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Dumbbell Clamshell

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Muscles worked

High load
Abductors and Glutes · Medius

Primary muscles

How to do it

Lie on your side with your hips and knees bent and your feet together. Hold a light dumbbell against the outside of the upper thigh, just above the knee. Lift the upper knee while keeping your feet together and pelvis still, then lower with control.

Form cues

  • Keep your feet together.
  • Do not roll your pelvis backward.

Safety

Talk to a professional before this exercise if you have any of the following:

HipKneeLower backShoulderWrist

This is general exercise reference, not medical advice. Stop and consult a qualified professional if an exercise causes pain, and never work through joint pain.