What makes this exercise particularly effective?
The leg press allows you to specifically target the leg muscles – primarily the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteus maximus, with secondary engagement of the adductors and lower back. Thanks to the guided movement, it is particularly beginner-friendly and joint-friendly, as the core and posture are stabilized. Additionally, you can move significantly more weight, which promotes muscle growth and strength gains.
What effect does the exercise achieve?
Targeted lower-body strengthening – ideal for the thighs, glutes, and calves.
Gentle on the back and joints – particularly suitable for people with back or knee issues.
Efficient high-volume training – stability allows you to complete many repetitions with heavy loads.
Muscle and performance development – enhances squat and deadlift performance through specific strengthening of the quadriceps.
Muscle tone and bone health – improves definition and vitality in the lower body and supports mobility as you age.
How does this exercise fit into the Big 5 concept?
The Big 5 include the fundamental exercises: squat, deadlift, bench press, pull-up or lat pulldown, and shoulder press. The leg press complements this concept perfectly:
Muscle isolation – targets the lower body, especially the glutes and quadriceps, to complement the Big 5 with focused work.
Supports functional strength – increases performance in squats and deadlifts through targeted leg extension.
Beginner- and recovery-friendly – ideal for entry-level training or for safely building strength after injuries or a longer break.



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