Hip Thrust (Band)
A powerful glute-focused exercise using band resistance to drive hip extension, primarily activating the glute muscles.
Instructions
- Loop a resistance band around your hips at waist level and secure the other end to a low anchor point in front of you.
- Sit upright on a bench or step, keeping your feet flat on the floor, shoulder-width apart.
- Lean slightly forward and engage your core.
- Explosively drive through your feet, thrusting your hips forward and straightening your torso.
- Squeeze your glutes maximally at the top position.
- Lower back to the starting position with control and repeat for the desired reps.
Tips
- Focus on driving through your heels rather than your toes.
- Keep your chest tall throughout; avoid excessive backward lean.
- The movement is primarily hip extension; minimize knee extension contribution.
- Band tension should increase as you extend your hips.
- This is an excellent exercise for glute strength, power development, and athletic performance.
- Perform 8-12 reps per set for optimal hypertrophy and strength gains.
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
Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.
Feet Elevated Hip Thrust
Learn more about feet elevated hip thrust intermediate strength
Glute Bridge (Band)
Learn more about glute bridge (band) beginner strength
Glute Bridge (Dumbbell)
Learn more about glute bridge (dumbbell) beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
Hip Thrust
Learn more about hip thrust intermediate strength
Hip Thrust (Cable)
Learn more about hip thrust (cable) intermediate strength
Hip Thrust (Dumbbell)
Learn more about hip thrust (dumbbell) intermediate strength
Hip Thrust (Smith Machine)
Learn more about hip thrust (smith machine) beginner strength
Hip Thrust (Trap Bar)
Learn more about hip thrust (trap bar) beginner strength
Kettlebell Swing Alternative (Band)
Learn more about kettlebell swing alternative (band) beginner strength
beginner strength
Quadruped Hip Extension
Learn more about quadruped hip extension beginner strength
Single Leg Glute Bridge (Band)
Learn more about single leg glute bridge (band) beginner strength
beginner strength