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Foam Roller Glute Release

Beginner
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Foam roller glute release uses body weight on a roller to massage gluteal muscles, targeting glutes and piriformis to reduce tightness and improve hip mobility; ideal for recovery and warm-ups.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

1/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Glutes

Secondary Muscles

Hamstrings

Accessory Muscles

Hip Flexors

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Mobility
Rehab

Training Style

Mobility Flow
Warm-up

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Glutes

10/10

Glute Max, Glute Medius

Hamstrings

3/10

Hip Flexors

2/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

1-1 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds • Rest as needed between sides

How to Perform

Sit on the foam roller with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place hands behind for support.

  1. Cross one ankle over the opposite knee to target one glute.
  2. Shift weight toward the crossed leg to apply pressure.
  3. Roll slowly back and forth over the glute area using hands and foot for control.
  4. Pause on tender spots for 20-30 seconds with deep breaths.
  5. Switch sides after 30-60 seconds.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Breathe deeply
  • Control pressure with hands
  • Pause on tight spots
  • Maintain core stability
  • Avoid sharp pain

Breathing

Inhale deeply through the nose and exhale slowly through the mouth to relax muscles during rolling.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Roll from the top of the glutes to the sit bone area, avoiding bony prominences and joints.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid direct pressure on tailbone or hip bones
  • Stop if sharp pain, numbness, or tingling occurs
  • Do not roll over active injuries or bruises
  • Start with light pressure and build gradually
  • Consult professional for underlying issues

Spotting

No spotting required; perform solo with caution.

Common Mistakes

  • Rolling over bones or joints
  • Excessive pressure causing sharp pain
  • Uneven weight distribution
  • Holding breath during roll

When to Avoid

  • Acute glute or hip injuries
  • Recent muscle strains or tears
  • Bone fractures in hips or pelvis
  • Nerve irritation symptoms

Flexibility Needed

  • Basic hip flexion to sit comfortably

Also known as

Glute Foam Roll, Foam Rolling Glutes, Butt Foam Roller Massage

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