Leg Extension

Setup

- Inspect the machine and all pins, pads or stops. Choose a conservative first load and make sure you can leave the position safely.

- For Leg Extension, keep the implement, grip, support and direction shown by the name and, when available, the image. If that setup is unavailable, choose an offered alternative instead of improvising another exercise.

- Align the machine pivot with the knee and place the pad above the ankle. Keep hips and back on the seat.

Execution

- Extend to a strong but unforced top position, pause, then lower without letting the stack slam.

Range, tempo and breathing

- Perform 3 × 12–15 repetitions. Lower for about 2–3 seconds, change direction without bouncing and lift in 1–2 seconds unless the plan sets another tempo.

- Brace before the effort. Exhale through the controlled lifting or shortening phase and inhale during the return without losing position.

Common mistakes and prevention

- Do not lift the hips, kick the weight or force a painful lockout. Reduce load or range.

Regression and progression

- Reduce the load and, if needed, shorten the pain-free range while keeping the same setup.

- Add repetitions within the target range first, then increase load only if every repetition keeps the same path and reserve.

Stop signals

- Stop for sharp or increasing pain, numbness, dizziness, chest pain, unusual shortness of breath or loss of control. Swap the exercise if a comfortable, controlled version is not available.