Cable Glute Kickback

A cable isolation exercise targeting the glutes through hip extension. Useful for lifters building glute size and improving single-leg hip control.

Also known as: cable kickback, glute kickback cable, cable glute kickbacks, cable machine glute kickback, glute kickbacks on cable

Beginner Isolation Cable machine

How to do the Cable Glute Kickback

  1. Attach an ankle strap to the low pulley and fasten it around your working ankle.
  2. Stand facing the machine and hold the frame lightly for balance.
  3. Set your feet hip width apart with a soft bend in the standing knee.
  4. Brace your trunk and keep your pelvis square to the machine.
  5. Drive the strapped leg straight back by extending at the hip without leaning forward.
  6. Reach the end of your hip extension and squeeze the glute without twisting your hips.
  7. Bring the leg back under control until the foot returns near the starting position.
  8. Complete all reps on one side, then switch legs.

Common mistakes

  • Arching the lower back
  • Turning the toes outward
  • Swinging the leg with momentum
  • Rotating the pelvis open
  • Leaning torso to create range

Form cues

  • Keep hips facing forward
  • Move from the hip
  • Hold the frame lightly
  • Finish with glute squeeze

Substitutes & similar

Barbell Hip Thrust ▶
Barbell Hip Thrust Barbell Intermediate
Dumbbell Hip Thrust ▶
Dumbbell Hip Thrust Dumbbells Beginner
Trap Bar Deadlift ▶
Trap Bar Deadlift Trap bar Intermediate
Kettlebell Swing ▶
Kettlebell Swing Kettlebell Intermediate
Conventional Deadlift ▶
Conventional Deadlift Barbell Advanced
Romanian Deadlift ▶
Romanian Deadlift Barbell Intermediate