Exercise library · Quads

How to Do Single-Leg Leg Extension

Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the single-leg leg extension.

How to do it

1. Seat yourself in the machine and adjust it so that you are positioned properly. The pad should be against the lower part of the shin but not in contact with the ankle. Adjust the seat so that the pivot point is in line with your knee. Select a weight appropriate for your abilities.
2. Maintaining good posture, fully extend one leg, pausing at the top of the motion.
3. Return to the starting position without letting the weight stop, keeping tension on the muscle.
4. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Form tips

• Start light and own the movement before adding weight.
• Control the lowering phase — don't drop into it.
• Keep breathing; exhale on the hardest part.
• Stop if you feel sharp pain (different from muscle burn).

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Gear for this exercise

Gym duffel bagShoe compartment and space for everything.See it on Amazon →Gym 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.