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International Journal of Physiotherapy and Allied Health SciencesIJPAHS · Published by Avyakt Pharma · www.ijpahs.com
Original Research · Volume 1, Issue 1 (2026)

Effect of Progressive Isometric Hip Thrust Versus Wall-Squat Training on Gluteus Maximus Function and Sit-to-Stand Performance in Sedentary Adults: A Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial

Mukeshpal Singh Jadon, Afroz Mahernoz Patel

MPT Musculoskeletal Science, Surat, Gujarat, India

Corresponding author: Mukeshpal Singh Jadon — mukeshpalsinghphysio@gmail.com (ORCID 0009-0008-8486-0994)

Vol. 1 · Issue 1 · Pages 42–55Published: 20 August 2026Open Access · CC BY 4.0

Abstract

Background: Sedentary lifestyle is associated with gluteal weakness, reduced neural drive, and impaired hip extension strength, contributing to diminished functional mobility during sit-to-stand transitions. While dynamic exercises are commonly used, isometric holds offer a joint-friendly alternative for deconditioned individuals. However, comparative evidence on whether supine-based hip thrust or weight-bearing wall-squat training is more effective for improving functional performance in sedentary populations remains limited. Objective: To compare the effectiveness of progressive isometric hip thrust and isometric wall-squat training on gluteus maximus strength, endurance, functional sit-to-stand performance, and neuromuscular activation in sedentary adults. Methodology: A single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted with 45 sedentary adults aged 18–35 years. Participants were randomly allocated into three groups: Hip Thrust Hold Group (n = 15), Wall-Squat Hold Group (n = 15), and Control Group (n = 15). The intervention groups performed progressive isometric training three times per week for four weeks. The control group continued usual daily activities without structured strengthening exercise. Outcome measures included Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), the Glute Bridge Endurance Test, the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test, the Five-Times Sit-toStand Test, and the Glute Bridge Activation Scale. Results: Both intervention groups demonstrated statistically significant within-group improvements across all outcome measures (p < 0.001), whereas the control group showed no statistically significant changes. The Hip Thrust group demonstrated the highest post-test values for MMT (4.5 ± 0.4), Glute Bridge Endurance (70 ± 12 seconds), and Glute Bridge Activation Scale (7.8 ± 0.9). The Wall-Squat group demonstrated the highest 30-Second Sit-to-Stand performance (16.8 ± 2.3 repetitions) and the lowest Five-Times Sit-to-Stand time (9.8 ± 1.2 seconds). One-way ANOVA demonstrated significant betweengroup differences for all outcomes (p < 0.001). Tukey post-hoc results showed outcome-specific advantages of the two interventions. Conclusion: Both progressive isometric hip thrust and wall-squat training improved gluteus maximusrelated strength, endurance, activation, and functional sit-to-stand performance over four weeks. Hip thrust training demonstrated greater post-test values for gluteal strength, endurance, and activation, whereas wall-squat training demonstrated superior functional sit-to-stand performance. The findings support exercise-specific prescription according to the clinical outcome being targeted.

Keywords

Gluteus maximus; hip thrust; wall squat; sedentary adults

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