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Exercise Guide

How to do resistance band lateral walk

Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.

The resistance band lateral walk is a highly effective corrective and strengthening exercise for the gluteus medius and hip abductors. By placing a band around the ankles or knees and stepping sideways, you build hip stability and prevent common injuries related to knee valgus. This low-impact movement is perfect for warm-ups, physical therapy, or as a finishing exercise to ensure healthy, functional hip mechanics during complex lifts.

Stats

TIER
3
DIFFICULTY
Intermediate to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Resistance Band
TARGET MUSCLES
Glutes

Instructions for Proper Form

Setup:

  1. Band Placement: Place a mini resistance band around both legs, just above your ankles.
  2. Stance: Stand with your feet hip-width apart, toes pointing forward.
  3. Body Position: Bend your knees slightly and hinge at the hips, lowering your body into a partial squat position. Keep your back straight and core engaged.

The Lift:

  1. Lateral Step: Take a step to the side with one foot, pushing against the resistance of the band. Keep your toes pointed forward and your core engaged.
  2. Bring Feet Together: Bring your other foot towards your leading foot, returning to the starting position.
  3. Repeat: Continue stepping laterally in one direction for the desired number of repetitions, then switch directions and repeat the movement.

Tips:

  • Tension in the Band: Maintain tension in the band throughout the exercise. Avoid letting the band become slack.
  • Foot Position: Keep your toes pointed forward and your feet flat on the ground.
  • Hip Position: Avoid letting your hips sway or rotate as you step. Keep them stable and level.
  • Variations: You can increase or decrease the resistance by using a different band, or by adjusting the placement of the band around your legs.

Common mistakes: Letting the toes point outward instead of forward, dragging the trailing foot, and standing too upright instead of maintaining an athletic stance.

Alternatives

Hip Thrust Machine

machine hipthrust

Glutes
Bench

barbell hip thrust

Glutes
Bench

bench glute bridge

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Barbell

barbell clean deadlift

GlutesHamstrings+1
Resistance Band

resistance band lateral walk

Glutes
Resistance Band

resistance band clam shell

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Bench

single leg hip thrust

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Barbell

barbell rack pull

GlutesHamstrings
Cable

cable pull through

GlutesHamstrings
Kettlebell

kettlebell swing

GlutesHamstrings+2
Cable

cable hip adduction

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Seated Hip Adduction Machine

seated hip adduction

Glutes
Seated Hip Abduction Machine

seated hip abduction

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Back Extension Machine

machine back extension

Glutes
Bench

glute bridge on bench

Glutes
Bench

dumbbell bulgarian split squat

GlutesQuads
Back Extension

back extension(hyperextension)

GlutesHamstrings
Jump Box

box jump

GlutesQuads+2