Donkey Kick (Band)
An isolation exercise that targets the glutes and hamstrings using a resistance band while in a quadruped position.
Instructions
- Begin on your hands and knees in a quadruped position.
- Place a resistance band around your thigh just above the knee.
- Keep your hands directly below your shoulders and your knees below your hips.
- Keeping your knee bent at 90 degrees, drive one leg upward and backward.
- Raise your heel toward the ceiling, squeezing your glute at the top.
- Lower your knee back down without touching the ground.
- Complete all repetitions on one side, then switch to the other leg.
Tips
- Keep your core engaged and your back neutral throughout the exercise.
- The movement should come from your hip; avoid rotating your torso.
- Perform the movement slowly and deliberately for maximum glute activation.
- Pause briefly at the top of the movement to maximize the contraction.
- Perform the exercise equally on both sides for balanced glute development.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 9 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 13 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 16 reps |