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Last updated March 5, 2026
AbductorsGlutes
Kickback - Kneeling, Straight Leg
Get on all fours. Extend one leg straight back and lift it towards the ceiling. Squeeze your glute at the top, but be careful not to arch your lower back excessively.
Quick facts
- Level
- Beginner
- Mechanic
- Isolation
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- Medium
- Calorie Burn
- Low-Medium
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
Glutes (max)
Secondary
Hamstrings
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
Body Weight
Movement pattern
Unilateral
Posture
Kneeling
Tracking parameters
reps
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Start by kneeling on a mat or soft surface with one knee on the ground and the other leg extended straight back.
- Ensure your body is aligned, with your hips square to the ground and your core engaged.
- Step 2Position Your Arm
- Place the hand of the arm that will be working on the ground for support.
- Keep your other arm straight and hold a dumbbell or weight in that hand.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Tighten your abdominal muscles to stabilize your body.
- Keep your back straight and avoid arching or rounding your spine.
- Step 4Lift the Weight
- With your arm straight, lift the dumbbell up towards the ceiling while keeping your elbow close to your side.
- Focus on squeezing your triceps as you lift the weight.
- Step 5Lower the Weight
- Slowly lower the dumbbell back to the starting position, fully extending your arm.
- Maintain control of the weight throughout the movement.
- Step 6Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions on one side before switching to the other side.
- Ensure that your form remains consistent with each repetition.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps on both sides, carefully place the dumbbell down.
- Stand up slowly and ensure you maintain good posture as you finish.
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