Legs

Hip Abductor Machine

The hip abduction machine pushes your thighs apart while seated: it works the side of the glutes that squats barely touch.

Hip Abductor Machine: starting position
1Starting positionStart
Hip Abductor Machine: end position
2End positionFinish

Setup

Sit with your back on the pad or leaning slightly forward, pads on the outside of your knees. Hold the handles. Push your knees apart as far as they go and bring them back slowly.

Execution

  1. Sit down, place your legs against the pads — starting position.
  2. Exhale and push your legs apart against the resistance.
  3. Inhale and bring them back together without rocking your body.

Common mistakes

  • Letting the pads slam together — bring them back under control.
  • Short range with a heavy stack — go lighter and all the way.
  • Helping with your arms and torso — your hips do the work.
  • Only 6–8 reps — these muscles like 12–20.

Programs that include it

Not sure about your form? Send me a video of a set — I'll take a look and tell you what to fix first.

More for this muscle group: Legs

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Position photos from the open free-exercise-db.