The alternating kettlebell swing is a powerful variation of the traditional kettlebell swing that builds explosive hip extension, posterior chain strength, and conditioning using just a single kettlebell. Learn proper technique, hand-switch mechanics, and how to program this exercise for conditioning, power development, or glute and hamstring hypertrophy. Add this versatile movement to your training and take your kettlebell workouts to the next level.
The band assisted split squat jump is a highly effective unilateral plyometric exercise for developing single-leg power, rate of force development, and reactive strength in athletes. Using a resistance band and pull-up bar, athletes can train two distinct power qualities — reactive bounding or dead stop explosiveness — with just three to five reps per side. Learn proper setup, execution, and programming recommendations for this tool from THIRST Gym’s exercise index.
The offset kettlebell lateral lunge with slider is a powerful adductor strengthening exercise that trains the groin through a long range of motion while also developing glute and hamstring strength in the planted leg. Using an offset kettlebell load combined with a furniture slider, this frontal plane movement builds the lateral hip strength and groin resilience essential for athletes and general fitness clients alike. Learn proper setup, technique, and programming recommendations for this effective lower body exercise from Brandon Smitley at THIRST Gym.
The unsupported hip airplane is a progression of the classic hip airplane drill that builds hip mobility, glute activation, and single-leg stability simultaneously, making it one of the most effective dynamic warm-up exercises for athletes and lifters. By removing external support, this variation forces your foot, ankle, and deep hip stabilizers to work in coordination while your hip rotates through its full range of motion. Add five to ten reps per side before squats, deadlifts, or any athletic activity to prime your hips and feel the difference immediately.
The high knees to stick drill is a beginner-friendly speed development exercise that teaches athletes proper knee drive, arm mechanics, and sprint technique through deliberate, position-focused repetition. By pausing at the top of each movement pattern, athletes learn to feel and replicate the 90/90 position that drives efficient acceleration mechanics. Add this drill to your speed training warm-up to build faster, more powerful athletes from the ground up.
The TRX inverted row with hamstring curl is a bodyweight hamstring exercise that trains the muscle across both knee flexion and hip extension, delivering a superior contraction compared to the stability ball leg curl — no machine required. By maintaining an extended hip position throughout the movement, this suspension trainer variation places greater functional demand on the hamstrings and transfers well to athletic performance. Learn how to set it up, perform it correctly, and program it as an effective accessory exercise for your lower body training.
The kickstand goblet squat is a quad-dominant squat variation that uses a staggered stance to emphasize one leg at a time — with nothing more than a single dumbbell or kettlebell. Learn proper setup, technique, and programming for this effective unilateral accessory exercise. Perfect for garage gym athletes, beginners, and anyone looking to add single-leg quad work without machines.
The cable Zercher RDL is a beginner-friendly hip hinge variation that uses a cable machine and tricep extension bar to target the glutes and hamstrings in the stretched position. Whether you’re a new lifter learning the hip hinge pattern or an experienced athlete looking for a fresh posterior chain accessory exercise, this movement delivers consistent tension and quality muscle stimulus. Learn proper setup, technique, and programming recommendations in this complete exercise breakdown from THIRST Gym.
Band resisted plate hops combine traditional plyometric training with accommodating resistance to develop tendon stiffness, ankle complex strength, and the rapid foot speed essential for athletic performance. This low-intensity, high-volume variation provides effective tendon conditioning for athletes returning from injury or building foundational reactive strength without the impact stress of traditional plyometric exercises.
The barbell Zercher RDL is a front-loaded hip hinge variation that builds posterior chain strength while improving upper back development and core stability. This exercise proves particularly effective for desk workers with tight hips and compressed posture, as the counterbalance position facilitates better hip hinge mechanics and access to hamstring and glute engagement that traditional Romanian deadlifts may not provide.