Also known as: Hip bridge, supine bridge
Beginner
Bodyweight
Glute and hip strengthening
Description
The glute bridge is a fundamental hip extension exercise that targets the posterior chain, particularly the gluteal muscles. It's a compound movement that serves as both a strength-building and activation exercise, ideal for beginners while offering progression potential for advanced athletes.
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Overview
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Prerequisites
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Execution
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Safety
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Progressions
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Pro Tips
Overview
Benefits
Physical Benefits
- Gluteal muscle development and activation, crucial for proper hip function and lower body strength
- Enhanced posterior pelvic tilt control, helping to address anterior pelvic tilt issues
- Improved lower back stability through proper core engagement and spinal positioning
Performance Benefits
- Better hip extension power for activities like running, jumping, and lifting
- Increased awareness and control of pelvic positioning
- Enhanced neuromuscular connection to the glutes, improving athletic performance
Unique Benefits
- Accessible exercise that can be performed anywhere without equipment
- Excellent exercise for "waking up" inactive glutes due to prolonged sitting
- Serves as both a corrective exercise and a strength builder
Muscles Worked
Primary Muscles
- Gluteus Maximus
- Gluteus Medius
- Hamstrings
Secondary Muscles
- Core muscles (rectus abdominis, transverse abdominis)
- Erector spinae (lower back)
- Hip adductors and abductors (stabilization)
Prerequisites
Prerequisites
Equipment Needed:
Yoga Mat (Optional)
Physical Requirements
- Basic core control and awareness
- Ability to lie supine (on back) comfortably
- Sufficient hip mobility to achieve full extension
Prior Knowledge
- Understanding of neutral spine position
- Basic body awareness and ability to engage core
- Knowledge of posterior pelvic tilt
Execution
Execution
Starting Position
- Lie supine on a flat surface
- Knees bent approximately 90 degrees, feet flat on ground hip-width apart
- Arms resting at sides, palms down
- Neutral spine with natural curve in lower back
Movement Pattern
- Begin in starting position with core engaged
- Push through heels to lift hips off ground
- Continue lifting until hips are fully extended, forming straight line from shoulders to knees
- Hold position briefly at top, focusing on glute squeeze
- Lower hips back to starting position with control
Form Cues
- Maintain neutral spine throughout movement
- Focus on squeezing glutes to lift hips
- Feel the stretch in hip flexors during extension
Safety
Safety
Common Mistakes
Overarching lower back
What it looks like: Excessive curve in lumbar spine
Why it's problematic: Reduces glute activation, stresses lower back
How to correct it: Focus on posterior pelvic tilt, engage core
Insufficient hip extension
Looks like: Hips don't reach full height
Why it's problematic: Reduces exercise effectiveness
How to correct: Focus on pushing hips higher, squeeze glutes harder
DO NOT PERFORM IF....
- Acute lower back injuries
- Recent hip injuries
- Inability to maintain neutral spine
Progressions
Progressions
Beginner:
- Basic bodyweight glute bridge
- Focus on proper form and glute activation
Intermediate:
- Single-leg glute bridge
- Increase hold time at top position
Advanced:
- Elevated feet on bench
- Single-leg weighted variations
Pro Tips
Pro Tips
Technical Mastery
- Experiment with foot position to find optimal glute activation
- Practice isometric holds at top position
- Use tactile feedback by placing hands on glutes
Programming Tips
- Perform as part of warm-up routine
- Use higher reps (15-20) for activation
- Use lower reps (8-12) with weight for strength
- Great exercise to superset with hip flexor stretches
Expert Insights
- - Can be used as assessment tool for glute activation
- Excellent exercise for injury rehabilitation
- Perfect morning movement to combat sitting effects