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Exercise Guide

How to do machine hipthrust

Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.

The machine hipthrust is a specialized version of the hip thrust designed to isolate and strengthen the gluteus maximus. The machine provides stability and allows for easy loading of heavy weights without the discomfort of a barbell on the hips. It is widely considered one of the most effective exercises for building glute size and power, improving both aesthetics and athletic performance.

Stats

TIER
1
DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Hip Thrust Machine
TARGET MUSCLES
Glutes

Instructions for Proper Form

Setup:

  1. Machine Adjustment: Adjust the back pad of the hip thrust machine to your desired angle. (Typically, you'll want the pad to sit right below your shoulder blades.)
  2. Foot Placement: Place your feet flat on the platform, about shoulder-width apart, heels close to your glutes.
  3. Seat Adjustment: Adjust the seat so that your hips are slightly below your knees when seated.
  4. Secure Yourself: Buckle the strap securely across your hips.

The Lift:

  1. Initiate the Thrust: Drive through your heels and extend your hips upwards, keeping your back flat against the pad. Your body should form a straight line from your shoulders to your knees at the top of the movement.
  2. Squeeze at the Top: Contract your glutes hard at the top for a brief pause.
  3. Controlled Lowering: Slowly lower your hips back down to the starting position, resisting the weight as you descend.

Tips:

  • Focus on the Glutes: Think about squeezing your glutes rather than hyperextending your back.
  • Drive Through the Heels: Maintain pressure on your heels throughout the movement for maximum glute activation.
  • Head Position: Keep your head neutral and avoid looking up as you thrust.
  • Foot Placement: You can experiment with foot positioning to find what works best for you. Some people prefer a slightly wider stance for more glute activation.

Variations:

  • Single-Leg Machine Hip Thrust: Increases the difficulty and can help address any muscle imbalances.

Common mistakes: Not achieving full hip extension and placing feet too high on the platform.

Alternatives

Hip Thrust Machine

machine hipthrust

Glutes
Bench

barbell hip thrust

Glutes
Bench

bench glute bridge

Glutes
Barbell

barbell clean deadlift

GlutesHamstrings+1
Resistance Band

resistance band lateral walk

Glutes
Resistance Band

resistance band clam shell

Glutes
Bench

single leg hip thrust

Glutes
Barbell

barbell rack pull

GlutesHamstrings
Cable

cable pull through

GlutesHamstrings
Kettlebell

kettlebell swing

GlutesHamstrings+2
Cable

cable hip adduction

Glutes
Seated Hip Adduction Machine

seated hip adduction

Glutes
Seated Hip Abduction Machine

seated hip abduction

Glutes
Back Extension Machine

machine back extension

Glutes
Bench

glute bridge on bench

Glutes
Bench

dumbbell bulgarian split squat

GlutesQuads
Back Extension

back extension(hyperextension)

GlutesHamstrings
Jump Box

box jump

GlutesQuads+2