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Clamshell

BeginnerStrengthTier T1
Clamshell

Side-lying glute medius exercise essential for SI joint stability. Strengthens the muscles that control pelvic position.

Targets: SI Joint
Muscles: Gluteus Medius

Stop if

Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.

This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

  • Works at home
  • Works at the gym

none

Home Options

  • bodyweight

Dosage

2

Sets

15

Reps / Time

30 sec

Rest

2 sec up / 2 sec down

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Lie on your side with knees bent at 45 degrees
  • Keep feet stacked together
  • Bottom arm under head, top hand on hip
  1. Clamshell - Step 1 of 5: Keep feet pressed together throughout

    Step 1 of 5

    Keep feet pressed together throughout

  2. Clamshell - Step 2 of 5: Slowly lift top knee toward ceiling

    Step 2 of 5

    Slowly lift top knee toward ceiling

  3. Clamshell - Step 3 of 5: Only go as far as you can without rolling back

    Step 3 of 5

    Only go as far as you can without rolling back

  4. Clamshell - Step 4 of 5: Pause briefly at top

    Step 4 of 5

    Pause briefly at top

  5. Clamshell - Step 5 of 5: Lower with control

    Step 5 of 5

    Lower with control

Breathing

  • Exhale as you lift knee
  • Inhale as you lower

Form Cues

  • Feet stay glued together
  • Don't roll backward
  • Feel the burn in outer hip
  • Keep movement slow and controlled

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Rolling hips backward
  • Letting feet separate
  • Using momentum
  • Going too high and losing form

Safety Information

Reduce range if lateral hip pain flares.

Progressions

Add mini-band above knees

Banded ClamshellBeginner

Regressions

Smaller range of motion