Glute Bridge (Dumbbell)
A lower body exercise using a dumbbell placed across the hips to strengthen the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back.
Instructions
- Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, positioned about hip-width apart. Place a dumbbell across your hips and hold it in place with both hands.
- Press through your heels and drive your hips upward until your body forms a straight line from your knees to your shoulders.
- Squeeze your glutes hard at the top position, ensuring full hip extension is achieved.
- Hold the top position briefly while maintaining the contraction.
- Lower your hips back down in a controlled manner until your glutes lightly touch the floor.
- Repeat for the target number of repetitions.
Tips
- Focus on squeezing your glutes at the top of each repetition for maximum activation.
- Keep your neck neutral and press your upper back into the floor throughout the movement.
- Drive through your heels rather than your toes to maintain proper alignment.
- A brief pause at the top enhances mind-muscle connection with the glutes.
- Breathe in as you lower your hips and exhale as you push them up.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 7 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps |
Alternatives
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