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Machine Hip Thrust (Glute Bridge)

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Beginner

Machine-based hip extension that targets the glutes and hamstrings to build posterior chain strength; provides stable loading for hypertrophy and power development.

About Exercise

Equipment

Hip Thrust Machine

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Glutes

Secondary Muscles

Quads, Abs, Lower Back

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Power

Training Style

Bodybuilding
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Glutes

10/10

Glute Max, Glute Medius

Hamstrings

7/10

Biceps Femoris, Semitendinosus, Semimembranosus

Quads

4/10

Abs

3/10

Rectus Abdominis

Lower Back

3/10

Erector Spinae

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-120 seconds

How to Perform

Sit in the machine with your upper back against the pad and the belt secured comfortably across your hips. Place feet shoulder-width apart on the platform.

  1. Brace your core and tuck your chin slightly.
  2. Drive through your heels to extend your hips upward.
  3. Squeeze your glutes hard at the top of the movement.
  4. Maintain a neutral spine without hyperextending the lower back.
  5. Lower the hips under control to the starting position.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Chin tucked
  • Ribs down
  • Drive through heels
  • Squeeze glutes
  • Full extension

Breathing

Inhale at the bottom, exhale forcefully as you drive the hips up.

Tempo

2-1-1

Range of Motion

Full hip extension at the top; lower until the glutes hover just above the bottom stop.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Ensure the belt is padded to prevent hip discomfort
  • Avoid arching the lower back excessively at the top

Spotting

Not recommended; use the machine's built-in safety stops.

Common Mistakes

  • Hyperextending lower back
  • Incomplete lockout
  • Feet too far forward
  • Using momentum

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back pain
  • Hip joint issues

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate hip flexion for setup

Build Up First

  • Basic hip extension form
  • Core bracing technique

Also known as

Hip Thrust Machine, Glute Drive Machine, Machine Glute Thrust, Glute Bridge Machine

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