Exercise guide
Cable Glute Kickback (straight leg)
The Straight-Leg Cable Glute Kickback moves one leg backward against a low pulley while the knee stays nearly extended. The glutes drive hip extension, with the hamstrings assisting. A stable support helps keep the movement focused on the working hip.
Training context
Muscles worked by the Straight-Leg Kickback
The glutes move the thigh behind the body, while the hamstrings assist because the knee remains nearly straight. The stance leg and torso provide balance.
The leg does not need to travel far behind the body. Once the pelvis tilts or lower back arches, additional range is no longer coming mainly from the hip.
Technique overview
Move the leg without arching
Face the machine, hold a stable support, and begin with the cuffed leg slightly forward. Move the leg straight backward while keeping the torso and pelvis controlled. Pause briefly, then return slowly. Keep a soft knee rather than locking it forcefully, and reduce the range if the lower back begins to move.
Treat this as an overview and use a range, pace, and setup you can control.