Butt Kicks
Exercise 0146 is an exercise for legs, thighs, calves, and core that uses body weight to build useful training quality through controlled movement. Butt Kicks are a bodyweight aerobic drill where the heels rhythmically lift toward the glutes. The main goal is to perform each repetition with enough control that the target area, posture, and breathing stay consistent from the first rep to the last.
The primary emphasis is hamstrings, while calves, quads, glutes, and core assist with stability and clean execution. In anatomy terms, the main work centers on the hamstrings, with help from Gastrocnemius, Quadriceps, Gluteus maximus, and Rectus abdominis. They are useful for warming up, conditioning, and preparing the hamstrings and legs for faster movement.
A strong set starts with the setup, because the starting position determines whether the rest of the repetition feels stable or rushed. Stand tall with your feet under your hips. Begin jogging lightly in place. Lift one heel toward your glutes, then switch sides. Keep the body organized before you move so the working muscles can guide the exercise instead of momentum taking over.
During the repetition, use the instructions as direct coaching cues rather than trying to force a bigger range than you can control. Keep a steady rhythm with your arms moving naturally. Continue for the target time while staying upright. Continue for the target time while staying upright.
The best training effect comes from clean, repeatable reps rather than rushing for a higher count. Land softly on the balls of your feet. Keep your chest tall. Start slowly before increasing speed. Do not kick so hard that your lower back arches.
Use Exercise 0146 in the part of the workout where focused technique and controlled tension fit your goal, such as a warmup, accessory block, core session, or targeted strength circuit. Use relaxed arm motion. They mainly involve the hamstrings, with help from the calves, quads, glutes, and core. They do not have to.
Instructions
- Stand tall with your feet under your hips.
- Begin jogging lightly in place.
- Lift one heel toward your glutes, then switch sides.
- Keep a steady rhythm with your arms moving naturally.
- Continue for the target time while staying upright.
Tips & Tricks
- Land softly on the balls of your feet.
- Keep your chest tall.
- Start slowly before increasing speed.
- Do not kick so hard that your lower back arches.
- Use relaxed arm motion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are butt kicks good for?
They are useful for warming up, conditioning, and preparing the hamstrings and legs for faster movement.
What muscles do they work?
They mainly involve the hamstrings, with help from the calves, quads, glutes, and core.
Should my heels touch my glutes?
They do not have to. Aim for a comfortable, quick heel lift with good posture.


