Standing Hip Thrust (Cable)

Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
cable
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A standing hip thrust using cable resistance to isolate glute activation. Excellent for developing hip extension strength and glute activation without equipment.

Instructions

  1. Stand facing a cable machine with the pulley positioned at hip height behind you.
  2. Attach the cable to a single leg using an ankle attachment or hold the handle.
  3. Keep your standing leg straight and slightly bend the working leg’s knee.
  4. Extend your working hip backward by driving your glute, keeping your torso upright.
  5. Achieve full hip extension at the top of the movement.
  6. Return the leg to the starting position with control.
  7. Complete all reps on one leg before switching sides.

Tips

  • Maintain an upright torso and avoid arching your lower back excessively.
  • This movement provides excellent glute activation and hip extension strength.
  • The constant cable tension ensures engagement throughout the entire range of motion.
  • A split stance with your non-working leg forward provides better stability.
  • Use higher reps (12-15) to maximize glute activation and endurance.

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 Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 3 9 reps 17.5 kg 15 kg
Build muscle 3 13 reps 15 kg 12.5 kg
Build endurance 3 16 reps 12.5 kg 10 kg

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