Standing Cable Hip Abduction

Standing Cable Hip Abduction is a strength – resistance exercise exercise involving Gluteus medius, Gluteus minimus. Use these steps to learn the movement and work with your coach to choose a suitable level.

Last updated: 2026-10-31 · DynPerformance

Primary muscles: Gluteus medius, Gluteus minimus
Secondary muscles: Tensor fasciae latae, Hip stabilizers of the supporting leg
Exercise type: Strength – resistance exercise

Exercise technique

Pulley
Connect the cuff to the low pulley and your outer ankle.
Side stance
Stand sideways to the machine and support yourself with your inner hand.
Working foot
Begin with your working foot beside your supporting foot.
Abduct
Move your leg sideways away from your torso.
Pelvic control
Lift the leg without hiking your hip.
Stop
Stop at the range you can reach without leaning sideways.
Return
Resist the cable as you bring your leg back to the start.

Key technique points

Do not lean your torso toward the machine.
Keep the supporting knee unlocked.
Point the working foot’s toes forward.
Keep the cable clear of your supporting foot.
Maintain pelvic height.
Do not swing the leg across on the return.

Common mistakes

Leaning sideways

This increases apparent leg range through torso movement.

Hiking the hip

This adds lateral spinal flexion to hip abduction.

Turning the foot outward

This changes the muscles’ contributions.

Hanging on the support

This disrupts upright torso alignment.

Catching the cable

The return path intersects the supporting foot.

Returning too quickly

The pulley pulls the leg inward without control.

Frequently asked questions