Kneeling Side Leg to Kick

Instructions

1
Start in a plank position with hands shoulder-width apart, arms straight, body in a straight line from head to heels, and core engaged. Position knees above hips or slightly wider.
2
Maintain a rigid plank position with neutral spine alignment. Ensure shoulders are packed and glutes are slightly engaged. Prepare to drive movement through hamstrings.
3
From the plank position, slowly lower hips toward the ground by bending at the knees, bringing heels closer to glutes while maintaining upper body stability. Keep hands firmly planted and core braced throughout the descent.
4
Explosively drive heels backward and extend legs forcefully, returning to the starting plank position. This powerful leg extension drives the hamstrings to concentrically contract, completing the repetition.

PRIMARY MUSCLESHamstrings
SECONDARY MUSCLESGluteus Maximus, Erector Spinae, Adductors
EQUIPMENTBody weight
DIFFICULTYIntermediate

Overview

Athletic trainers and bodybuilding coaches frequently recommend the Kneeling Side Leg to Kick because it challenges the Hamstrings through a dynamic range of motion. By relying on Body weight, it reinforces proper movement patterns and builds robust strength in the Hips region.

Benefits

  • Promotes balanced muscular development by effectively recruiting the Hamstrings and associated synergists.
  • Significantly enhances the structural integrity and power of the Hamstrings.
  • Improves overall Hips stability and proprioception during heavy loads.

Pro Tips

Think about pulling from your elbows rather than your hands to better isolate the Hamstrings and minimize bicep/forearm takeover.

Muscle Anatomy

The primary driver is the Hamstrings. However, the movement also recruits Gluteus Maximus, Erector Spinae, Adductors to maintain control of the Body weight.

Exercise Variations

  • Dumbbell Kneeling Side Leg to Kick
  • Cable Kneeling Side Leg to Kick
  • Banded Kneeling Side Leg to Kick

Frequently Asked Questions