Donkey Kick (Cable)

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
cable
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

Isolation exercise for the glutes using a cable machine, performed by kicking one leg backward against resistance while on hands and knees.

Instructions

  1. Attach a cable handle to an ankle cuff and set the cable to the lowest position.
  2. Assume a hands and knees position facing the cable machine.
  3. Position your working leg so the cable handle is secured around the ankle.
  4. Keeping your knee bent, drive your heel backward and slightly upward.
  5. Achieve maximum glute contraction at the end of the kicking motion.
  6. Return your leg to the starting position under control.

Tips

  • Keep your core engaged throughout to maintain stability and prevent lower back strain.
  • Drive your heel backward and upward to maximize glute activation.
  • Avoid hyperextending your lower back; focus on the glute contraction.
  • Perform all reps on one leg before switching to the opposite side.
  • This exercise can also be performed standing if preferred for balance variation.

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 Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 3 9 reps 17.5 kg 15 kg
Build muscle 3 13 reps 15 kg 12.5 kg
Build endurance 3 16 reps 12.5 kg 10 kg

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength

Stability Ball Single Leg Glute Bridge

Learn more about stability ball single leg glute bridge
intermediate strength

Standing Hip Extension (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about standing hip extension (trx / suspension trainer)
beginner strength
intermediate strength