About the Seated Leg Curl Exercise

The same principals that apply to the lying leg curls apply to the seated version as well. The muscle recruitment can be manipulated by alternating foot position. Performing the repetitions with the feet rotated outward will place more emphasis on the lateral aspect of the hamstrings, while inwardly rotating the feet will increase the recruitment within the medial aspect. If the feet do not sway to either side, equal recruitment will be drawn from both the medial and lateral aspect. Muscle recruitment can also be manipulated by varying the toe position throughout the movement. Pointing the toe during the repetition will reduce the involvement of the calf muscle and place more reliance on the hamstrings to carry out the act of knee flexion. If you point the toe up towards the knee, the opposite effect will occur and the additional calf recruitment will simplify the action of knee flexion and allow additional repetitions or weight to be lifted.

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Video Demonstration

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Exercise Instructions

1. While seated, adjust the ankle pads so they are aligned with the Achilles tendon located just above the heel. Adjust and lock down the thigh pad comfortably at a position slightly above the knees.
2. Select the appropriate resistance.
3. Exhale, flex at the knees and bring the heels under the body and towards the buttocks. A contraction should be felt within the hamstrings.
4. Inhale and lower back to starting position at a controlled speed.
5. Repeat until the desired number of repetitions are completed.

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Variations

Pointing your toes will reduce the involvement of the calves and place additional reliance on the hamstrings to flex the leg.

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Drawing the toes up towards the knees will increase the involvement of the calves and thus, make the movement easier to perform. You’ll be able to handle a heavier load when utilizing this foot position.