Leg press
Also called machine leg press, sled press
- Works
- Front of the thigh · quadriceps
- Buttocks · gluteus maximus
- Inner thigh · adductors
- Needs
- Weight machines
Setup
Sit with your back flat against the pad. Put your feet on the plate shoulder-width apart, in the middle.
Steps
- Push the plate until your legs are nearly straight, then release the safety handles.
- Bend your knees and lower the plate slowly.
- Stop before your lower back lifts off the pad.
- Push back until your legs are nearly straight. Do not lock the knees.
- Put the safety handles back after the last rep.
Breathing
Breathe in as you lower. Breathe out as you push.
Where you feel it
In the front of your thighs and your buttocks.
Common mistakes
- Lowering so far that the hips roll up off the pad.
- Locking the knees hard at the top.
- Pushing with the heels lifting.
When to stop
Stop if you feel sharp pain, pain in a joint, dizziness or numbness.