Hip Hinge (Band)

Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
bands
Category
strength
Primary Muscles

A posterior chain exercise where you hinge at the hips against band resistance, primarily targeting the hamstrings and glutes.

Instructions

  1. Stand on a resistance band with feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Grasp the ends of the band with an overhand grip at hip height.
  3. Keep a slight bend in your knees throughout the movement.
  4. Hinge at the hips, pushing your glutes backward while maintaining a neutral spine.
  5. Lower your torso until you feel a strong hamstring stretch, typically until your torso is nearly parallel to the ground.
  6. Drive through your heels to return to the standing position, squeezing your glutes at the top.

Tips

  • Keep your chest proud and your back flat; avoid rounding your lower back.
  • The movement originates from the hips, not the knees; minimal knee bend prevents quad involvement.
  • Maintain band tension throughout the entire range of motion.
  • This exercise builds significant posterior chain strength and is foundational for deadlifts.
  • Keep your core engaged to maintain spinal stability and protect your lower back.
  • Perform this exercise 2-3 times per week for optimal posterior chain development.

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

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