EXERCISE GUIDE
45-Degree Leg Press
A supported press for the thighs and glutes on an inclined sled. Keep feet, back and pelvis supported throughout the movement.
01Muscles used
Main muscles
- Quadriceps
- Gluteus maximus
Assisting & stabilizing muscles
- Hamstrings (assist hip movement and stability)
- Trunk and grip muscles (help maintain supported posture)
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
- Secure the carriage before setup. Keep back and buttocks on the pad, brace and plant both whole feet symmetrically at a comfortable width.
- Take the carriage weight with your legs before releasing the stops as instructed. Hold the stabilizing handles.
- Inhale and bend hips and knees slowly. Stop before your pelvis curls or low back rounds, keeping heels and pad contact.
- Exhale and press without knee hyperextension. At the finish, engage the stops and settle the carriage onto them before exiting.
04Technique cues
- Let knees follow the toes and keep the whole foot supported.
- Use a controlled depth rather than forcing a fixed knee angle or thighs into the ribs.
05Cautions
- Learn the actual machine release, reracking and emergency procedures; never release unsupported load.
- Never adjust or change plates with the carriage suspended. Confirm it is supported before removing feet; stop for pain or dizziness.