FormTwin › Exercises › Leg Press

What muscles does the Leg Press work?

The leg press lets you load your quads and glutes heavily with the back supported — a joint-friendly way to build lower-body size.

Primary muscles worked

Secondary muscles worked

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How to do the Leg Press

  1. Sit back with feet shoulder-width on the platform.
  2. Release the safeties and lower under control.
  3. Bring your knees toward your chest until ~90°.
  4. Press back up without locking your knees hard.

Common mistakes

Variations

High-foot leg pressSingle-leg pressHack squat

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the leg press work?

The leg press works mainly the quads, with the glutes and adductors assisting. A higher foot position shifts more work to the glutes and hamstrings; a lower position emphasises the quads.

Is the leg press as good as squats?

The leg press builds the quads and glutes well and is easier to learn and load safely, but it trains less core and stabiliser work than the squat. Many people use both.

Why does the leg press hurt my knees?

Usually it's too much weight through a short range, or knees caving in. Lighten the load, control the descent, and keep your knees tracking over your toes.

Related exercises

DeadliftBack SquatBench PressPull-UpPush-Up

This guide is general fitness information, not medical advice. Muscle involvement varies with form, grip and individual anatomy. Consult a professional before starting a new program.