# Hip Thrust The loaded glute bridge — shoulders on a bench, barbell across the hips, drive the hips up to a straight line. - **Category:** Main circuit - **Type:** Free-weight hip extension - **Targets:** Glutes, hamstrings - **Prescription:** 4 × 8–10 ## Setup Sit on the floor with your upper back against a bench, the bar (padded) across your hips, hands steadying it. Feet flat, hip-width, heels under the knees. ## Execution 1. Brace, tuck the chin, and drive through the heels to lift the hips. 2. Stop when shoulders, hips and knees are level — a flat tabletop. 3. Squeeze the glutes at the top, then lower the hips under control. ## Cues - Chin tucked, ribs down — the body hinges around the bench edge. - Full lockout comes from the glutes, not from arching the back. - Shins vertical at the top; adjust foot distance until they are. ## Common Mistakes - Overarching the lower back instead of finishing with the glutes. - Feet too far forward, turning it into a hamstring exercise. - Cutting the range short at the top. ## Progression Start with the bar alone to groove the pattern, then add plates; pause reps at the top for extra glute work.