Leg Presses (Narrow)
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
leg press machine Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A leg press variation using a narrow foot stance that emphasizes the quadriceps while reducing hip and glute involvement compared to wider stances.
Instructions
- Sit on the leg press machine and position your feet on the platform so that they are close together, with only enough space to fit another foot between them.
- Keep your feet parallel with toes pointing straight ahead.
- Lower the safety bars and press the platform upward until your legs are nearly fully extended without locking the knees.
- Lower the weight under control by bending your knees until they form approximately a 90-degree angle with your upper legs.
- Immediately push through your heels to drive the platform back up to the starting position, maintaining fluid, controlled movement.
- The knees will naturally point slightly outward during the descent.
- Continue for the desired number of repetitions.
Tips
- A narrow stance shifts emphasis from the glutes to the quadriceps
- Keep the movement smooth and fluid without pausing at the bottom
- Maintain constant tension by not locking out at the top
- Keep your back and head against the seat throughout the movement
- Your range of motion may be slightly greater than with a wider stance
- This stance is more demanding on the knees, so control is essential
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 7 reps | 44 kg | 31 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps | 40 kg | 28 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps | 30 kg | 21 kg |
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