You may or may not have heard me speak about an exercise called a "glute bridge". Well if you haven't, than listen up because this movement will make a world of difference for you if you want a nice ass (speaking to the women) and it'll help you get a bigger deadlift and squat (speaking to the men).
As everyone knows, a strong posterior chain is crucial in lifting heavy weights. What makes up the posterior chain? The calves, hamstrings, glutes, and lower back. Today, I'm going to talk about a lift that will work your glutes/hams.
So let's dive right in... This movement is so important because it puts direct work on the glute/hamstring region without allowing the lifter to use his/her upper body. Without the use of the core and upper body you have to utilize the hip extensors. When you perform this lift, you wan to fully contract your muscles at the top of the lift. You don't want to sacrifice form for weight with this movement. Be sure to perform each and every rep the same way. Also, keep this movement fluid and smooth to keep from sustaining an injury.
You begin with yourself on the floor and the bar right above your pelvis. This will be uncomfortable so you may want to put a pad on the bar. Bring your heels as close to your butt as you can get them. Use your hands to hold the bar in position. As the weight gets heavier, you may need to have someone standing behind you (to help keep you in place). Bridge the weight up using your hams and glutes. Than slowly lower it down in a controlled manner. Don't crash down with it.
Here's a vid to illustrate what it is I described...