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Exercise Guide

How to do machine lying leg curl

Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.

This isolation exercise specifically targets the hamstrings by providing constant tension throughout the range of motion. Lying prone on the machine ensures stability, allowing you to focus entirely on the knee flexion movement. It is excellent for building muscle hypertrophy in the back of the legs and improving knee joint health by balancing the strength of the quadriceps and hamstrings.

Stats

DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Lying Leg Curl
TARGET MUSCLES
Hamstrings

Instructions for Proper Form

Setup:

  1. Position: Lie face down on a lying leg curl machine. Adjust the machine so your knees are just off the edge of the bench.
  2. Pad Placement: Position the padded lever so it rests comfortably on the back of your ankles/lower calves.
  3. Grip: Grasp the handles in front of you for stability.

The Movement:

  1. Curl: Exhale and curl your legs up towards your glutes by flexing your knees. Focus on pulling with your hamstrings.
  2. Squeeze: Continue until you achieve maximum contraction in your hamstrings at the top of the movement.
  3. Lower: Inhale and slowly lower the weight back to the starting position in a controlled manner.

Tips:

  • Keep your hips pressed firmly into the bench throughout the exercise. Avoid lifting your hips to move the weight.
  • Perform the movement in a slow and controlled fashion, especially the lowering (eccentric) phase.
  • Point your toes (plantar flexion) or pull them towards your shins (dorsiflexion) to see which feels better for your hamstring activation.

Common mistakes: Lifting the hips off the pad during the contraction and performing the eccentric phase too quickly.

Alternatives

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None

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Resistance Band

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Kettlebell

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Barbell

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Lying Leg Curl

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Dumbbell

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Barbell

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