EXERCISE GUIDE
Seated Leg Extension
A supported machine exercise for the front of the thighs. Straighten your knees while keeping the pelvis and thighs steady.
01Muscles used
Main muscles
- Quadriceps: rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis and vastus intermedius
Assisting & stabilizing muscles
- Abdominal and back muscles (stabilize seated posture and pelvis)
- Forearm muscles (hold the handles)
Assisting roles include movement support and postural stability. Their contribution varies with form and load.
02See the movement
Illustrations are reproduced from the exercise guides. Select an image to enlarge it.
03How to perform
- Sit with back and pelvis supported. Adjust the seat so your knee rotation centers roughly align with the machine pivot.
- Place the roller on the front lower shins just above the ankles. Select a comfortable bent-knee start, hold the handles and relax your ankles.
- Exhale and straighten both knees smoothly within a comfortable range, without lifting hips or snapping into lockout.
- Inhale and return slowly to the same start, moving your lower legs and roller together without slamming the stack.
04Technique cues
- Maintain knee/pivot alignment and lower-shin contact.
- Keep your back, hips and thighs supported; do not force toe rotation or universal joint angles.
05Cautions
- Secure all pins and adjust only when the lever and stack are still. Let the mechanism stop before exiting.
- Stop for knee pain or dizziness. Follow qualified guidance for knee symptoms or postoperative restrictions.