The largest muscle of the buttocks is the gluteus maximus. It is supported by the gluteus minimus and medimus. When people refer to the glutes they are usually referring to the maximus, which comprises most of the buttock. Exercising this muscle requires contracting it, which is done when the legs are extended. The following exercises achieve that contraction and can be made more challenging by increasing weight and/or the number of reps that you do.
Leg Press
The leg press allows you to lift heavy weight in a controlled manner since the machine is providing support. There are two main variations of the leg press machine, one in which you lie on your back either parallel to the floor or at a decline and push a weight plate with your feet and legs, and another in which you stand upright with weight pads on your shoulders that bear the weight as you bend and straighten your legs. When using the leg press, no matter which form, be sure not to lock your knees when you extend your legs.
Squat
A squat can be performed with a barbell or dumbbells. Unlike with the leg press, your motion here is to lower and raise your body, not push against a resistance. Weight can be carried in front of your collarbones, by your sides, or across your shoulders. If you are lifting heavy weight you should ask for the assistance of a spotter to avoid accidents. Squats not only work your glutes, but also your quads.
Lunge
A lunge is exactly what it sounds like. While holding dumbbells by your sides or at your shoulders, take a large step forward and lower your body until your back knee almost touches the floor. Step back and repeat with the other leg. A variation is to continue lunging across the floor with alternating legs without taking a step backward (obviously you'll need the space to do this). The lunge primarily works the glutes with some help from the quads and hamstrings.
Deadlifts
Deadlifts require the use of a barbell. There are variations of this exercise such as the sumo, which calls for a wide stance, and the straight-legged deadlift, which you do on a raised platform to keep your legs straight as you lower the weight past your toes. Deadlifts can be an intense exercise if you load up the barbell with weight. It is a popular exercise for competition weight lifters.
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