Squats vs hip thrusts: which really shapes the glutes?

NCT ID NCT07760220

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Auburn University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 12, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial asks whether the barbell back squat or the barbell hip thrust is better for building glute muscle and strength. About 39 young, untrained adults will train twice a week for nine weeks with one of the two exercises. Researchers will measure muscle size with MRI and strength with weightlifting tests to see if one exercise leads to greater gains.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Resistance training (barbell back squat or barbell hip thrust)
What this could lead to: If one exercise proves superior, it could help people choose more effective workouts for glute development and strength.
What could go wrong: This is a small, short-term study in untrained young adults, so results may not apply to everyone or predict long-term outcomes.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

myostatin-related muscle hypertrophy

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MUSCLE HYPERTROPHY MUSCLE STRENGTH

Contacts and locations

Locations

School of Kinesiology

Auburn, Alabama, 36849-5419, United States

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