TETSUBand Squat Row vs Swimmer Kicks
The Band Squat Row and the Swimmer Kicks both train the glutes as their primary muscle. The Band Squat Row uses a band while the Swimmer Kicks are bodyweight-only. Here is how they compare and when to pick each.
Side-by-side comparison
| Band Squat Row | Swimmer Kicks | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary muscle | glutes | glutes |
| Body part | upper legs | upper legs |
| Supporting muscles | hamstrings, quadriceps and back | hamstrings, quadriceps and calves |
| Equipment | band | bodyweight |
| Steps in our guide | 7 | 5 |
How each one starts
Band Squat Row — first steps
- Attach the band to a sturdy anchor point at waist height.
- Stand facing the anchor point with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Swimmer Kicks — first steps
- Lie face down on a mat with your arms extended overhead.
- Engage your core and lift your chest and legs off the ground simultaneously.
Full step-by-step guides are linked below.
Which should you choose?
The Band Squat Row gives accommodating resistance that peaks at the top of the range. The Swimmer Kicks need no equipment and scale through leverage, tempo and reps. If your gym has both options, neither is a wrong choice: pick the one that feels strongest through a full range, and swap after 6 to 8 weeks to keep the glutes adapting.
Full form guides
Common questions
Is the Band Squat Row better than the Swimmer Kicks?
Neither is universally better — both train the glutes as the primary mover. The Band Squat Row gives accommodating resistance that peaks at the top of the range, while the Swimmer Kicks need no equipment and scale through leverage, tempo and reps. Choose based on your equipment and which movement you can progress consistently.
Can I do both the Band Squat Row and the Swimmer Kicks in the same program?
Yes, but usually not in the same session — they overlap heavily on the glutes. A common setup is one as your main movement and the other on a second training day, or alternating them block by block.
Do the Band Squat Row and the Swimmer Kicks work the same muscles?
The primary muscle is the same: the glutes. Supporting muscles differ slightly — hamstrings, quadriceps and back for the Band Squat Row versus hamstrings, quadriceps and calves for the Swimmer Kicks.
Track it in Tetsu
Tetsu tracks both movements separately, keeps your PRs per exercise, and tells you which one is actually progressing. Free to start.