Seated Leg Curl

Adjust the machine lever to fit your height and sit on the machine with your back against the back support pad. Place the back of lower leg on top of padded lever (just a few inches under the calves) and secure the lap pad against your thighs, just above the knees. Then grasp the side handles on the machine as you point your toes straight (or you can also use any of the other two stances) and ensure that the legs are fully straight right in front of you. This will be your starting position. As you exhale, pull the machine lever as far as possible to the back of your thighs by flexing at the knees. Keep your torso stationary at all times. Hold the contracted position for a second.

Seated Leg Curl 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 Standing Leg Curl, Lying Leg Curls, Seated Calf Raise. These can have different equipment, range, and movement demands. Open the guides below to compare the setups before choosing a replacement.