Clamshell Exercise. The clamshell exercise can improve multiple injuries including the IT band knee and ankle sprains and lower back pain. This makes them an effective abductor exercise working the glutes hips pelvic floor abs and thighs.
This exercise can be used therapeutically to eliminate back hip or knee pain or it can be used as a preventative measure to improve strength and prevent painful problems. But equally important is the gluteus medius muscle which sits on the outside of the buttocks and upper. And one of the best ways to keep the hips functioning is with something called the clamshell exercise.
In regards to movement patterns the body always takes the path of least resistance ie.
You may be familiar with the gluteus maximus the largest of the buttock muscles. When performing moves like a squat or deadlift in which one of the primary goals is to build glute strength its important to first activate the muscles that will be doing the work. The clamshell exercise is a great way to strengthen your hip abductors while the reverse clamshell is excellent for working those hip abductors. The clamshell exercise targets your gluteus medius this is the muscle that forms the outside edge of your butt and side of your hip.
