Fire Hydrant (Band)
An isolation exercise that targets the glutes and hip abductors using a resistance band while in a quadruped position.
Instructions
- Begin on your hands and knees in a quadruped position.
- Place a resistance band around your thighs just above the knees.
- Keep your hands directly below your shoulders and your knees below your hips.
- Raise one knee out to the side, pushing against the band resistance.
- Keep your spine neutral and avoid rotating your torso.
- Return your knee to the starting position in a controlled manner.
- Complete all repetitions on one side, then switch to the other leg.
Tips
- Keep your core engaged and your back neutral throughout the exercise.
- The movement should be controlled; avoid momentum-based motions.
- Squeeze your glutes and abductors at the top of the movement.
- Perform the exercise equally on both sides for balanced development.
- This exercise is effective for lateral glute and hip abductor activation.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 9 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 13 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 16 reps |