Leg Presses (45 degree)
Sources and review status
Review pending — this text hasn’t been signed off by a reviewer yet.
Historical reference: its only source is the original reference manual, and some of it may be out of date. Not used for AI answers until re-sourced.
See this lesson’s sources0% read · 1 min left
45-degree leg press working the quads and adductors; a supplementary substitute for the squat with no spinal compression.
Detail
The 45-degree leg press is a supplementary exercise — a good substitute for the squat for clients who cannot perform the squat movement properly. There is little involvement of the rectus femoris in the 45-degree leg press. Tight hamstrings (and Achilles tendon) restrict ROM for eccentric movements in the squat and leg press. For the incline leg press: no compressive forces on the spine; keep glutes always on the seat pad; check hip-knee-ankle joint positioning. Narrow stances (less than hip width) tend to contact the upper body earlier, limiting ROM; wide stances (more than hip width) give better ROM.
Key facts
- Primary Muscles: Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis, Vastus Intermedius, Adductor Brevis, Adductor Magnus.
- Secondary Muscles: Adductor Longus, Gluteus Maximus.
- Little rectus femoris involvement (45-degree press).
- Supplementary substitute for the squat; no spinal compression.
Connections
- Quadriceps — quad emphasis.
- Hip Adductors — adductors primary.
- Gluteus Maximus — secondary hip extensor.
- Squats — the structural exercise it substitutes for.
Sources
Exercise guides
Keep this lesson, or ask how it applies to you.
Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.