Appears in642 Workouts*

Single-Leg Hip Thrust

Build a stronger, sculpted lower body! The Single-Leg Hip Thrust isolates & strengthens each side for maximum glute gains. Level up your workout!

The Single-Leg Hip Thrust is a compound exercise that mainly works the glutes & hips and hamstrings, with help from the core. You'll need: exercise bench.

Single-Leg Hip Thrust demo video 2
Mr. Grey
JustGains_XY
@JustGains_XY

Required Equipment

Exercise Bench
Exercise Bench

Single-Leg Hip Thrust Muscles Worked

Primary

Glutes (gluteus maximus); Hamstrings

Secondary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)

How to do the Single-Leg Hip Thrust

  1. Starting Position:

    • Sit on the edge of the bench with your upper back supported.

    • Place your feet flat on the ground, about shoulder-width apart.

    • Lean back slightly, keeping your back straight and chest up.

  2. Foot Placement:

    • Lift one foot off the ground, keeping your knee bent, and position it at about a 90-degree angle.

    • Your lifted foot should be close to your other leg, but not touching.

  3. Engaging the Core:

    • Tighten your abdominal muscles to maintain stability throughout the movement.

    • Keep your shoulders back and relaxed.

  4. Movement:

    • Push through your heel of the grounded foot to lift your hips towards the ceiling.

    • Focus on squeezing your glutes at the top of the movement.

    • Your body should form a straight line from your shoulders to your knees.

  5. Lowering:

    • Slowly lower your hips back down to the starting position without letting your foot touch the ground.

    • Maintain control throughout the movement.

  6. Repetitions:

    • Perform 10-15 repetitions on one leg, then switch to the other leg.

    • Aim for 2-3 sets per leg depending on your fitness level.

  7. Breathing:

    • Exhale as you lift your hips and inhale as you lower back down.

Tips:

  • Keep your movements slow and controlled to ensure proper form.

  • If this is your first time, you can place your hands on the bench for additional support.

  • Focus on your glute muscles during the exercise for maximum effectiveness.

Single-Leg Hip Thrust FAQs

What muscles does the Single-Leg Hip Thrust work?

The Single-Leg Hip Thrust mainly works the glutes & hips and hamstrings, with help from the core. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and hamstrings.

What equipment do you need for the Single-Leg Hip Thrust?

Exercise bench.

Is the Single-Leg 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 Single-Leg Hip Thrust go on?

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

What are some Single-Leg Hip Thrust variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Single-Leg Reverse 45-Degree Hyperextension, Barbell Single-Leg Elevated Hip Heel Thrust, Dumbbell Staggered Hip Thrust and Elevated Hip Leg Thrust.

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