Movement overview

The leg press is a compound lower body exercise that targets the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. It is performed using a leg press machine, where the user pushes a weighted platform away using their legs. This exercise is effective for building strength and muscle mass in the lower body.

Step-by-step cues

1. Sit on the leg press machine with your back and head resting comfortably against the padded support.
2. Place your feet shoulder-width apart on the platform, ensuring your heels are flat and toes are slightly pointed out.
3. Adjust the seat so that your knees are at a 90-degree angle when starting.
4. Grip the handles on either side of the seat to stabilize your upper body.
5. Press the platform away by extending your legs, keeping your feet flat and pushing through your heels.
6. Do not lock your knees at the top of the movement; maintain a slight bend.
7. Slowly lower the platform back to the starting position by bending your knees, ensuring they do not collapse inward.
8. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Technical tips

• Ensure your lower back remains in contact with the seat throughout the movement to avoid strain.
• Focus on pushing through your heels rather than your toes to engage more of your glutes and hamstrings.
• Maintain a controlled tempo; avoid letting the weight slam down to prevent injury.
• Keep your core engaged to support your lower back during the exercise.
• Adjust foot placement to target different muscles: higher on the platform for more glute and hamstring activation, lower for more quadriceps focus.