Glutes · Isolation movement

Seated Glute Stretch

A isolation exercise that targets the glutes with secondary work in adductors. Performed with bodyweight.

Primary muscle

Glutes

Secondary muscles

Adductors

Equipment

Bodyweight

Difficulty

Beginner

How to perform the Seated Glute Stretch

  1. Sit tall with both legs extended, then cross one foot over and plant it flat outside the opposite knee.
  2. Hug the raised knee toward the opposite shoulder, or brace the opposite elbow against the outside of that knee.
  3. Sit up out of any slump so the twist and the glute stretch stay clean, feeling the pull in the buttock of the crossed leg.
  4. Hold and breathe, then unwind slowly and repeat on the other side.

Suggested working range: 2045 reps. Default progression: manual.

Common mistakes

  • Slumping the spine into a C-shape instead of sitting tall so the glute stretch turns into a back stretch.
  • Forcing the twist from the neck rather than rotating gently through the torso.
  • Pulling the crossed knee in with a jerk instead of a slow, controlled draw toward the shoulder.

Variations & alternatives

Swap in a related movement if equipment, recovery, or progression demands it.

Use this exercise in a program

The Seated Glute Stretch fits naturally into hypertrophy and strength splits that prioritize glutes volume.

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