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Machine Hip Thrust

Strengthen your glutes with the machine hip thrust! Build a stronger, more defined posterior with this effective exercise.

The Machine Hip Thrust is a compound exercise that mainly works the glutes & hips and hamstrings, with help from the core, hip abductors (outer thighs) and lower back. You'll need: hip thrust machine.

Machine Hip Thrust demo video 2
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Required Equipment

Hip Thrust Machine
Hip Thrust Machine

Machine Hip Thrust Muscles Worked

Primary

Glutes (gluteus maximus); Hamstrings

Secondary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Spinal Erectors (erector spinae)

How to do the Machine Hip Thrust

Lever Hip Thrust Instructions

Equipment Needed:

  • Lever hip thrust machine or a barbell with a padded surface

  • Weight plates (if using a barbell)

  • Footplate or bench for positioning

Starting Position:

  1. Sit on the lever hip thrust machine with your back resting against the padded support. Your feet should be flat on the footplate.

  2. Adjust the machine so that your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle and your hips are aligned with the pivot point of the lever.

  3. If using a barbell, position it across your hips and ensure it’s secured with a pad to prevent discomfort.

Movement:

  1. Starting from a seated position, push through your heels and lift your hips upwards. The movement should be driven by your glutes and hamstrings.

  2. Keep your core engaged and your back straight throughout the movement. Avoid arching your lower back.

  3. Raise your hips until your body forms a straight line from your shoulders to your knees at the top of the movement.

  4. Pause for a moment at the top, squeezing your glutes tightly.

  5. Slowly lower your hips back down to the starting position, keeping control of the movement.

Repetitions:

  • Aim for 10-15 repetitions, resting for 30-60 seconds between sets. Start with 2-3 sets and increase as you become more comfortable.

Tips:

  • Ensure your knees do not extend beyond your toes during the upward movement.

  • Focus on using your glutes rather than your lower back to lift the weight.

  • Feel free to adjust the weight based on your fitness level; begin with lighter weights until you master the form.

Machine Hip Thrust FAQs

What muscles does the Machine Hip Thrust work?

The Machine Hip Thrust mainly works the glutes & hips and hamstrings, with help from the core, hip abductors (outer thighs) and lower back. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and hamstrings.

What equipment do you need for the Machine Hip Thrust?

Hip thrust machine.

Is the Machine Hip Thrust a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What workout day should the Machine Hip Thrust go on?

It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Machine Hip Thrust variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Barbell Elevated Hip Heel Thrust, Elevated Hip Leg Thrust, Lever Romanian Belt Deadlift and Lever Deadlift.

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