Exercise guide

Leg Extension

The Leg Extension isolates the quadriceps by extending the knees against machine resistance.

Category
Strength
Difficulty
Beginner
Movement
Isolation
Bodyweight
No
How to

How to do the Leg Extension

  1. 01

    Sit on the leg extension machine with your back against the pad.

  2. 02

    Position your ankles behind the padded bar.

  3. 03

    Grip the handles at your sides.

  4. 04

    Extend your legs until they are straight.

  5. 05

    Squeeze your quadriceps at the top.

  6. 06

    Lower the weight slowly back to the starting position.

Performance tips

Cues that matter

  • Keep your hips firmly against the seat
  • Avoid locking out aggressively at the top
  • Control the lowering phase to maintain tension
Muscles

Muscles worked

Equipment

What you need

Common questions

Frequently asked

What muscles does the Leg Extension work?

The Leg Extension primarily targets the Quads.

Is the Leg Extension a compound or isolation exercise?

The Leg Extension is an isolation exercise, meaning it focuses on a single muscle group through one joint movement.

What equipment do I need for the Leg Extension?

You need the following equipment: Leg Extension.

What difficulty level is the Leg Extension?

The Leg Extension is rated as beginner difficulty. It is suitable for those new to resistance training.

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