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Last updated March 5, 2026
AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadriceps
Leg Press - 45-Degree
Load the machine and place feet shoulder-width apart. Lower the sled until your knees are at 90 degrees. Push back up through your heels, but never lock your knees out at the top.
Quick facts
- Level
- Intermediate
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- Very High
- Calorie Burn
- High
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
Quads
Secondary
Glutes (max)
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
Sled Machine
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Seated
Tracking parameters
repsweight
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Sit on the leg press machine with your back against the padded support.
- Adjust the seat so that your knees are at a 90-degree angle when your feet are on the platform.
- Step 2Position Your Feet
- Place your feet shoulder-width apart on the platform, ensuring that your heels are flat.
- Your toes can point slightly outward for better stability.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Before starting the movement, engage your core to stabilize your body.
- Keep your back pressed against the padded support throughout the exercise.
- Step 4Release the Safety
- If your leg press machine has a safety mechanism, release it before you begin the exercise.
- Ensure you are ready to perform the movement safely.
- Step 5Press the Weight
- Push through your heels and extend your legs to lift the weight, keeping your knees aligned with your toes.
- Do not lock your knees at the top of the movement.
- Step 6Lower the Weight
- Slowly bend your knees to lower the weight back down, ensuring your knees do not go past your toes.
- Stop when your knees are at a 90-degree angle or slightly below.
- Step 7Repeat
- Repeat the pressing and lowering motion for the desired number of repetitions.
- Focus on maintaining proper form throughout each rep.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully return the weight to the starting position.
- Engage the safety mechanism if applicable before getting up from the machine.
Alternatives & variations
Explore similar movements targeting the same muscles.

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