This exercise is great for shaping and strengthening the chest muscles. The chest is scientifically named the pectoralis. This muscle is used any time you push a chair up to the table, shut a car door, or push a shopping cart. There are two muscles that make up the pectoralis. They are the pectoralis major and minor. The pectoralis major is always the prime mover during chest exercises.

Start by placing your shins on the stability ball. Use your arms to support your upper body. Your arms should be approximately shoulder width apart. Your body should be perfectly straight. Next, lower your upper body until you are just a few inches from the ground. Then push back up to the starting position. Be sure to breathe out as you push your body up.