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Exercise library · Hamstrings

How to Do Seated Leg Curl

Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the seated leg curl.

Seated Leg Curl animated demonstration from start to end position
Main musclesHamstrings
Also works—
EquipmentMachine
LevelBeginner
TypeStrength

How to do it

  1. Adjust the machine lever to fit your height and sit on the machine with your back against the back support pad.
  2. Place the back of lower leg on top of padded lever (just a few inches under the calves) and secure the lap pad against your thighs, just above the knees. Then grasp the side handles on the machine as you point your toes straight (or you can also use any of the other two stances) and ensure that the legs are fully straight right in front of you. This will be your starting position.
  3. As you exhale, pull the machine lever as far as possible to the back of your thighs by flexing at the knees. Keep your torso stationary at all times. Hold the contracted position for a second.
  4. Slowly return to the starting position as you breathe in.
  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Form tips

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Gear for this exercise

Gym duffel bagGym duffel bagShoe compartment and space for everything.See it on Amazon →Gym glovesGym glovesBetter grip and fewer calluses.See it on Amazon →

Exercise photos and instructions: free-exercise-db (public domain). Animation made from the real start and end photos.

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