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Band Clamshell

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Band Clamshell.

EasyGlutes

About this exercise

The resistance band clam (clamshell) is a hip abduction exercise performed lying on your side with a loop band around your thighs. It isolates the gluteus medius and hip external rotators, which are key muscles for knee stability and lower-body alignment.

How to Perform

  • Place a short resistance band just above your knees and lie on your side with hips and knees bent to approximately 45 degrees
  • Stack your feet together and rest your head on your lower arm
  • Keeping your feet touching, rotate your top knee upward as far as you can without letting your pelvis roll backward
  • Squeeze your glutes at the top of the movement
  • Slowly lower your knee back to the starting position under control
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching

Muscle Activation

Primary
Glutes
Secondary
Outer thighs

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Band Clamshell

The Band Clamshell is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.