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Beginner Prevention & Rehabilitation

Clamshell Exercise

A hip strengthening exercise that targets the gluteus medius muscle. Strong gluteus medius muscles are essential for hip stability, proper walking mechanics, and preventing knee valgus. This exercise is fundamental in hip and knee rehabilitation.

Duration
8 minutes
Sets & Reps
3 sets × 15 reps each side
Difficulty
Beginner
Body Part
Hip & Groin

Equipment Needed

Optional: resistance band above knees

Benefits

  • Strengthens the gluteus medius for hip stability
  • Prevents knee valgus (inward collapse) during walking
  • Improves single-leg balance and gait mechanics
  • Key exercise for IT band syndrome prevention

How to Perform

  1. 1

    Lie on your side with your hips and knees bent at 45 degrees, feet together.

  2. 2

    Keeping your feet together, raise your top knee as high as you can without rotating your pelvis.

    Tip: Keep your core engaged to prevent your body from rolling backward.
  3. 3

    Hold at the top for 2 seconds, then slowly lower.

  4. 4

    Complete all reps on one side, then switch.

Safety Tips

Do not roll your pelvis backward – the movement comes from the hip only.
Start without resistance and add a band only when comfortable.
Stop if you feel pinching pain in the hip.
Keep your feet stacked together throughout the movement.

Who Should Avoid This Exercise

Recent hip replacement (first 6-12 weeks, depending on surgical approach)
Acute hip labral tear
Active hip joint infection or severe inflammation
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Evidence-based physiotherapy for persistent pain conditions. We use a biopsychosocial approach combining manual therapy, graded exercise therapy, pain neuroscience education, and self-management strategies to help you take control of your pain and improve your quality of life. PhysioNear has helped 5,000+ Malaysians find the right pain management physiotherapist over 14 years. Most chronic pain patients report meaningful relief within 6–8 sessions.

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More Hip & Groin Exercises

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are clamshell exercises important for runners?

Runners need strong gluteus medius muscles to stabilize the pelvis during single-leg stance (which occurs with every stride). Weak glute med leads to hip drop, knee valgus, and common running injuries like IT band syndrome, patellofemoral pain, and shin splints. Clamshells are an effective way to isolate and strengthen this muscle.

How do I make clamshell exercises harder?

Progress clamshells by: adding a resistance band above the knees, holding the open position longer (5 seconds), adding a hip extension component at the top, or performing side-lying hip abduction (straight leg lifts). Only progress when you can complete 15 repetitions with perfect form.

Can clamshell exercises help with knee pain?

Yes, surprisingly, clamshells can significantly help with knee pain. Many types of knee pain (especially patellofemoral pain) are caused by weakness in the hip muscles. When the gluteus medius is weak, the thigh rotates inward, placing abnormal stress on the knee. Strengthening the hip with clamshells helps realign the entire lower limb.

Professionally reviewed
| Reviewed by Lim Kah Yee, BSc Physiotherapy (IMU), Certified Sports Physiotherapist |

These exercises are for educational purposes only. Consult a licensed physiotherapist or healthcare professional before starting any exercise program. Stop immediately if you experience pain, dizziness, or discomfort. These exercises are not a substitute for professional physiotherapy treatment.