Donkey Kick (Band)

Level
beginner
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
bands
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

An isolation exercise that targets the glutes and hamstrings using a resistance band while in a quadruped position.

Instructions

  1. Begin on your hands and knees in a quadruped position.
  2. Place a resistance band around your thigh just above the knee.
  3. Keep your hands directly below your shoulders and your knees below your hips.
  4. Keeping your knee bent at 90 degrees, drive one leg upward and backward.
  5. Raise your heel toward the ceiling, squeezing your glute at the top.
  6. Lower your knee back down without touching the ground.
  7. 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