A firm, shapely butt tops many an exerciser's wish list. Fortunately, the glute muscles aren't difficult to isolate since they're a large muscle group, reports the American Council on Exercise. Having a firmer bottom won't just help you look better in jeans; a strong butt makes a strong back, since the two parts work together.
The Right Routine
Strength-training exercises that target the glutes can firm your buttocks by strengthening the muscles. However, keep in mind that even if you have strong glute muscles, your butt won't feel firm if there's excess fat on top. To banish fat, perform at least 30 minutes of cardio five or more times per week, in addition to two or three weekly strength-training sessions that target the buttocks.
Squat
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, with arms at your sides and a dumbbell in each hand. Lower your body down as if you're going to sit in a chair, stopping when your thighs are parallel to the ground; keep your weight over your heels and don't let your knees go past your toes. Squeeze your glutes as you slowly raise back up to the starting position. Repeat for 15 to 20 reps.
Lunge
Stand with your arms at your sides, holding a dumbbell in each hand. Take a large step forward with your right foot and bend both knees as you lower your left knee toward the floor, stopping before your knee touches the floor; your front heel should be planted firmly on the ground and your front knee should stay over the center of your foot. Return to the starting position by pushing down and forward through your front heel. Repeat on the other side, alternating for eight to 12 repetitions per side.
Quadruped
Begin by positioning yourself on your hands and knees and contracting your abdominals to stabilize your core. Lift your right leg behind you, keeping your knee bent to maintain a 90-degree angle, until your thigh is parallel to your torso and the sole of your foot is facing the ceiling. Lower back down to the starting position and repeat for eight to 12 repetitions before switching to the left leg.
Step-Up
Stand facing a 15-inch step with a dumbbell in each hand. Place your left leg firmly on top of the step and put your weight on the leg. Pushing down through your left heel, straighten your left leg to bring yourself up to the step, using your right leg only for balance. Lower back down and repeat for eight to 12 repetitions before switching to the other leg.
Single-Leg Squat
Stand on top of a step or bench with your weight in your left leg and your right leg hanging off the step. Bend your left knee and push your hips back as you squat down. Rise back up by pushing down through your left heel and repeat for eight to 12 repetitions before switching to the right leg.
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