Top 5 Glute Workouts for Women: Build a Stronger, Shapelier Lower Body
Grow a stronger, shapelier lower body by combining targeted glute exercises with hamstring-focused movements. This evidence-based approach maximizes results while supporting athletic performance and injury prevention.
Why Train Glutes and Hamstrings Together:
- Many exercises naturally recruit both muscle groups
- Strong hamstrings enhance glute definition and athletic ability
- Efficient gym time management through supersets
- Additional glute activation during quad-focused workouts
Woman performing hamstring workout at gym
Key Glute-Building Exercises:
- Primary Movements (Gluteus Maximus):
- Deadlifts (conventional and Romanian)
- Sumo squats
- Hip thrusts
- Glute bridges
- Bulgarian split squats
- Lunges (forward, backward, curtsy)
- Glute-ham raises
- Targeting Gluteus Medius:
- Frog pumps
- Lateral band walks
- Side lunges
- Cable/band hip extensions
- Fire hydrants
- Single-leg variations
woman performing forward lunge exercise
Workout Programs:
Glutes and Hamstrings Superset Workout:
- Use 75% of your one-rep max
- Focus on compound movements
- Alternate between glute and hamstring exercises
Hamstring-Focus Workout:
- Emphasizes heavy hamstring movements
- Incorporates bodyweight and banded glute exercises
- Maximizes muscle activation through varied movements
Home Butt-Building Workout:
- Three challenging tri-sets
- Combines lunges and Bulgarian split squats
- Includes isolation exercises like ball hamstring curls
- Emphasizes single-leg movements
Important Notes:
- Maintain proper form throughout exercises
- Ensure adequate calorie and protein intake
- Allow proper recovery between workouts
- Progress gradually to prevent injury
- Consistency is key for optimal results