Exercise guide
Lever Glute Abductors Press
- Beginner
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Lower legs
- Upper legs
This isolation exercise targets the gluteus medius and minimus, which are essential for hip stability and developing the lateral shape of the glutes. The leverage machine provides constant tension throughout the movement, making it highly effective for focused muscle hypertrophy.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Sit firmly in the machine with your back flat against the backrest and your feet on the designated footrests.
- Adjust the outer thigh pads so they are resting comfortably against the outside of your knees.
- Grasp the handles on the sides of the machine to stabilize your upper body and keep your hips anchored.
How to do it
- Exhale as you push your knees outward against the pads, moving the lever arms as far as your range of motion allows.
- Pause for one second at the point of maximum contraction to fully engage the lateral glutes.
- Inhale as you slowly bring your knees back together, maintaining control and tension on the weight without letting the plates touch.
- Follow a controlled 2-1-2 tempo: 2 seconds to push out, 1 second hold, and 2 seconds to return.
Form checklist
- Keep your lower back pressed firmly against the seat pad throughout the movement.
- Avoid using momentum or swinging your torso to move the weight.
- Ensure your knees remain in constant contact with the pads.
- Keep your feet flat on the footrests to prevent the calves from taking over.
Pro tips
- Lean your torso slightly forward and hold the front of the machine frame to increase the stretch and activation of the gluteus medius.
- Focus on 'pushing with your knees' rather than your feet to ensure the glutes are the primary movers.
- Maintain a slight 'toes-in' foot position if the machine allows to further isolate the upper glute fibers.
Make it harder
- Incorporate a 3-second isometric hold at the widest point of every rep.
- Perform '1.5 reps' by pushing all the way out, returning halfway, pushing out again, and then returning to the start.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the lever glute abductors press work?
- The lever glute abductors press primarily targets the glutes, and also works the adductors and quadriceps as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the lever glute abductors press?
- The lever glute abductors press uses leverage machine.
- Is the lever glute abductors press good for beginners?
- Yes. The lever glute abductors press is a beginner-friendly movement and a strong foundation to build on.