Leg Extension
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Log this exerciseMuscles
Technique
Sit in the leg extension machine with your shins against the pad. Extend your legs until they are straight, squeezing the quadriceps at the top. Lower the weight back down slowly, stopping just before the weight stack touches. Avoid slamming the weight.
Steps
- Adjust the backrest so your knees align with the machine's pivot point
- Position the shin pad just above your ankles
- Grip the handles and keep your hips against the seat
- Extend your knees until your legs are straight
- Squeeze your quadriceps briefly at the top
- Lower the weight slowly and stop before the stack touches
Common mistakes
- Setting the knee joint out of line with the machine's pivot
- Lifting the hips off the seat during extension
- Swinging the weight up with momentum
- Letting the weight stack slam between repetitions
Variations
- Single-leg machine leg extension
- Alternating-leg machine leg extension
- Isometric-hold leg extension
- Resistance-band seated leg extension
Related exercises
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Try ForceIndex freeFAQ
What muscles does Leg Extension work?
Muscles: Quads.
What equipment do I need for Leg Extension?
Equipment: Machine.
Where can I do Leg Extension?
Location: Gym.
Calculators & tools
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