Seated Leg Press
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The Seated Leg Press is a bodyweight strength exercise performed in a seated position where you press your legs against an imaginary resistance or use a machine-like motion to extend your knees and hips, targeting the quads, glutes, and posterior thighs (hamstrings) for lower-body power and hypertrophy. It builds leg strength and endurance without needing equipment beyond a stable seat or floor space. Ideal for beginners, home trainers, or those rehabbing injuries seeking a controlled, joint-friendly alternative to weighted squats.
How to Perform Seated Leg Press
- 1Sit on the floor with your legs extended straight in front of you, feet flexed (toes pointing up), and hip-width apart. Place your hands by your sides for support, palms down.
- 2Engage your core and press your lower back firmly into the floor to maintain a neutral spine.
- 3Inhale deeply, then bend your knees to lower your heels toward your glutes, sliding your feet back as far as comfortable while keeping knees tracking over toes.
- 4Exhale as you press through your heels to fully extend your legs, squeezing your quads and glutes at the top without locking knees.
- 5Inhale again and controlledly bend your knees to return to the starting position, keeping movement smooth.
- 6Repeat for desired reps, maintaining steady breathing (inhale on lowering, exhale on pressing).
- 7Key form tips: Keep your lower back pressed into the floor—avoid arching. Use a full range of motion without letting heels lift. Common mistakes: Rounding the back, partial reps, or locking knees at the top.
