A hip thrust can be performed in the gym using a wide variety of equipment—from a simple flat bench with additional weights to a full-featured multi-gym with cable machines. This overview shows which hip thrust machines are actually suitable for gyms in 2026 and which solution is best suited for which training approach.
- Force USA The G4 All-in-One Trainer is the best overall solution for hip thrust machines in a gym with multiple training stations in 2026.
- The MyBench V2 FID Bench is best suited for classic barbell hip thrusts with a stable backrest.
- The dual-adjustable cable machine Smith machine guides the movement—great for beginner setups.
- The Compact Leg Press & Hack Squat V3 is the space-saving alternative for small gyms.
- Load capacity, adjustability, and space requirements determine which hip thrust machine is right for the gym.
Why Choosing a Hip Thrust Machine Is Important for Gyms
The hip thrust has become one of the most popular glute exercises in Pilates studios, physical therapy clinics, and functional training facilities—yet there isn’t a single “hip thrust machine” that’s suitable for every setting. A studio offering group classes has different needs than a physical therapy clinic providing one-on-one training or a boutique gym with limited space.
The decision isn't just about the exercise itself. Durability, the adjustability of the backrest, space requirements, and whether the machine can also be used for other exercises will determine whether purchasing it for the gym in 2026 is truly worthwhile.
An Overview of the Purchase Decision
Best overall solution for gyms with multiple training stations: the G4 All-in-One Trainer from Force USA. Best for classic barbell hip thrusts with a backrest: the MyBench V2 FID Bench. Best for guided movement, such as in rehabilitation-related settings: the Dual Adjustable Cable Station Smith Machine. Best for studios with limited space: the Compact Leg Press & Hack Squat V3.
What Makes a Good Hip Thrust Machine for the Gym
- Load capacity and frame stability that remain reliable even with heavy additional loads
- Adjustable backrest or seat height to accommodate different body sizes
- Space requirements that match the actual studio area
- Compatibility with cable machines or attachments for band resistance and variations
- Low maintenance requirements and readily available replacement parts
- Suitability for group training or individual instruction, depending on the type of operation
Hip Thrust Machines for Gyms at a Glance
| Device | Best for | Standout Feature | Most Important Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Force USA G4 All-in-One Trainer | Gyms with multiple workout stations | Combines a cable machine, rack, and hip thrust position in a single piece of equipment | Takes up more space than a single bench |
| MyBench V2 FID Bench | Classic Barbell Hip Thrust | Adjustable backrest for proper hip extension | No built-in cable pull |
| Double Adjustable Cable Station Smith Machine | Guided Movement | The Smith machine guides the bar throughout the entire movement | Less freedom of movement than an open dumbbell set |
| Compact Leg Press & Hack Squat V3 | Studios with Limited Space | Compact footprint in commercial construction | No dedicated hip-thrust pad like on benches |
1. Force USA G4 All-in-One Trainer: The Best Hip Thrust Solution for Gyms with Multiple Stations
The Force USA G4 All-in-One Trainer is designed as a multifunctional machine that combines a rack, cable machine, and bench in a single unit. For hip thrusts, this means you can perform the exercise using cable resistance instead of just weight plates, which is a flexible addition to free weights for many gyms. Especially in boutique gyms with a mixed class schedule, a single piece of equipment for multiple exercises saves both space and money.
Advantages: A single piece of equipment covers cable rows, rack exercises, and hip thrust variations; the design is built for commercial use; and the attachments can be reused for other glute and leg exercises.
Disadvantages: This purchase is especially worthwhile if the gym also uses the cable machine for other exercises, and it takes up more space than a single hip-thrust bench.
Best for: Gyms that want to combine a cable machine, power rack, and hip thrust station into a single piece of equipment. Verdict: Buy it if cable training is already part of your program.
2. MyBench V2 FID Bench: The Best Hip Thrust Solution for Classic Barbell Training
The MyBench V2 FID Bench from Force USA is an adjustable flat/incline bench suitable for hip thrusts with a barbell—the backrest supports the shoulders while the hips move freely over the edge of the bench. For gyms that teach the classic hip thrust using an Olympic barbell (20 kg) and standard weight plates (50 mm inner diameter), this is the most straightforward solution.
Advantages: The bench is versatile and can be used for other exercises such as hip thrusts, rowing, or shoulder presses; it can be adjusted to accommodate different body heights; and it is more affordable than multifunctional machines.
Disadvantages: Without a cable machine, you can't use resistance bands or cables, and if you're using very heavy weights, you'll need additional weight plate capacity in the gym.
Best for: Gyms and physical therapy practices that primarily incorporate the hip thrust into their programs using a free barbell, usually in the range of 8 to 15 repetitions per set. Verdict: Buy this if free-weight training is the standard at your gym.
3. Dual-Adjustable Cable Smith Machine: The Best Hip Thrust Solution for Guided Movement
The dual-adjustable cable machine with an integrated Smith machine guides the barbell along a fixed rail. For hip thrusts, this means less focus on balance and more control over the movement path—an advantage in rehabilitation settings or for beginners who need to first learn proper hip extension form before adding free weights.
Advantages: The guided rail reduces the risk of injury for inexperienced exercisers; the dual function with cable pull expands the range of exercises; and one machine covers two types of training.
Disadvantages: The fixed guide restricts natural range of motion, and some advanced athletes find the hip thrust splint restrictive compared to free-weight training.
Best for: Physical therapy practices and beginner gyms that want to teach the hip thrust with maximum movement control. Verdict: Buy if guided movement is a priority.
4. Compact Leg Press & Hack Squat V3: The Best Hip Thrust Alternative for Studios with Limited Space
The Compact Leg Press & Hack Squat V3 isn't a dedicated hip thrust machine, but it targets the same muscle group through leg press and hack squat movements when there simply isn't enough space in the gym for an additional bench. For small gyms where each piece of equipment must serve multiple purposes, this is a practical addition rather than a replacement.
Advantages: Its compact footprint fits into studios with limited space, its commercial-grade construction is designed for daily use, and the machine targets the glutes and legs without requiring a separate hip thrust station.
Disadvantages: It does not replace a real hip thrust pad, and the hip extension under load occurs differently from a biomechanical standpoint than in the free hip thrust.
Best for: Small studios that want to incorporate glute training using an existing machine. Verdict: Recommended with reservations —as a supplement, not as the sole hip-thrust solution.
Here's how it was evaluated
The ranking is based on the criteria listed above: weight capacity, adjustability, space requirements, compatibility with cable machines, maintenance requirements, and suitability for group or individual training. No single machine excels in every category—the ranking shows which machine is the most practical choice for which type of gym, not which one is objectively “the best.”
Which hip thrust machine should you choose for your gym?
If you run a gym with a mixed class schedule and plan to use cable machines anyway, the Force USA G4 All-in-One Trainer is a must-have. If you teach classic hip thrusts with a free barbell, the MyBench V2 FID Bench is a more affordable and flexible option. For guided movements in rehabilitation-related settings, the Double Adjustable Cable Pull Station Smith Machine is the safer choice, and if you simply don’t have room for an additional station, you can cover glute training for now with the Compact Leg Press & Hack Squat V3.
Kraftathlet supplies these machines, including on-site installation, in Germany and Austria—for gyms planning for 2026 and trying to determine which hip thrust machine is actually the best fit for their operations, it’s worth taking a look at the specific floor space available before placing an order.
FAQ
Which hip thrust machine is best for gyms?
The Force USA G4 All-in-One Trainer is the best overall solution in 2026 because it combines a cable machine, a rack, and a hip thrust position in a single piece of equipment. For pure barbell training, the MyBench V2 FID Bench is the more straightforward choice.
Does a gym need its own hip thrust machine, or is a bench enough?
An adjustable bench like the MyBench V2 FID Bench is perfectly adequate for the classic barbell hip thrust. A dedicated multi-function station is only worth it if cable-based variations are also taught.
Is a Smith machine suitable for hip thrusts?
Yes, a Smith machine guides the barbell along a fixed rail, thereby reducing the need for balance. This is particularly suitable for beginners and rehabilitation settings, but it limits the range of motion for advanced trainees.
How much space does a hip thrust machine take up in the gym?
The space required depends heavily on the type of equipment: A single bench takes up significantly less space than a complete all-in-one machine with a cable pull. Small gyms therefore often opt for compact leg press machines or hack squat machines as an alternative.
Can you do hip thrusts without a special machine?
Yes, you can perform hip thrusts using a standard flat bench and a barbell, as long as the bench is stable enough to support the additional weight. An adjustable bench, such as the MyBench V2 FID Bench, simply improves comfort and allows for better adjustment to different body heights.
How much does it cost to buy a hip thrust machine for a gym?
Prices vary widely depending on the type of equipment, ranging from a simple bench to a complete multifunctional trainer. For current configurations and prices, it’s worth sending a direct inquiry to Kraftathlet.
Is a hack squat machine a suitable substitute for hip thrusts?
A hack squat machine targets the same muscle group but functions biomechanically differently than a real hip thrust pad. For gyms with limited space, it’s a practical addition, not a full-fledged replacement.
One more thing
Many gyms underestimate how much the bench height affects the quality of the hip thrust exercise—a seating surface that is too low or too high alters the lever arm and, consequently, the load on the lower back. Before purchasing, it’s therefore worth testing the specific seat and support heights with the trainees who will actually be using the equipment later, rather than relying solely on the product description.