Exercise guide
Resistance Band Hip Thrusts On Knees
- Beginner
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Lower legs
- Upper legs
- Waist
This exercise isolates the glutes by utilizing a resistance band to provide peak tension at the point of full hip extension. It is highly effective for building glute strength and mind-muscle connection while minimizing lower back involvement.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Anchor a resistance band to a low, sturdy point behind you, such as the leg of a flat bench.
- Kneel on a padded mat facing away from the anchor point with your knees hip-width apart.
- Step into the band and position it securely across the crease of your hips.
- Walk forward until there is noticeable tension on the band even when sitting back toward your heels.
How to do it
- Exhale and drive your hips forward by squeezing your glutes until your torso is fully upright and aligned with your thighs.
- Hold the peak contraction for one second, focusing on a maximum glute squeeze against the band's resistance.
- Inhale and slowly hinge at the hips to sit back toward your heels, controlling the band's pull.
- Maintain a controlled 2-1-2 tempo (2 seconds down, 1 second pause, 2 seconds up).
Form checklist
- Keep your core braced and your spine neutral; do not arch your lower back at the top.
- Ensure the movement comes entirely from the hips, not by leaning your torso back.
- Keep your gaze forward or slightly down to maintain a neutral neck position.
- Maintain constant tension on the band throughout the entire range of motion.
Pro tips
- Perform a slight posterior pelvic tilt (tuck your tailbone) at the top of the movement to fully shorten the glute fibers.
- Drive your knees into the floor and slightly outward to increase engagement of the gluteus medius.
Make it harder
- Increase the resistance by using a thicker band or moving further away from the anchor point.
- Add a 3-5 second isometric hold at the top of every repetition to maximize time under tension.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the resistance band hip thrusts on knees work?
- The resistance band hip thrusts on knees primarily targets the glutes and hamstrings, and also works the abs and obliques as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the resistance band hip thrusts on knees?
- The resistance band hip thrusts on knees uses resistance band.
- Is the resistance band hip thrusts on knees good for beginners?
- Yes. The resistance band hip thrusts on knees is a beginner-friendly movement and a strong foundation to build on.
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