Glutes exercise

Clamshell

Opening your top knee while lying on your side with a plate as resistance, for glute medius and abductors.

  • Primary muscleGlutes
  • Also worksAbductors
  • EquipmentOther
  • TypeIsolation
  • LevelBeginner
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Clamshell, exercise photo
  • Glutes
  • Abductors
  • Other

How to do the Clamshell

4 steps, in the order you do them.

  1. Lie on your side with your knees bent at about 90° and your hips stacked.
  2. Hold a plate against the outside of your top knee, pressing it down.
  3. Raise your top knee while keeping your heels together and without rotating your pelvis.
  4. Lower slowly. Complete your reps and switch sides.

Muscles worked

Alternatives to the Clamshell

They work the glutes with other equipment, including options for training at home.

Guides to get more out of it

Mobbe

Log every set and watch your numbers climb.

Mobbe saves every set, shows you your record and builds your full routine.

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Exercise detail in Mobbe, with photo, muscles and personal record

More glutes exercises

See all 36 glutes exercises →

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the Clamshell work?

The Clamshell works mainly the glutes. It also works the abductors.

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