This clam shell exercise move is not only great for building strength in the hip abductors, but it also works perfectly for hip, leg, and lower back rehabilitation. Physical therapists commonly use clam shells and other hip abduction exercises to help patients recover due to their effectiveness in strengthening the glutes and easing lower back injuries.
Jennifer Jacobs is a New York City-based certified trainer for Peloton.
References
Sidorkewicz, N, et al. (2014). Examining the effects of altering hip orientation on gluteus medius and tensor fascae latae interplay during common non-weight-bearing hip rehabilitation exercises. Clinical Biomechanics.
Why trust our experts?
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MALauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Reviewed by:
Brian Clista, MDDr. Clista is a board-certified pediatrician who works in private practice in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He previously served as a National Health Service Corporation Scholar in the inner city of Pittsburgh for 11 years.
