Electromyography (EMG) is a technique for evaluating and recording the electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles EMG is performed using an instrument called an electromyograph, to produce a record called an electromyogram. An electromyograph detects the electrical potential generated by muscle cells when these cells are electrically or neurologically activated. The signals can be analyzed to detect medical abnormalities, activation level, recruitment order or to analyze the biomechanics of human or animal movement.

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Research presented in the Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy helps clear up some of the confusion about the 'best butt exercises' commonly used in a rehab or therapeutic setting. This particular study used electromyography to quantify and compare signal amplitude as the gluteus maximus and gluteus medius muscles fired in order to determine which therapeutic exercises most effectively recruit the glutes.

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Best Butt Exercises - Gluteus Maximus

1. These exercises produce the highest percentage of electromyographic activity in gluteus maximus muscle group.

2. One-leg squat - 59% activation

3. One-leg deadlift - 59% activation

4. Sideways, front, and transverse lunges - 41-49% activation

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Source: http://sportsmedicine.about.com/od/Lower-Body-Exercises/a/Best-Butt-Exercises-Gluteus-Maximus-Medius.htm