Appears in642 Workouts*

Standing Hip Bent-Knee Circle

The Standing Hip Bent-Knee Circle mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs) and glutes & hips, with help from the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Liney Bezuidenhout
Liney Bezuidenhout
@Liney Bezuidenhout

Standing Hip Bent-Knee Circle Muscles Worked

Primary

Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Glutes (gluteus maximus)

Secondary

Hip Rotators; Hip Flexor (iliopsoas)

How to do the Standing Hip Bent-Knee Circle

Setup

  • Stand tall next to a wall or sturdy surface for support.

  • Extend one arm and press your hand against the wall to maintain balance.

  • Place your other hand on your hip.

  • Stand on one leg, keeping your feet hip-width apart to begin.

Movement

  • Lift the leg that is not touching the wall, bending the knee to a 90-degree angle so your thigh is parallel to the ground.

  • Begin the movement by moving the knee out to the side (abduction), maintaining the 90-degree bend.

  • Circle the knee upward and across the front of your body, rotating the hip joint.

  • Return the leg to the starting position with your thigh facing forward.

  • Perform all repetitions on one side before switching to the other leg.

Standing Hip Bent-Knee Circle FAQs

What muscles does the Standing Hip Bent-Knee Circle work?

The Standing Hip Bent-Knee Circle mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs) and glutes & hips, with help from the core. The main muscles are the gluteus medius and gluteus maximus.

What equipment do you need for the Standing Hip Bent-Knee Circle?

None. The Standing Hip Bent-Knee Circle is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

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