Clams with Band

Equipment
Mat,Resistance Bands
BODY PART

Purpose

Clams or clamshells activate the gluteus medius and hip lateral rotator muscles, which are extremely important for pelvic stabilization and hip mobility.

Set up

To begin, slide your feet through a loop resistance band so that the band is around both of your thighs. You will probably want to start with a light to moderate resistance band for this exercise. Lie on your side with your knees bent and your head resting on your arm. You may choose to use a pillow for increased neck comfort.

Oftentimes when doing this exercise, people place their knees too close to their chest. Instead, your heels should be in line with your glutes.

Make sure your spine is in a neutral position - not overly arched or flattened.  Use your core muscles to elongate through your torso and ensure there is a little bit of space between your armpit and your pelvis so that you’re staying nice and long through your top side. Ants should be able to march underneath your side. 

Ensure that your shoulders are stacked, ribs are stacked, hips are stacked, knees are stacked, and feet are stacked.

Movement

Now that you’re in the correct position, lift your top knee up as far as you can without letting your pelvis rotate backward. Then, slowly lower your knee back down to the starting position. Keep your feet together throughout the exercise.

You should feel this working in the outer hip of your top leg.

Tips

  • Go nice and slow. Stay controlled.
  • Make sure, as you’re lifting your knee up, that the hip doesn’t move back with it. You can put your hand on your hip to make sure it stays still.
join us

Get started

Join us and experience our exercise program designed by physical therapists specifically for women with osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Already have an account? Log in here
Check mark
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
We will contact you shortly.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Related articles in the Well Guide

Explore our exercises...

Supine Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise

View exercise

Standing Alternate Hip Flexion

View exercise

Seated Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise

View exercise

Plank with Shoulder Taps

View exercise

Piriformis Stretch Over Chair

View exercise