If you’re looking for the best glute machines in the market right now, you’re in the right place!
From leg press machines to cardio equipment, check out our handpicked list of top exercise machines for glutes below:
Best GHD (Glute Ham Developer)
When looking for a GHD, aim for a glute machine that promises durability and has a sturdy frame. GHDs don’t come cheap, so you best look for one that’ll last you a few decades, if not more!
It’s important to pay attention to the glute machine’s brand name and reputation. Also, consider the material it’s made from – high gauge steel is a smart choice, and MGI welding provides added durability.
If the GHD’s ankle and thigh rollers contain ample padding – and possibly even moisture-resistant upholstery – go for it!
Below is a collection of the best GHDs currently available in the market:
1. Rogue Fitness GH-1 GHD
Rogue Fitness is known for its well-sought-after line of butt workout machines, including the Rogue Fitness GH-1 GHD exercise machine.
What sets this machine apart from competitor GHDs is its robust build that offers remarkable durability and comfort.
Nothing less than sheer excellence should be expected from this American-made product that was carved from high-quality US steel. The Rogue GH-1 Glute Ham Developer weighs 195lb and has the following dimensions: 68.5″ x 45″ x 49″.
It features a bolt-together, triangular base design with rubber feet. Many users have voiced their appreciation for this product’s ease of assembly, particularly thanks to its bolt-together mechanism.
As promised, this device delivers maximum comfort thanks to its foam roller footpad. Its ankle roller pad is made from special upholstery containing “moisture wicking” technology – that ought to keep the sweat under control!
You can also adjust these ankle roller pads horizontally – feel free to tailor their placement to your preference. Their default vertical positioning is at the perfect angle for peak muscle recruitment.
Not only will this machine help you tighten your glutes – it’ll help you strengthen your body overall, too! Furthermore, this glute machine contains an oversized footplate that’s perfect for feet of all sizes.
This exercise machine also has a decent price point; keeping in mind all the fantastic features this device offers, $595 makes for a pretty fair deal. Wheel attachment will cost you an additional $45, though, which can hike up the machine’s overall cost.
As a result, some may feel this glute machine costs more than they’ll willing to pay. However, the next product on this list costs a whopping $799. Judging by that mark, the Rogue GH-1 is definitely a more affordable buy.
Not to mention, like all Rogue Fitness products, this one is bound to last you a lifetime. If you’re looking for a comfortable glute machine with a durable build, you should definitely consider investing in the Rogue GH-1 GHD.
Summary
Best For: Budget buys
Price: $595 (+ $45 for wheel attachment)
Pros
- Well-reputed manufacturer
- Remarkably sturdy build; durable and long-lasting glute machine
- Commendable ease of assembly
- Highly comfortable pads with moisture-wicking abilities
- Can strengthen the posterior chain
Cons
- Expensive by some standards
- Common complaints about struggles related to tightening the screws that secure the feet
- Developer is manufactured in the USA from 2x2" and 2x3" 11- Gauge Steel
- Every aspect of this design makes the machine easily adaptable to athletes of most sizes
2. Sorinex Mach-II Glute Ham GHD
The Sorinex GHD is priced significantly higher than the Rogue GHD. The former retails at $799, while Rogue’s model costs $595 (plus extra for wheel attachment).
Though Sorinex’s Glute Ham Developer costs around $150-$200 more than Rogue’s, it comes complete with wheels.
So, you won’t need to worry about paying extra for those. Paired with all the other remarkable features Sorinex’s GHD has to offer, $799 isn’t too bad.
All things aside, the Sorinex Mach-II GHD is best suited to users with commendable body weight. They’ll need a robust, stable machine that won’t damage easily.
It features a handy weight peg that adds stability – this is an excellent feature heavier athletes should definitely consider investing in.
You’ll also find a set of band pegs. These add extra resistance and allow for improved muscle development.
It also contains adjustable hip pads that can be tilted for maximum comfort. The fact that this device conforms to your body’s shape gives it an edge over other GHD machines.
The footplate can be adjusted, too. This is especially handy for people with larger bodies – feel free to adjust things to your liking.
This GHD exercise machine is heavier than most, which allows it to maintain excellent stability. It is made from 2”x2” 11 gauge steel and has the following dimensions: 66″ x 34″ x 50″.
In terms of assembly, this glute machine is fairly easy to put together. However, the instructions are a little confusing. Still, there are plenty of tutorials available online in case things get too tricky – so don’t worry!
Summary
Best For: Athletes with commendable bodyweight requiring a stable, robust machine
Price: $799
Pros
- Remarkably durable
- Complete with wheels at no additional charge
- Available in a variety of interesting colors
- Excellent for athletes with greater body weight thanks to stability-inducing weight peg
Cons
- Expensive
- Large footplate – better for heavier athletes than lean ones
- Tilting Pad Design with Adjustable Hip Pads
- Glute Ham Developer & Band Pegs for Extra Resistance
- Weight Peg for Additional Stability
3. York ST Glute Ham Developer
The York ST GHD is known for its fantastic multi-functional capabilities. It features a brilliant design and an innovative layout. As a result, this machine can help with not just hamstring workouts but lower back strengthening exercises, too.
A study conducted in 2014 confirmed that glute muscles were activated during various hamstring exercises.
So, if you’re looking to effectively tone your glutes, performing hamstring exercises with a leg press is a great way to meet your goals!
Its twin pad design is part of what makes this machine so handy. But wait, there’s more: this GHD can adjust to not one, not two, but 29 horizontal positions!
The machine can be adjusted to fit athletes with any body type – no matter how heavy, lean, or muscular one may be.
This exercise machine’s roller pads contain ample padding for added comfort. The knee pads and ankle stabilizer pads also feature a comfortable design.
These two can be adjusted vertically, too.
As for the thigh roller pads, they are designed to accommodate users with different body weights with ease. You won’t need to worry about body size or weight when working with this device!
Furthermore, you’ll find that this device contains a large diamond-plate footplate to improve stability during exercises.
This product’s innovative design is particularly useful for Roman chair sit-ups, which are known for their ability to strengthen glute muscles. Naturally, they’re one of the most popular exercises performed on GHD machines.
Knowing that the York ST GHD allows for Roman chair sit-ups makes it all the better!
When analyzing this exercise machine’s exterior design, you’ll find a fully MIG welded metal frame (steel tubing with 3mm sheet steel). This helps ensure the York ST GHD will last you longer than most GHD machines.
This workout machine is also coated with scratch-resistant electrostatic powder paint. Not only will this machine last you forever – but it’ll also maintain its outer beauty and appeal throughout this time!
The York ST GHD is priced at a modest $450. Its non-US origin accounts for the lower price point, as does its relatively simple appearance, despite its impressive non-scratch paint.
Summary
Best For: Those looking for an adjustable, convertible GHD
Price: $450
Pros
- Commercial grade MIG-welded steel frame guarantees excellent durability
- Can adjust to 29 horizontal positions
- Remarkably sturdy
- The highly responsive customer service team
Cons
- End caps may pop out unprovoked
- Signature piece of equipment, the Glute-Ham Bench offers multi-functional capability enabling the user to perform both hamstring and lower back strengthening exercises.
- The twin pad design maximizes user comfort and adjusts to 29 horizontal positions accommodating for any size user. Both the knee pads and the ankle stabilizer pads are adjustable vertically.
- Thigh roller pads are designed to maximize user comfort.
4. Vulcan Glute Ham Developer/Raise Machine
Priced at $599.99, the Vulcan Glute Ham Developer and Raise machine is the last GHD on this list.
Its price point is somewhat similar to the Rogue Fitness GH-1 (retailing at $595, plus $45 for wheel attachment).
For this price, you’ll receive a lifetime warranty on the frame – that’s impressive!
All moving parts come with a 6-month warranty, and you’ll get 3 months for upholstery. Unlike the Rogue GH-1, this device’s upholstery doesn’t promise moisture-wicking abilities.
However, it does come with fully adjustable handles that can be removed if needed. Removing them can help you perform barbell movements or rotational exercises. Similar to the York GHD, this is a remarkably versatile device.
Furthermore, this GHD can accommodate athletes of all sizes and builds, as long as they fall between the 5 to 7 ft heigh range and weigh under 300 lbs.
The machine itself weighs 168 lbs (standard GHD), and 206 lbs (Anvil GHD), depending on the model you purchase. You can choose between a 3″ x 3″ 11 Gauge Anvil Option or a 2″ x 3″ 12 Gauge standard GHD.
This device is made from heavy-duty vinyl composite and high-quality steel washers and hex bolts. It also has wheels that provide easy mobility and has a split pad design to maximize comfort levels. The vinyl hip pads contain a subtle texture that serves as an anti-slip mechanism.
There’s also a set of removable band pegs included, similar to the Sorinex Mach-II. Additionally, you’ll find two diamond steel footplates. These are wider than average, making this machine perfect for all athletes regardless of their foot size.
Summary
Best For: Maximum versatility
Price: $599.99
Pros
- This glute machine can easily be adjusted
- Contains removable resistant band pegs and adjustable handles
- Lifetime frame warranty
- Complete with wheels – can be moved around with ease
- Durable and robust build
Cons
- Can be challenging to assemble due to limited instructions in manual
- Easy pull pin and dual bearing slider for quick adjustment
- Dual Pads with Slight angle
- Will accommodate any user 5ft to 7ft
Best Glute Trainer
If GHDs aren’t your thing, but you’re still keen on finding a machine that helps with glute workouts, don’t worry!
There’s plenty of different glute trainer options out there. The following two products might be better suited to your tastes…
1. The Coba Board
First up is the Coba Board. If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to GHDs, consider investing in this glute machine instead.
While it’s true that the Coba Board isn’t exactly cheap, it costs significantly less than the average GHD. Luckily, despite the steep price cut, it can help you focus on the same muscles as a GHD does, too!
Retailing at just $169, the Coba Board allows you to work through over 50 full-body exercises. This includes both low impact and high impact workouts.
The Coba Board and its related exercises were designed to hyper-target your gluteus maximus and help you strengthen all muscles in the area.
Also, you don’t need to worry about messing up these workouts. You can easily access instructions, and more, through the designated Coba fitness app.
The application is available on Apple’s App Store, as well as on Google Play. It doesn’t cost anything extra – all you need is your Coba Board, and you’re good to go!
Upon purchasing the Coba Board, you’ll get the following tools and accessories:
- (1) Main Handle
- (3) Under-Board Bands (20 lbs. resistance)
- (3) Glute Bridge Bands (30,40,50 lbs. resistance)
- (1) Glute Bridge Nylon Strap
- (3) Kickback Bands – (10,15,20 lbs. resistance)
- (1) Kickback Nylon Strap
- (1) Cloth Storage Bag
User Guide
This glute machine weighs just 12 lbs, making it easy to carry around if needed. Its compact size and shape allow for convenient storage, too.
Popular glute exercises conducted with the Coba Board include:
- Coba Squat
- Coba kickback
- Coba donkey kick
- Coba hip thrust
- Coba glute bridge
- Coba hip abduction
- Coba lunge
- Coba deadlift
All of these target your glutes and can help you shape up in no time!
The best way to use this device is to lean forward, slowly bend, and squeeze your glutes. Do this while tugging on the cable pulley. Make sure to keep your feet flat, or else your lower body muscles won’t respond well to the workout.
Keeping a single knee bent at a time can encourage glute gains and muscle growth in the legs. You can start with your right leg’s knee and then shift to your left leg when you repeat the set.
Some people like to keep both knees bent simultaneously. This is another great way to target your glutes and conduct a full-body workout.
This workout routine, and more glute workouts, are explained in great detail within the Coba App. You’ll also learn how to maintain proper form when conducting these glute exercises.
Summary
Best For: Glute training at home
Price: $169
Pros
- Commendable quality
- Excellent durability
- Versatile; can be used for 50 different exercises, include 8 primary ones that target glutes
- Workouts with the Coba Board help shape legs, too
- Ideal for home workouts
- Lightweight and easily portable
Cons
- Some users complained about their straps staying attached despite attempted removal
User Reviews:
CoBa GLUTE Trainer - Full Home Workout System, Core & Booty Exercise Machine, Resistance Band Full Body Trainer.
- (1) Platform
- (1) Main Handle
- (2) Extra Handles
- (3) Under-Board Bands (20 lbs. each, up to 60 lbs. of resistance)
- (3) Glute Bridge Bands (30,40 & 50 lbs., double up for increased resistance)
- (1) Glute Bridge Nylon Strap
- (3) Kickback Bands - (10,15 & 20 lbs. double up for increased resistance)
2. Sunny Health Fitness Squat Assist
The Sunny Squat Assist isn’t structured like the Coba Board. For starters, there is no board, but a vertical metal frame, instead. Regardless, it targets the same region at the Coba Board – the glutes and legs.
Similar to the Coba Board, though, you’ll find online workout support through a special training video. Detailed access instructions can be found on the package.
One of the best things about this device is its handy digital monitor. Here, you’ll find precise information related to your workout stats, including burning calories and time spent on the machine.
The machine itself comes equipped with three resistance bands. You can adjust these depending on how intense you’d like your workout to be. Also, keep in mind that the number or intensity of your resistance bands depends upon your fitness level and expertise.
Each workout resistance band offers 22 lbs in resistance and can be added or removed as needed.
Another excellent feature offered by this glute machine is the ability to adjust squat depth.
You can easily alternate between three different saddle angles: 30, 60, and 90 degrees. Each option offers a different squat depth, so feel free to choose one that aligns best with your workout aims.
A study conducted in 2001 proved that altering your workout angle can affect how fast your muscles develop. Luckily, the Sunny Health Fitness Squat Assist allows you to change angles.
This means that you can take direct charge of your glute muscle development by altering your training intensity through saddle angle changes.
Summary
Best For: Affordable home workout glute machine
Price: $98.91
Pros
- Ideal glute machine for tightening and toning workout
- Allows for intense glute building exercises and booty gains
- Convenient assembly and impressive ease of use
- Affords a full-body workout, including arms, core, and back, if used appropriately
Cons
- Requires 1 AA battery, or else the monitor won’t function
- Average digital display
- Not suited to people above average height
User Reviews:
Develop strength, speed, and leanness with the Sunny Health & Fitness No. 077 Home Squat Machine. Strengthen not only your lower body but shoulders, arms, and back!
- The LCD monitor tracks your calories, scan, time, and count.
- Stable end caps prevent any movement to ensure you have a stable and safe workout.
Best Resistance Bands for Glute Training
Resistance bands are an essential tool for many workouts related to defining glute muscles.
In addition to focusing on the main glute muscles, resistance bands can be used for a quick cardio workout, too.
1. Stroops Slastix Resistance Bands
Stroops is a well-reputed brand that offers a wide array of workout equipment, including resistance bands.
Their Slastix resistance bands are known for their remarkable quality and high-performance capacity.
These resistance bands come equipped with a handy clip on either end of the band. This allows them to easily latch onto gym machines for a seamless workout experience. Their solid, unbreakable resistance enables you to build muscle and perform high-intensity workouts in proper form. Gone are the days when you’d be left worrying about the loop band snapping. Few resistance bands come close to the durability offered by this one.
The 36” Slastix resistance band qualifies as standard length. It is recommended for people of all ages and offers the greatest versatility during training sessions. So, if you’re looking to invest in just one Slastix band, let it be the 36” one.
Each resistance band, regardless of length, has an independent weight. The resistance levels are as follow:
- Very light- 10 lbs.
- Light- 15 lbs.
- Medium- 20 lbs.
- Heavy- 25 lbs.
- Very heavy- 30 lbs.
Though the 36” resistance band option is most common, you can find Slastix in other lengths, too:
- 12”
- 14”
- 24”
- 36”
- 48”
- 72”
- 10’
- 20’
The Resistance 90 is a portable resistance training system.
- Use with handles or bar
- Use freestanding or anchored
- Portable design
Below is a list of the different packages that are available for glute training:
- Slastix driven suspension trainer
Loop
- For mobility, warm-ups, or a complete wokrkout
- Durable, robust, and safe to use
- Resistance training system with maximum portability
- Can be used independently or with a collapsible bar
- Employs foam door anchor or Spine Strap
VITL
- Versatile all-in-one resistance band training system
Summary
Best For: Those looking for durable resistance bands in a variety of lengths and weights
Price: $11.17 – $289.07
Pros
- Durable and robust design
- Ideal for multiple exercises; versatile product
- Can be used in home gyms or on the go
Cons
- Some users found the handles uncomfortable
Orange, Very Light Resistance - 10 lbs.
- Made by Slastix Stroops premium brand
- Helps with strength training and muscle toning
Best Cardio Machines for Glute Training
If you’re looking for ways to perform effective cardio and strengthen your glutes, you’re in the right place!
Below are two of the finest cardio machines for glute training out there:
1. Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine
This glute machine contains a “Goal Track” system that helps athletes set unique goals for their workouts. If you’re unsure about what to try, you can easily opt for one of the 22 preset workout programs.
The Schwinn 430 elliptical offers a high-speed, inertia drive system.
Unlike some machines, this one makes next to no noise, making it perfect for home gyms. You can enjoy a seamless, silent workout at home with this glute machine.
It contains a Dual Track LCD screen system for increased visibility. This screen displays essential information related to goal tracking. Hence the impressive design and increased visibility levels are helpful.
This glute machine offers 20 levels of resistance. Feel free to select one that aligns with your workout aims.
As you make gains, you can level up and try to work with a higher resistance threshold. If you’re just starting out, don’t hesitate to opt for a lower resistance setting instead.
This glutes and cardio machine allow for a 20” stride. It has a streamlined, compact console that can easels fit into your home gym.
Furthermore, you’ll find large, cushioned footplates for added comfort. There’s also a set of handy moving and fixed handlebars to encourage ease of use.
Summary
Best For: Elliptical that encourages glute workout and replaces the need for independent cardio machines
Price: $799
Pros
- Convenient setup
- Allows for an intense cardio workout while targeting glutes, too
- Silent yet effective
- Excellent value for money
- High quality and durable build
Cons
- Some users complained about a persisting clicking sound
- The static handles may be too low for taller athletes
User Reviews:
The 430 brings you a smooth, comfortable workout experience that increases cardio and muscle strength while shedding unwanted pounds.
- High speed, high inertia drive system for easy start-up and smooth, quiet workouts.
- Dual Track 2 LCD screen displays offer increased visibility to programs and goal tracking.
2. Sunny Health and Fitness Mini Stepper
This stair stepper is one of the best glute machines out there. Not only does it target glutes, but it also helps your legs squeeze in a decent workout simultaneously.
It contains an LCD monitor that can help count the overall number of steps you’ve taken. It also accounts for the number of calories burnt and workout duration.
This is one of the few glutes machines that come with removable training bands. It is remarkably easy to use and won’t take up much floor space in your home gym. It arrives fully assembled and doesn’t need an additional setup.
Also, it is extremely affordable yet can target over 20 different core muscles. You can easily change the step motion height thanks to the height adjustment knob. As a result, people of all heights can use this device.
You’ll also find large footplates with a friction-inducing texture on them. This helps prevent accidental slips, no matter how fast you’re stepping.
Furthermore, its resistance bands are padded with foam, allowing for a non-slip hand grip!
This machine is a great way to engage in low-impact aerobic exercise, making it great for beginners. Its stepping motion flows seamlessly thanks to its hydraulic drive system. It has a maximum weight capacity of 220 lbs and weighs just 14.5 lbs itself. Its dimensions are 16” x 15” x 13”.
Summary
Best For: Beginners looking for a stair stepper cable machine to help with glutes workout
Price: $59.99
Pros
- Ideal for walking lunges and step ups
- Excellent option for beginners
- Affordable
- Good for cardio and glute workout
- Comes fully equipped with padded resistance bands
- Ideal for tall and short people alike
- Brilliant non-slip technology
Cons
- Can’t cater to people weighing more than 220 lbs
- Some users heard persisting squeaking sounds when using this stepper
User Reviews:
Offering a full cardio workout and strengthening your muscles, this stepper exercise machine can help you get a shapely and toned body as well as full body workout.
- LCD monitor measures the steps time total and calories, making your exercise more reasonable and effective.
- Equipped with removable training bands
Best Leg Press Machine for Glute Training
Below is the top leg press machine recommended for both beginners and pros:
TDS Premiere Vertical Leg Press Machine
This is one of the best glute machines out there, thanks to its robust design that yields remarkable results.
This smith machine weighs 200 lbs and can support up to 1000 lbs of additional weight. You don’t need to worry about your body weights when using this machine – anything goes!
It contains 4 handy built-in stops to maintain user safety. There is also an extra-wide steel deck footplate for added comfort and ease of use. Furthermore, this machine employs deluxe 3” thick stitched padding for a great workout experience.
Its innovative design makes it perfect for developing quadriceps, strengthening your hamstrings, and tightening your glute muscles.
This device’s carriage can slide all the way down to the back pad. This helps the lower body go through a full range of motion, which improves flexibility and tones muscles.
Despite all its helpful features, though, this is a professional machine and should not be used without guidance.
It was built with top standards in mind and boasts an industrial-grade structure. Of course, this means that all safety standards are met, too.
Still, you should ideally have the best functional trainer by your side when using this machine – unless you’re an experienced pro, of course. Your trainer can help you understand how to balance the machine’s loads and select a weight range that works best for you.
A 2008 study confirmed that mechanical changes and loads affect lower limb muscle activity during leg press exercises. So, it’s best to venture forth with a trainer by your side.
Summary
Best For: Robust leg press machine with great value for money
Price: $879.95
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Excellent value for money
- Industrial grade materials and robust build
- Safe and secure
- Can accommodate all body types and weights
- Compact design
Cons
- Lacks separate neck rest
- Slight wobbly feel when fully extended, according to some user reports
User Reviews:
Final Thoughts
And that’s a wrap! These were 10 of the very best glute machines to tighten your gluteus maximus.
Consistent, appropriate use of any of these devices can land you in great shape in no time!
If you’d like to work without a machine, for now, try performing effective toning exercises like a glute bridge and hip thrust workouts. You can also try the donkey kick move if you’d prefer to try something new apart from glute bridges.
Just make sure your feet and hip-width are appropriate when doing it, or else you may injure yourself.
Dr. Ahmed Zayed holds a bachelor’s degree in medicine from Alexandria university and is a practicing plastic surgeon. He’s our expert on all things nutrition, medicine, rehabilitation, and flexibility. Dr.Ahmed has been a medical content writer for more than 11 years and his work reached top publications such as the HuffingtonPost