Whether you're after faster sprints or a better butt, the hyperextension machine is a must. Start with bodyweight only and really think about making the glutes, not the hamstrings, do all the work. Squeeze them hard at the top.
To progress it, add bands. Begin bent over a hyper machine with the band held around the back of the neck. Extend to a straight position and hold for 3 seconds. Lower under control and repeat for 3 sets of 6 reps. No band? Hold a plate or dumbbells.
Prior to the early 90's, hardly anyone used scientific references to support their notions – not in real life and certainly not in the magazines. You just said what you believed and most of the time no one questioned you.