Lying Leg Curls

Adjust the machine lever to fit your height and lie face down on the leg curl machine with the pad of the lever on the back of your legs (just a few inches under the calves). Tip: Preferably use a leg curl machine that is angled as opposed to flat since an angled position is more favorable for hamstrings recruitment. Keeping the torso flat on the bench, ensure your legs are fully stretched and grab the side handles of the machine. Position your toes straight (or you can also use any of the other two stances described on the foot positioning section). This will be your starting position. As you exhale, curl your legs up as far as possible without lifting the upper legs from the pad. Once you hit the fully contracted position, hold it for a second.

Lying Leg Curls primarily trains the hamstrings. The exact demand depends on your setup, range, and chosen load.

Rehearse the setup with a manageable load or easy variation. Follow the exercise-specific steps below through a controlled range. Repeat the same setup each set and stop when you lose control of the movement.

Related options include Seated Leg Curl, Standing Leg Curl, Calf Press. These can have different equipment, range, and movement demands. Open the guides below to compare the setups before choosing a replacement.