Yes, I agree with you
@Donvitosharkone, especially that 8 sets isn’t much if we’re talking about the total number of sets per week. And yes, I also lean toward RDLs, Bulgarian split squats, or deep lunges being the foundation for building the gluteus maximus. But of course, execution and focusing on the gluteus maximus are important so that the load is targeted more specifically. Your quads and hamstrings will also be involved, which is completely normal, but you need to adjust your technique so that your glutes are getting the load.
Progressive overload is also important. With these basic exercises, strength programming and periodization can help. Let’s take one exercise, for example the RDL. The simplest example of periodization would be one lighter week with less weight, for example 3 sets of 12 reps at RIR 3, followed by a heavier week with 5 reps at RIR 1-2. It’s also possible to do the third week without RDLs at all, or do a light maintenance session of 10 reps, 1–2 sets at RIR 6.
This isn’t an instruction to follow, just an example. To find the right setup for you, you need to experiment and track your progress in working weights. Your daily calorie intake will also be important here. And as
@Donvitosharkone said, carbs are extremely important in this context.
Another thing you can use is temporary specialization. For example, for 12 weeks you focus on your glutes while simply maintaining the rest of your muscles so that all your resources can go toward glute growth. I can explain this in more detail if you’re interested.