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🦴 Fire Hydrants

Fire Hydrants are an intermediate hip exercise that targets the gluteus medius and hip abductors. On all fours, lift one knee out to the side like a dog at a fire hydrant. They're commonly prescribed during rehabilitation for Hip Bursitis, IT Band Syndrome, and Low Back Pain. Below is how to perform Fire Hydrants with correct form, plus the benefits, common mistakes, and how many reps to aim for.

HipIntermediateMat3 × 12

Benefits of the Fire Hydrants

  • Strengthens and activates the gluteus medius and hip abductors
  • Improves strength
  • Improves stability
  • Supports recovery and rehab for Hip Bursitis, IT Band Syndrome, and Low Back Pain
  • Can be done with simple equipment (mat)
  • Performed quadruped, so it's easy to set up

How to do the Fire Hydrants

  1. Start on hands and knees, hands under shoulders
  2. Keep your back flat
  3. Lift one knee out to the side, keeping it bent
  4. Lift to about 45° from the floor
  5. Slowly lower back down

How many reps & sets

A common starting point is 3 sets of 12 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.

Form tips

  • Don't let your spine twist
  • Squeeze the side glute

Muscles worked

Gluteus medius, Hip abductors

When to be cautious

  • Wrist pain (use forearms)

Who should do the Fire Hydrants?

Fire Hydrants are often included in programs for people recovering from Hip Bursitis, IT Band Syndrome, and Low Back Pain, and for anyone wanting to strengthen the hip. They're rated intermediate.

Fire Hydrants — FAQ

What muscles do Fire Hydrants work?
Fire Hydrants primarily target the gluteus medius and hip abductors.
How many sets and reps of Fire Hydrants should I do?
A common starting point is 3 sets of 12 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.
Are Fire Hydrants good for Hip Bursitis?
Yes — Fire Hydrants are commonly used in rehab for Hip Bursitis and IT Band Syndrome. Confirm with your clinician before starting, especially if you have pain.
Do I need equipment for Fire Hydrants?
You'll need: mat.
When should I avoid Fire Hydrants?
Take care or skip them if you have: wrist pain (use forearms). When in doubt, check with your physiotherapist.
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