Muscle map Leg Press
Muscles worked in leg press
The leg press loads the quads and glutes without the balance demand of a squat. Foot position shifts the emphasis: higher for glutes and hamstrings, lower for quads.
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Leg Press: primary and secondary muscles
Primary muscles
- Quads: front of the thigh, which straightens the knee
- Glutes: gluteus maximus, the main hip extensor
Secondary muscles
- Hamstrings: back of the thigh, which extends the hip and bends the knee
- Adductors: inner thigh muscles that pull the legs together and help drive out of the hole
- Calves: gastrocnemius and soleus, which point the foot and absorb impact
Form cues & reel idea
Form cues
- Lower back stays on the pad
- Knees track over toes
- Don’t lock the knees hard at the top
Film it for Reels
Film from the side to show depth, and show foot placement in a close-up cut.
Try the muscle map stickerGeneral fitness information, not medical advice. If something hurts, stop and ask a qualified coach or physio.
Leg Press: FAQ
What muscles does the leg press work?
Leg Press mainly works the quads and glutes. The hamstrings, adductors and calves assist and stabilise.
How do I show the muscles worked in my leg press video?
In ZapZoop, add a Muscle Map sticker, tap the quads and glutes in one colour and the helpers in another, then place it on your clip. Film from the side to show depth, and show foot placement in a close-up cut.
Map your leg press on video
Highlight the muscles you trained and post it in up to 4K.