Abductor exercises

Lateral Band Walk

Also known as: Marche latérale avec élastique · Πλάγια βήματα με λάστιχο · band walk · lateral walk · monster walk

Primary
Abductors
Level
Beginner
Type
Isolation
Suggested rest
45 s

How to do the Lateral Band Walk

  1. Place a mini band around your legs, above your ankles or knees.

  2. Bend your knees and hips slightly into a half-squat.

  3. Step sideways, keeping tension on the band and your knees pushed out.

  4. Finish your steps in one direction, then go back the other way.

Sets and reps

GoalSetsRepsRest
Muscle growth2–410–1545 s
Muscular endurance2–315–2545 s

When you hit the top of the rep range on every set, add a rep or a harder variation next session.

Starting points from training research. Stop each set 1–3 reps short of failure.

Muscles worked

Primary

Abductors

Secondary

Glutes

The outer hip (glute medius and minimus) moves the leg out and keeps your knees and pelvis stable on one leg. Abductions and band walks build it.

Alternatives

Same muscles, similar movement: swap in one of these if the Lateral Band Walk doesn’t suit your gym or your joints.

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