The glowing area shows where you should feel it working.
Kickbacks · ●●● Difficulty 2 of 3
Cable Kickback
Gluteus maximus (upper fibres)
Constant cable tension makes this a top upper-glute builder. Lean forward and keep the movement in your hip.
Set up
- Attach an ankle strap to a low cable.
- Hold the machine, hinge forward slightly, standing leg soft.
How to do it
- 1Kick the strapped leg back and slightly out, leading with the heel.
- 2Stop when you feel a hard glute squeeze — before your back arches.
- 3Return slowly until your foot is just in front of the standing foot.
Form cues
- Lean forward, hips square
- Heel leads the way
- Squeeze, don't swing
Common mistakes
- Arching the lower back to go higher
- Using momentum
- Standing bolt upright
Make it work for you
- Easier
- Lighter weight with a 2-second hold
- Harder
- Slow 3-second return
- Gym
- Cable with ankle strap
Want this in a plan made for you?
Get the right exercises, sets and reps for your goal — progressed over 12 weeks.
Take the quizRecommended gear
For your cable kickback
For gym kickbacks that hit the upper glute
Cable ankle straps (pair)
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