a similar movement pattern. Review its form guide before substituting it, since setup and range of motion can differ.