Smith Machine Hip Thrust

Smith-machine variation: the guided path reduces stabilization demands and lets you focus overload on the target muscle.

• Compound
• Machine
• Beginner

How to do it

• Align your body with the fixed path before unlocking the bar
• Keep support and tension constant throughout the range
• Set the safety stops before training close to failure

Sets, reps and tempo

Ranges: 8–15 reps · 0–2 RIR

Tempo: Drive up for 1 s to full extension, squeeze 1–2 s at the top, lower for 2 s

Common mistakes

• Forcing a setup that does not fit the machine path
• Bouncing against the stops or losing tension at the end of the range

Muscles worked

Primary

• Glutes

Secondary

• Hamstrings
• Quads

Alternatives

• Hip Thrust
• Cable Glute Kickback
• Barbell Back Squat
• Romanian Deadlift