Training legs is a critical part of most gym-goers routines. The legs consist of multiple major muscle groups including the quadriceps, glutes, hamstrings, adductors, abductors, calves, and hip muscles (such as the flexors). Training these muscles in a balanced manner will create strong, flexible, stable and co-ordinated legs. With so many options available to you, it can be difficult to know which machines do what. In this article, we will look at a selection of Leg Exercise Machines and help you decide which ones are right for your home-gym setup.
- Why Should I Buy a Leg Curl and Extension Machine?
- Why Should I Buy a Leg Curl and Extension Machine with Weight Stack?
- Why Should I Buy a Leg Press and Hack Squat Machine?
- Why Should I Buy a Belt Squat Machine?
- Why Should I Buy a Seated Calf Raise Machine?
- Why Should I Buy a Hip Thruster Machine?
- Why Should I Buy a Tibia Dorsi Machine?
- Why Should I Buy a Hip Abductor/Adductor Machine?
Why Should I Buy a Leg Curl and Extension Machine?
Muscles Worked
• Hamstrings (using the leg curl function).
• Quadriceps (using the leg extension function).
Benefits
• Two machines in one! Work both the quads and hamstrings effectively with just one machine.
• Space saving for those with a small garage gym.
• Provides massive strength boosts in two major muscle groups, the hamstrings, and quads.
• No built-in weight-stack, making it easier to move.
Most Suitable For
This plate loaded Leg Curl Machine machine is suitable for users of any fitness level looking to build strength and size in their quads and hamstrings, especially those with limited space.
Why Should I Buy a Leg Curl and Extension Machine with Weight Stack?
Muscles Worked
• Hamstrings (using the leg curl function).
• Quadriceps (using the leg extension function).
Benefits
• As with the seated leg extension/curl machine, the 2-in-1 design saves space.
• It targets two major leg muscle groups, providing isolated gains for the quads and hamstrings.
• The prone curl feature can provide better isolation and easier control for the hamstrings, resulting in better quality reps.
• Comes with a built-in weight stack, making it quicker to use than a plate loaded machine.
Most Suitable For
As with the standard leg extension, Lying Leg Curl Machine machine is suitable for anyone looking to maximise gains in their hamstrings and quads.
Why Should I Buy a Leg Press and Hack Squat Machine?
Muscles Worked
• Quadriceps.
• Hamstrings.
• Glutes.
• Calves.
• Adductors and Abductors.
• Hip Flexors.
Benefits
• Both the leg press and hack squat are great ways to achieve maximal fibre activation, especially in the glutes, quads, and hamstrings.
• Flexibility - Space saving and designed for quick switching between exercises.
• Exercise Variation - Adjusting simple things such as foot positioning can change the emphasis placed on each muscle group.
• You can also perform exercises unilaterally, target time under tension with tempo training, and perform calf raises, making this machine incredibly versatile.
Most Suitable For
The Leg Press Hack Squat Machine is most suited for those who are serious about gaining lower body strength, or those looking to recruit substantial amounts of muscle fibres in the lower body in their routine efficiently. It is a powerful addition for anyone with a moderate home-gym footprint.
Why Should I Buy a Belt Squat Machine?
Muscles Worked
• Hamstrings.
• Quads.
• Glutes.
• Adductors.
• Calves.
Benefits
• Four squat depths allow you to progress your range and choose a setup most comfortable for you.
• Reduces strain on the upper body versus conventional barbell back squats, allowing you to move large weights without impacting the spine.
• Ideal for a home gym with a low ceiling compared to a rack and barbell package.
• Includes four weight poles to the rear allowing for easy and clean plate storage.
Most Suitable For
The Belt Squat Machine is most suited for users who are striving for exceptional strength levels in the lower body, or who cannot squat with a barbell due to injury risk or existing upper body conditions. It is a great tool for those into competitive sport, such as powerlifting, strongman or bodybuilding. If you already have a power rack in your home gym, you can save money by instead purchasing a belt squat attachment.
Why Should I Buy a Seated Calf Raise Machine?
Muscles Worked
• Calves (gastrocnemius, soleus and plantaris).
• Tibialis posterior (minor muscle).
• Foot stabilisers.
Benefits
• Provides a pure way to isolate, bolster and build strength and size in the lower leg.
• Compact footprint makes it suitable for most home-gyms.
• Loaded with Olympic weight plates, so it is simple to adjust load.
• Eight different heights and an adjustable thigh pad make it suitable for everyone.
Most Suitable For
The Seated Calf Raise Machine is most suitable for any home gym trainer who wishes to build strength and size in the calf muscles. This provides a great option to ensure a complete leg session.
Why Should I Buy a Hip Thruster Machine?
Muscles Worked
• Glutes.
• Hamstrings.
• Quadriceps.
Benefits
• Builds a strong and stable hip extension, transferring over to walking, running, jumping, and squatting.
• Provides definition to the upper leg, with a particular emphasis on glutes.
• An adjustable foot plate and sliding seat allows for optimal positioning across all users.
• Supports better posture and reduces back pain by building the muscles around the hips.
Most Suitable For
A Hip Thruster Machine is best suited to users who are looking to build muscle in their glutes, and for runners who want stronger, more stable legs.
Why Should I Buy a Tibia Dorsi Machine?
Muscles Worked
• Tibialis anterior.
Benefits
• Our most compact leg machine, suitable even for living room gyms.
• Suitable for seated and standing tib raises.
• Works an area of the legs not often targeted in most lower body routines.
• Great for supporting everyday movements such as walking and running, reducing shin splints, ankle pain, and tendon injury.
• Can also improve powerful movements such as squatting and explosive actions like jumping.
Most Suitable For
Whilst a Tibia Dorsi Machine is a great option for virtually anyone looking to improve their balance and stability, it is a crucial option for those who strength train, run, jump, or squat frequently.
Why Should I Buy a Hip Abductor/Adductor Machine?
Muscles Worked
• Adductors - moving the pads inwards.
• Abductors and Glutes (predominantly medius and minimus) – moving the pads outwards.
Benefits
• A 2-in-1 solution that helps you target both your adductors and glutes effectively.
• Improves strength, power, control, stability, and functionality of other leg muscles.
• Strong adductors reduce pressure on the knees, and strong abductors help support the hips.
• Easily switch between adductors and abductors.
• Adjustable leg pads and backrest for optimal positioning.
Most Suitable For
The hip Abductor/Adductor Machine is most suitable for anyone looking to gain strength, control and size in their adductor and abductor muscles. A great piece of equipment to isolate muscles we use in everyday movements and most lower body exercises.
It can be confusing to know which leg machine you should buy for your home gym, especially when there is so much choice. Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of which you need based on your goals. Training legs should not feel complicated and should be a part of everyone’s routine. We have something for everyone, so why not check out the equipment on our website and get in touch if you need any support.
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Tags: Equipment > Gym Machines ; Exercise Type > Strength ; Misc. > Gym Planning
