Exercise

Single-Leg Leg Extension

Also known as: single leg extension, one leg leg extension, unilateral leg extension, single leg knee extension

Single-Leg Leg Extension is a isolation exercise for the quadriceps. Main target: rectus femoris, vastus lateralis and vastus medialis. Also works: vastus intermedius. Equipment: machine.

EquipmentMachine

TypeIsolation

MovementPush

CategoryStrength

Muscles worked

Primary

Rectus femoris Vastus lateralis Vastus medialis

Secondary

Vastus intermedius

How to do it

Seat yourself in the machine and adjust it so that you are positioned properly. The pad should be against the lower part of the shin but not in contact with the ankle. Adjust the seat so that the pivot point is in line with your knee. Select a weight appropriate for your abilities.
Maintaining good posture, fully extend one leg, pausing at the top of the motion.
Return to the starting position without letting the weight stop, keeping tension on the muscle.
Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.