Target
Glutes (primary)
Hamstrings (secondary)
Core stabilization
Setup
Upper back placed firmly on bench
Barbell centered across hips (use pad if needed)
Feet shoulder-width
Shins vertical at lockout
Execution
Drive through heels
Extend hips until torso is parallel to floor
Pause and squeeze glutes 1–2 seconds at top
Lower under control for 2–3 seconds
Do not hyperextend lower back
Programming
Strength
5 sets × 5 reps
2–3 minutes rest
Hypertrophy
4 sets × 8–12 reps
90 seconds rest
Finisher
1 set × 20 reps
Immediately followed by 20-second isometric hold at the top
Coaching Cues
Ribs down
Chin tucked
Drive through heels
Full glute lockout