Machine Hip Thrust

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Beginner

Machine-based hip extension exercise that targets the glutes and hamstrings to build strength and power; provides stable loading for glute development across fitness levels.

About Exercise

Equipment

Hip Thrust Machine

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Glutes

Secondary Muscles

Quads, Abs, Lower Back

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Power

Training Style

Bodybuilding
Functional Training

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

7/10

Biceps Femoris, Semitendinosus, Semimembranosus

Quads

4/10

Abs

3/10

Rectus Abdominis

Lower Back

3/10

Erector Spinae

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-120 seconds

How to Perform

Sit on the hip thrust machine with your upper back against the pad and the belt across your hips. Place feet flat on the platform shoulder-width apart and unrack the weight by engaging your core.

  1. Brace core and tuck chin.
  2. Drive through heels to lift hips upward.
  3. Squeeze glutes at full extension.
  4. Pause briefly at top.
  5. Lower hips controlled back to start.
  6. Repeat for reps without resting hips fully.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Drive through heels
  • Squeeze glutes hard
  • Neutral spine always
  • Tuck ribs down
  • Feet flat and stable

Breathing

Inhale as you lower hips, exhale forcefully during the upward drive while bracing your core.

Tempo

2-1-1

Range of Motion

From hips at 90-degree knee angle to full hip extension where knees, hips, and shoulders align in a straight line.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Adjust machine for proper alignment to avoid hip discomfort
  • Use padding under belt to prevent bruising
  • Avoid hyperextending spine
  • Start with light weight to master form
  • Ensure feet placement targets glutes without knee pain

Spotting

Spotting not needed on guided machine; use safety catches if available.

Common Mistakes

  • Arching lower back at top
  • Using momentum to lift
  • Letting hips slam down
  • Feet too high on platform
  • Neck strain from looking up

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back pain
  • Hip joint issues

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate hip flexion for setup

Build Up First

  • Basic hip extension form
  • Core bracing technique

Also known as

Hip Thrust Machine, Glute Drive Machine, Machine Glute Thrust

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