Which muscles does the leg press work?

The leg press mainly works your quadriceps and glutes. It also involves your hamstrings.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.

How do I track the leg press in SweatByte?

Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the weight and reps for each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.

Leg Press: how to do it and muscles worked

The leg press mainly works your quadriceps and glutes, with help from your hamstrings. You need a gym machine.

Muscles worked

Main

Helping

Hamstrings

How to do the leg press

1
Sit in the machine with your back flat against the pad and place your feet shoulder-width apart in the middle of the platform. Release the safety handles and grip the side handles.
2
Lower the platform by bending your knees toward your chest until they reach about 90 degrees. Press through your whole foot to straighten your legs.
3
Lower slowly over 2 to 3 seconds, breathing in on the way down and out as you press. Keep your lower back and hips on the pad.

Form tip: Do not lock your knees hard at the top or let your hips curl up; stop before your lower back leaves the seat.

Common questions

Which muscles does the leg press work?: The leg press mainly works your quadriceps and glutes. It also involves your hamstrings.
What equipment do I need for the leg press?: You need a gym machine.
How many sets and reps should I do?: A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.
How do I track the leg press in SweatByte?: Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the weight and reps for each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.

More quadriceps exercises

General information, not medical advice. Learn the movement with light weight first, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury or pain. More guides in Learn.