Hip Abduction (Cable): how to do it and muscles worked

The hip abduction (cable) mainly works your abductors and glutes. You need a cable machine.

Muscles worked

How to do the hip abduction (cable)

  1. 1

    Clip an ankle strap to a low cable, attach it to the leg farthest from the stack, hold the frame and stand tall with a slight bend in the standing knee.

  2. 2

    Lift the working leg straight out to the side, leading with your heel, until you feel the outer hip squeeze.

  3. 3

    Hold for a second, then lower slowly back across your body without letting the weight rest. Switch legs after your reps. Breathe out as you lift.

Form tip: Keep your torso upright and do not lean away or swing your leg to lift the load.

Common questions

Which muscles does the hip abduction (cable) work?
The hip abduction (cable) mainly works your abductors and glutes.
What equipment do I need for the hip abduction (cable)?
You need a cable machine.
How many sets and reps should I do?
A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.
How do I track the hip abduction (cable) in SweatByte?
Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the weight and reps for each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.

More abductors exercises

General information, not medical advice. Learn the movement with light weight first, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury or pain. More guides in Learn.

Hip Abduction (Cable): how to do it and muscles worked · SweatByte