Benefits of Horizontal Leg Press and How to Safely Use It

The leg press machine is one of the most popular pieces of equipment for performing leg exercises because it’s quite easy to use and it helps you develop the key muscles. However, you should still learn how to properly use it, in order to minimise the risk of injury and maximise your gains. Even though leg muscles aren’t ‘show’ muscles, like the chest and biceps are, they’re extremely important if you want to have a balanced physique.

If you’re looking to add this piece of equipment to your commercial or home gym, then you’ll need to choose from a 45-degree leg press and a standard horizontal leg press machine for sale. You can find many different variations of both the 45-degree and horizontal leg press machine for sale online, and regardless of which type you end up buying, there are a few safety check-points you should follow to ensure the leg press is done correctly.

First and foremost, start modestly by doing three sets of ten leg presses. You don’t even need extra weight to start, since your goal is to just warm up. As you progress through each set, you can add a little bit of weight and advance from there. The exercise should require effort, but no matter how much effort you have to put in, it’s important to make sure you’re in control. Don’t rush through it, and don’t allow your legs to collapse.

Next, ensure you’re following through the entire range of motions, but do not lift your hips. If you have to lift your hips, either lower the weight or adjust the seat. The position of your head is also important – it should be laid comfortably against the seat’s fabric, so if you’re leaning your head forward, it means you’re using too much weight.

Lastly, when you start pushing the weight, you should experience zero knee pain. If one or both of your knees start hurting, don’t push through it – it means you’re doing something wrong. Your knees should be slightly facing outwards so you don’t hurt yourself. It’s best if you start with low weights and gradually increase them as you go. Your movements should be slow and deliberate, and you shouldn’t focus on the number of reps you perform or the weight you’re lifting.

The leg press is a very individual exercise, and you need to adjust the machine to fit your body. As machines can slightly vary, it may be best to ask for some help to adjust it before you start working out. Asking about tips on form and how to correct it is not something to be shy about, many people in the gym will gladly help you and show you how it’s properly done.