Quick Answer
Incline Glute Bridge is a beginner strength exercise that targets your glutes and hamstrings. It uses only your bodyweight. Lie on back, knees bent.
Video Tutorial
How to Perform the Incline Glute Bridge
- 1
Lie on back, knees bent.
- 2
Place feet flat on an elevated surface (bench, step) hip-width apart.
- 3
Place arms at sides, palms down.
- 4
Engage core and glutes.
- 5
Press through heels to lift hips towards ceiling.
- 6
Form a straight line from shoulders (on floor) to knees.
- 7
Squeeze glutes hard at the top. Hold briefly.
- 8
Slowly lower hips back down with control.
- 9
Repeat for desired repetitions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- !Rushing reps instead of controlling the lowering (eccentric) phase — aim for 2–3 seconds down.
- !Letting form break down as reps add up. Stop the set when technique slips, not when you physically can't do another rep.
- !Letting knees cave inward (valgus) — track them in line with your second toe throughout the rep.
Tips for Better Form
- ✓Breathe out during the effort (concentric) and breathe in on the return (eccentric).
- ✓Use a mirror or film yourself on your first session — your perceived form and actual form often differ.
- ✓Brace your core as if someone were about to punch you in the stomach. This stabilizes your spine in every rep.
- ✓Don't worry about load — master the movement pattern with light weight or easier variations first.
Alternative Exercises
If the Incline Glute Bridge isn't right for your body, equipment, or goal, try these similar exercises that hit the same muscle groups:
Frequently Asked Questions
What muscles does the Incline Glute Bridge work?
The Incline Glute Bridge primarily works your glutes and hamstrings. Secondary muscles include the lower back and abdominals.
What equipment do I need for the Incline Glute Bridge?
The Incline Glute Bridge needs no equipment — just your bodyweight. You can perform it at home or at the gym as long as you have what's listed.
Is the Incline Glute Bridge suitable for beginners?
Yes. The Incline Glute Bridge is a beginner-level exercise. Start with lighter load or fewer reps and focus on form before adding intensity.
How many sets and reps of Incline Glute Bridge should I do?
For strength: 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps with longer rest (2–3 min). For hypertrophy (muscle growth): 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with moderate rest (60–90 sec). For endurance: 2–3 sets of 15+ reps with short rest (30–45 sec). Adjust based on your program and goal.
Can I do the Incline Glute Bridge every day?
No. Muscles need 48 hours to recover between heavy training sessions. If you want to train glutes and hamstrings more frequently, alternate harder and easier variations and keep overall weekly volume moderate.