Deadlift

The deadlift exercise was outlined in the leg section as an exercise
for the muscles of the posterior thigh. However, as there are a
couple of important differences of accentuation between the deadlift
movement application for the hamstrings and the dead-lift
movement application for the lower back, the dead-lift will be reintroduced
with emphasis paid to the considerations for the lower
back.

The deadlift exercise represents the “granddaddy” movement of
lower back exercises. On the surface the movement appears to be a
simple one to perform. However, there are a number of crucial considerations
to take into account in order to provide for the proper
execution of this exercise. It is advised that the beginning weighttraining
enthusiast gain a thorough understanding of the rudiments
of correct movement methodology in order to provide for safe, efficient
utilization of this highly-beneficial, but potentially dangerous
exercise. It should be noted that this seemingly simple exercise (what
could be easier than bending down and picking up a bar and then
straightening up?) is responsible for many serious injuries.

Three Major Differences in Movement Application
Use the Floor As Opposed To a Raised Platform
The raised platform provides additional stretch as the ROM of
the movement application is increased. However, the benefit of addi-
tional stretching distance (increased ROM) is experienced in the
strings and does not provide additional growth and development benefit
for the lower back. However, the additional distance of the movement
application as provided for by the raised platform can induce great
stress upon the lower back. Raised platforms should be used if the trainee
experiences the problem of having the plates touch the floor before
the eccentric phase of the movement can be completed. Only a slightlyraised
platform should be used in order to provide a built-in bench mark
of how far the weight should be lowered. If a higher platform is used
the trainee should not extend all the way down to the floor as stretching
too far exerts tremendous pressure on the lower lumbar region which
could easily cause serious injury.

Apply Knee-Flexion
The dead-lift exercise for the lower back should be applied with a
bent-knee posture. The stiff-legged version of the dead-lift exercise is
applied when the hamstrings are being accentuated. If a stiff-legged approach
is taken with the lower back deadlift application two serious ramifications
may result:
- It forces a greater stretching of the thoracolumbar fascia which is not
flexible and could easily be injured.
- It creates a much poorer mechanical advantage for the lower
lumbar region which results in a
significant increase in the amount of torque that is directed to
the vertebrae in the lumbar region.

Neural-impulsing Directed to the Lower Back
The movement application is performed with strong neural-impulsing
being directed to the area of the lower back as opposed to being
directed to the hamstrings. Remember the concentration
should be directed to the desired area that will be worked in order to reduce injury risk and to enhance
growth and development potential.

Summary of Correct Exercise Execution
- Assume the correct preparatory posture by placing the feet at just slightly wider than shoulder
width distance.
- Utilizing hip and knee flexion bend over at the waist and grasp the barbell in a just-slightly- wider-
than-shoulder width pronated grip. You will want to make certain to have the bar placed close
to the shins. If the barbell is positioned too far in front of the body there is a risk of straining the
lower lumbar region during the initiation of the lift.
- Initiate the concentric contraction phase of the movement by slowly extending the upper torso
to a vertical position. You will want to make certain to maintain slight knee and hip flexion in
order to alleviate the risk of straining the lower back. As well you will want to make sure to keep
the hips low and the head high in order to provide for the most mechanically correct posture for
the lift.
- Complete the concentric contraction phase of the movement by extending to a vertical posture.
You will want to avoid extending past the vertical point as over-extending creates a jamming of
the facet-joints and could injure the highly-vulnerable disks in the lower lumbar region. Remember
to avoid any vigorous thrusting of the bar and to draw the weight up the front of the thighs.
- Maintaining hip and knee flexion slowly begin the eccentric contraction phase of the lift. You
will want to keep the head up in order to maintain a flat and rigid posture of the back. Dropping
the head will encourage a resulting rounding of the back posture which could create stress upon
the lower lumbar region.
- Slowly complete the eccentric contraction phase of the lift by extending downward and pausing
at the completion of the descent before initiating the concentric contraction.

Keys to the Lift
- Utilize sensible weight selection as the tendency with this exercise is to use too much weight.
- Utilize smooth, highly-controlled movement applications. No herky-jerky movements with this
one.
- Keep the head up and. the hips down in effort to maintain the desirable flat, rigid posture of the
back.
- Place the barbell close to the shins and draw the weight up the front of the thighs.
- Do not hyperextend at the completion of the concentric contraction phase of the movement.
- Slowly lower the weight utilizing strong neural-impulsing throughout the eccentric contraction
phase of the movement.
- Remember to maintain slight knee and hip flexion in order to alleviate potential strain on the
lower back.
- Direct strong neural-impulsing into the lower back and not into the hamstrings on this particular
movement application.

Here are  a couple of videos that will help you with form.  The next series will have better sound so turn your speakers up.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9T5CYF6r0s

www.youtube.com/watch?v=YxtgV2e47gQ

Seated Toe Raises

A most often overlooked movement
for the development of the calves is the
toe raise action. Almost all calf-raise exercising
involves a heel raising action. In
order to provide accentuation upon the
anterior portion of the calves it is important
to include a toe raise movement in the
calves-training portfolio.

Movement Analysis
It is important to utilize slow speed of
contraction and full ROM movement applications
with this exercise as the tendency
with this movement is to perform the
action with a fast abbreviated action. Fast
herky-jerky movements do not provide the
anterior portion of the lower legs the same
opportunity for growth and development
(as was provided for the posterior lower
legs) if proper attention is not paid to the
performance of the exercise.

Summary of Correct Exercise
Execution
- Assume the correct preparatory posture
for the movement by sitting on provided seat
and placing the thighs under the pads.
- You will want to make certain that the pad is adjusted properly so as to allow for a parallel- withthe-
floor position of the thighs.
- You will want to make certain to utilize a straight-back posture with the head held erect in order
to establish proper positioning of the body in effort to provide for a full ROM movement application.
Light resistance should be used in manner of further encouraging full ROM movement
applications.
- Initiate the exercise application by first extending the toes downward (eccentric contraction
phase) and then raising the toes upward with a slow, strong muscular contraction. Be careful to
avoid the natural tendency to provide a “bouncing” action of the foot at the conclusion of the
eccentric contraction phase of the movement. Be sure to pause at the top of the lift for maximum
accentuation of the anterior lower legs and pause for one count.
- Initiate the eccentric contraction phase of the movement by slowly lowering the toes downward
to the fully-extended position

Keys to the Lift
- Utilize light resistance in effort to encourage proper movement applications.
- Use slow speed-of-contraction and full ROM movement applications.
- Be cautious not to apply a bouncing action of the ankle-joint at the conclusion of the eccentric
contraction phase of thee movement.

The commonly called seated calf raise is more poignantly depicted by the label of seated heel
raise. This is because of the fact that the stipulation of the heel raising can be distinguished from the
seated calf (toe) raise exercise. In both cases the movement is executed in manner of working the
calves. However, the seated heel raise movement works the posterior region of the calves while the
seated toe raise application activates the anterior region of the calves.

The seated (heel) raise movement would ideally be performed on a seated calf raise machine. If
your gym does not provide one, you can
apply a free-weight application by placing
a barbell across your knees. (You may
want to place a towel across the knees to
cushion the weight of the bar). Place a
secure block under your foot so that the
block won’t flip up. In the seated calf raise
position the pressure would not be as
magnified as in the standing calf raise exercise
but even the minutest stresses
should be avoided whenever possible.

The seated calf raise exercise accentuates
the soleus muscle in the posterior
region of the calves and also provides activation
of the anterior portion of the
calves. This is due to the 90° angle that is
formed between the upper and lower legs.
In addition, the seated heel raise incorporates
the action of the lateral portion of
the calves which further accentuates the
definition and separation of the highlyvisible
outside portion of the calves.

Avoiding the “Bounce-Effect”
You will really be challenged to avert
the natural tendency to bounce the resistance
up and down in this movement. You
will want to concentrate on slow controlled
movement applications in order to
get the most out of the exercise. Remember
to place the balls of the feet on the
block and not just the toes. The seated calf
raise exercise requires a great deal of concentration
to avoid using momentum and
to avoid having gravity overpower the eccentric
contraction phase of the movement.
The biggest mistake trainees make when performing the seated calf raise movement is to
bounce into the concentric contraction phase of the movement. It takes great concentration to apply
slow speed-of-contraction movement applications in this exercise. It is much more advisable to work
with less weight and apply correct technique.

Considerations for Various Feet Placements
In order to provide for well-rounded development of this difficult to hit muscle region, various
foot placements can be utilized to accentuate the medial .or lateral portion of the muscle. Remember,
pointing the toes-inward emphasizes the lateral portion while toes-outward accentuates the medial
portion. Once again it should be stressed that it is essential to drive off the inside balls of the feet in
order to accentuate the inner region of the soleus. It is very easy to fall into the habit of pressing off
the last three toes which accentuates the lateral portion of the calves but which virtually eliminates
the involvement of the medial portion. As well, executing the movement with the force exerted by
the toes encourages exaggerated bouncing action of the movement application.

Summary of Correct Exercise Execution
- Place yourself upon the seat with the resistance pad aligned across the lower part of the frontal
thigh area. You will want to avoid having the pad aligned so that it barely covers the knees as
there is high risk that the pad will slip off during the movement application.
- Assume the proper seated posture with the head erect and the back held in a rigid vertical position.
This will maximize the ROM.
- Lift the lever arm off in order to prepare the machine for clearance for the movement application.
- Prepare for the concentric contraction phase of the movement by slowly lowering the weight to
the fully-extended eccentric contraction position.
- Begin the concentric contraction phase of the movement by slowly raising up on to the balls of
the feet. Do not lean over the resistance pad as this alters the angle of execution. Maintain the
erect body position in order to allow for maximum ROM movement applications.
- Contract top the top of the lift and hold for two seconds before beginning the eccentric contraction
phase of the movement.
- Slowly lower the heels until they reach the maximum eccentric contraction distance and pause at
the bottom of the lift before attempting another concentric contraction (Be cautious here to
avoid bouncing into the next concentric contraction).

Keys to the Lift
- Maintain proper posture to allow for maximum accentuation of the desired area of the calves.
- Drive off the inside balls of the feet in order to gain maximum contraction intensity
- Concentrate on applying full range-of-motion movement applications.
- You will need to concentrate on not bouncing at the completion of the eccentric contraction
phase of the movement as is the general tendency with this exercise.
- Remember to stretch for maximum ROM at the conclusion of the eccentric contraction phase.

We may very well have saved the best for last with regards to the leg exercise inventory with the
addition of the leg press movements. The leg press exercise provides a marvelous opportunity for the
safe and efficient power training for the legs. The leg press movement allows for maximum loading
while significantly reducing the potential injury-risk associated with the squat movements. The major
benefit associated with the leg press exercise inventory is that the trainee does not have to support
maximum loading while in the standing position which presents high risk of both internal and external
injury potential.

Reduced Injury-Risk
The risk of external injury is significantly reduced in the 45° angle leg press and inverted (vertical),
leg press exercises, and is limited in the horizontal leg press movement. (I have never heard of
anyone being injured in the performance of the horizontal leg press exercise. It should be stressed
however that the rudiments of proper exercise execution need to be adhered to in order to provide
for the safe utilization of this effective exercise). The burden of supporting the load is assumed by
the legs with the back in a stabilized position in the 45° angle, and inverted leg press applications.
The lying leg press movement provides for the movement to be completed without the necessity of
working directly against gravity. (While the plate stack is driven upward, the movement application is
in the horizontal plane and thus is not considered as directly opposing gravity. where movement of
the resistance does not have to be taken directly).

Proper Execution Required
While the leg press movement is much safer than the squat movement, injuries are still a factor
to be considered. Remember, the press is considered a power movement and as such, heavy resistance
is generally employed. Whenever heavy weight is being used, the risk of injury cannot be overlooked.
While the correct application of the leg press movements can significantly reduce injury risk,
incorrect execution can induce serious injury. The beginning weight-training student would be welladvised
to learn the rudiments of correct movement methodology in order to provide for the safe,
efficient utilization of the highly-beneficial leg press exercise.

Essentially, there are three basic movement applications within the leg press exercise inventory.
Each of the exercise applications carries a global methodology while at the same time demanding
specific consideration. We shall outline the basic requirements associated with the leg press movement
and then provide essential movement components specific to each variation.

The first aspect to be considered when determining the proper movement methodology of the
leg press exercise is the comparison of exercise execution between the squat and the leg press
movement action. With the squat movement, the platform (floor) remains stabilized while the body
is moved through space. With the leg press exercise the body (upper portion) remains stabilized
while the feet drive the platform through space.

Horizontal Leg Press
We shall begin with the lying leg press as this exercise most closely resembles the squat exercise.
The greatest benefit attributed to the lying leg press is that the movement can be applied in the desired
90° angle. You will recall that the importance of applying the movement as close to 90° as possible
was seen as a vital consideration when evaluating the execution of the squatting movement.
Achieving a 90° angle of execution in the squat while possible is certainly difficult. The lying leg press
movement allows for the difficult-to-achieve 90° angle as the movement is applied in a horizontal
plane with the body positioned in the horizontal position.

Considerations for Foot Placements
The feet should be placed at shoulder-width or slightly-wider-than-shoulder width distance with
the toes pointed outward at about a 45° angle in providing for the basic anatomical position (in the
horizontal). Shoulder-width and slightly-wider-than-shoulder-width foot placements allows for full
range-of-motion applications. Wider foot placements reduce the range-of-motion of the movement
application. The negative aspect of narrow foot placements is that they exert greater pressure on the
lower spine which often leads to injury.

Proper Location Essential
You will want to make certain that
the feet are placed at the proper height
in effort to provide the most advantageous
position of the body to effectively
apply accentuation of the powerful
muscles that comprise the hip area.
Several foot positions are possible with
the lying leg press movement: a heelsout
position can be applied to accentuate
the outside portion of the thighs,
a straight ahead application is often
used to hit the middle of the thighs and
a heels-in position provides emphasis to
the inner region of the thighs.

90° Angle Possible
The lying leg press affords the trainee
with an opportunity to apply a 90°
angle-of- application and as such the
proper placement of the feet allows for
the accentuation of the desired muscular
areas. The lying leg press movement
allows for the feet to be positioned further
away from the body than in the
squatting movement. The advantage of
having the feet placed away from the body (in this case high up on the foot platform) is that it allows
for the movement emphasis to be applied via actions of hip-joint flexion and extension. The exertion
of the hip-joint provides for the accentuation of the powerful hamstring and gluteal muscle groups.
If the feet are placed too low on the platform the emphasis of the movement will be applied via
knee-joint flexion and extension. The emphasis of the movement will now be applied almost entirely
by the quadriceps.

Avoidance of Toe-Emphasis
An additional consideration is that higher foot placements facilitate the emphasis of the movement
to be applied with the rear portion of the feet while lower foot placements encourage the trainee
to apply pressure with the toes. Significantly, toe applications do little to activate the powerful
muscles of the region of the hips and instead, place heavy emphasis on the knee-joint which increases
the risk of injury and severely curbs the effectiveness of the exercise.

While it appears to be easier to move heavier loads with the toes-application, it should be noted
that when the exertion is applied with the toes, the resistance is being supported by the vulnerable
knee-joint and little effort is being applied by the powerful muscles of the hip-joint. This establishes a
high-injury risk factor and greatly reduces the effectiveness of the exercise.

Summary of Correct Exercise Execution
- Assume a horizontal position on the bed with the feet placed in the desired shoulder-width or,
slightly-wider-than-shoulder-width distance and the feet positioned at a 45° angle away from the
body. Place the shoulders snugly into the shoulder harness with the head in contact with the bed.
- Slowly initiate the eccentric contraction phase of the movement by utilizing knee and hip flexion.
Remember to draw the legs up with the knee and thighs aligned in order to accentuate the muscles
of the thighs. There is a tendency to draw the legs up with the knees held out to the sides.
The knees-out position accentuates the exertion of the movement to be felt in the knee joint.
Particularly vulnerable with this action is the medial cruciate ligament which can easily become
stretched due to the extreme pressure that is being applied to the inner portion of the knees.
Keeping the entire surface of the soles of the feet will encourage the desired knee-thigh alignment.
- Draw the legs up through the entire ROM of the hips while making certain to keep the upper
torso (and this includes the area of the lower back) throughout the movement application. There
is a tendency to raise up off the bed with the lower back at the completion of the eccentric contraction
in effort to apply leverage .into the subsequent concentric contraction phase of the
movement. Lifting the hips off the bed induces a rounding of the spine action which exposes the
lower back to injury-risk due to the fact that the force vector is now directly in line with the highly-
vulnerable lower lumbar region. Pause for one or two counts before initiating the concentric
contraction phase of the movement.
- Initiate the concentric contraction phase by driving slowly with the rear portion of the feet. Remember
to keep the entire soles of the feet in contact with the foot platform. Maintaining contact
with the entire region of the soles of the feet serves two purposes.

- It allows for the accentuation of the exertion to be applied with the rear portion of the foot
which a) provides for the accentuation of the powerful muscles of the hips and b) alleviates the
risk of injury to the knees.
- By keeping the toes in contact with the platform, the dangerous practice of rocking back onto
the extremities of the heels during the force phase of the movement is eliminated. Rocking back
onto the heels induces a hyperextension of the knee-joint which could create serious injury to the
patella ligament.

- Concentrate fully on driving with the powerful muscles of the hips and thighs while providing
for slow deliberate movement applications. You will want to avoid the tendency of raising the
hips during the concentric contraction. Raising the hips causes an arching of the back posture
which places the trainee at risk of suffering from a jamming of the facet joints in the lower lumbar
region.
- Remember to avoid lifting the head off the bed during the concentric contraction as this will
encourage a rounding of the back posture which despite the fact that the movement is not performed
directly against gravity and the resistance is not being supported by the spinal column,
could lead to injury risk. The rounded back posture allows the force vector to attack the exposed
lower lumbar region.
- Avoid “snapping-out” at the conclusion of the concentric contraction phase of the movement. A
snapping action in the knee causes a hyperextension effect which can easily cause serious injury
to the ligaments and tendons in the knee-joint. There is tendency to rise up with the hips during
the completion of the set. Raising the hips during the concentric contraction causes an arching of
the back posture which exposes the lower lumbar region to injury.

Keys to the Lift
- Maintain contact with the bed with the entire back (as well as the head) throughout the entire
movement application. Do not lift the spine off the bed at the completion of the eccentric contraction
phase and remember to avoid raising the hips during the concentric contraction phase of
the movement.
- Maintain contact with the entire soles of the feet and drive off the rear portion of the foot. You
will want to remember to avoid the tendency of rocking back onto the extremities of the heels
during the completion of the concentric contraction phase of the movement.
- Avoid the tendency of “snapping-out” at the conclusion of the concentric contraction phase.

45-degree Leg Press
The most prevalently utilized leg press movement, virtually every gym is equipped with a 45° angle
leg sled, the 45° angle leg press is considered less effective than the lying leg press due to the fact
that the 45° angle application focuses almost exclusively upon the quadriceps muscles while providing
only very slight attention to the hamstrings and only slightly more emphasis on the gluteals. The
fundamental benefit of the 45° angle leg press is that due to the fact that the back is in a stabilized
position and the weight does Dot have to be supported in a standing position; considerably more
weight can be applied to the movement. The added loading affords the opportunity for enhanced
growth and development of the quadriceps. However, the effects upon the hamstrings and the gluteals
is far less than if a lying leg press movement application was executed with far less weight.

However, for those who are against squatting or for those athletes who have suffered injuries,
the 45° angle leg press allows for potentially safer, (if somewhat less effective) power training for the
muscles that comprise the region of the hip-joint.

Injury Risk
While the 45° angle leg press is considered safer than the squat exercise (due to the stabilized
posture of the back and the removal of the requirement to support the weight on the shoulder while
performing the movement against gravity), there are number of injury risks associated with the performance
of this exercise. Due to the fact that heavy resistance is employed in this movement and
because of the exertion placed upon the knees and the lower back, as a result of the angle-of
application, proper exercise
execution is required to ensure
the safe, effective utilization of
this popular leg movement.

Danger of Hyperextension
of the Knee Joint
However, one major concern
associated with applying
pressure with the rear portion
of the feet is that there is a
tendency to rock back with the
heels in an exaggerated posture
that sees the toes raised off the
platform. Because of the angle
of the movement application, if
there is an exaggerated rocking
back on the heels there is experienced
a hyperextension of the
knee-joint which can lead to
serious injury.

As well, many trainees fall
into the habit of pushing down
on their thighs or even their
knees during the concentric
contraction of the movement
(not recommended as it detracts
from proper form and
the opportunity for maximum
fiber recruitment potential in the thighs). If there is an exaggerated rocking back on the heels action
and the trainee applies additional pressure by forcing the knees downward, the hyperextension of the
knee-joint is much more severe.

Foot Position
The position of the feet is an important consideration when approaching the execution of this
exercise.

Heel Pressure
The feet should be placed at the sufficient height so as to allow for a full or flat foot placement
of the feet upon the platform. The height should be such so as to allow for the entire region of the
soles of the feet to remain in contact throughout the movement application which allows for the
pressure to be exerted with the heels of the feet which serves two important functions.

- It allows for the emphasis of the movement to be applied through the actions of hip-joint flexion
and extension which activates the upper hamstrings and gluteals providing for enhanced growth
and development potential. (Note: the quadriceps are still remain highly-activated with the heelpressure
movement application but the benefit of incorporating the hamstring and gluteal muscle
groups can be realized). Please note as well: The involvement of the calf muscles is virtually eliminated
(the calves only provide a stabilizing effect), due to the fact that the heels-in-contact-withthe-
platform position eliminates the actions of plantar and dorsi flexion of the ankle-joint which
(as mentioned), activates the calves.
- The pressure upon the knee-joint is significantly reduced with the pressure being exerted by the
heels which lowers the risk of injury.

Low vs. High
A low foot placement encourages the emphasis of the movement to be applied with the toes
which results in the activation of the quadriceps. However, the desired emphasis upon powerful
hamstring and gluteals muscle group, which is activated using a high foot placement, is lost.

Close vs. Wide
The second area of consideration regarding foot position is the displacement of the feet. Several
applications are possible with the 45° angle leg press exercise. The general approach would be to apply
sufficient distance so as to allow for a full range-of-motion of the movement application. A
shoulder-width distance – with the feet placed in a slightly outward position- would be applied in order
to allow for the natural full range-of-motion execution of the movement. If the feet are placed
too far apart, a sacrifice must be made in the range-of-motion of the applied movement.

Conversely, if the feet are placed too close together, there will be an abbreviated eccentric contraction
application because the knees will be blocked by the chest. There will be a resultant spreading
of the knees to allow for a completed ROM of the eccentric contraction.

In addition, if the feet are placed in an exaggerated (closed) “stance” with feet touching, there is
natural tendency to raise the inside of the feet and to apply the pressure with the outside portion of
the feet. There is also a strong tendency to rise up onto the toes when the feet are placed too close
together which exerts pressure upon the knees as well as the lower back.

Involvement of the Calf Muscles

Danger of “Springing”
Another point is that because of the 45° angle of the movement application, the exertion of the
pressure being applied by the toes invokes the actions of dorsi flexion and plantar flexion of the ankle
joint which activates the calf muscles. The calves work in combination with the quadriceps which
further reduces the involvement of hamstrings and glutes. In addition, the calves/quadriceps combination
results in an applied springing action during the eccentric/concentric transitory phase of the
movement application. .Springing- exerts great pressure upon the knee-joint which can easily lead to
injury to the patella ligament.

Dangers of Human or Machine Error

Dangers of Poorly-Fitting Machines
One note of caution should be taken even before you take your position upon the leg press machine.
Make certain that the weight handle is securely in place and safely supported by the safety pins.
Frequently, machines are constructed with pins that do not amply support the cradle. These pins can
come loose on one side or the other either during the loading of the machine or through use by other
trainees. The machine may appear to be safely supporting the weights you have put on but the cradle
may be at the very edge of slipping off the pins. One side of the cradle could be completely off the
support pin (on that side} with the result being that should you happen to nudge the other support
out of place during your entry into the seat, the weight cradle could come crashing down upon your
leg.

Avoid Stepping Under the Cradle
Always enter the machine from the back of the seat as opposed to the side. This way you can
avoid the necessity of the potentially dangerous practice of stepping in under the cradle with one leg
to provide balance for the entry into the seat. You can enter by stepping on the seat and then “scrunching”
down into place. (You will want to wear clean shoes for this maneuver or the gym owner will
complain). I use this approach regardless of whether I am familiar with the apparatus or not. No
matter how safe the machine appears to be (or even has proven itself to be), you cannot afford to
take any chances as one mistake could be disastrous. As well, grasp onto the grip the provided handles
on the side of the machine and not the release handles for the weight cradle. If you grab the
weight-cradle handles they can easily be turned out releasing the load down on yourself.
Once safely in position, check and see if there are any safety pins that can be placed on the sled
columns that would provide a margin of safety should anything go wrong with the original support
pins.

Twist Free of Machine
When leaving the machine always twist the body around and step onto the floor outside of the
machine as opposed to standing up and stepping out of the machine leaving one foot under the
weight-cradle. Once again, should anything disturb the weight-cradle, it can come crashing down
onto your leg. When you consider the amount of weight that you will be working with on the leg
press exercise, the thought of the weight-cradle slamming into your leg should persuade you to exercise
extreme caution when working with the 45° angle leg press machine. To be honest, I have not
seen a cradle come crashing down on anyone but I have experienced a number of precarious situations
that definitely raised my caution level.

Summary of Correct Exercise Execution
- Assume the correct preparatory posture by positioning yourself in the seat with the back in a
rigid and flat posture and secured firmly against the back rest. (Remember to keep the feet out
from under the weight cradle at this point).
- Place the feet on the weight-cradle platform with a shoulder width displacement with the toes
pointed slightly outward. Raise the feet to sufficient height so as to provide for the exertion of
the movement to be applied through the rear portion of the feet. This will allow for the incorporation
of the hamstring and gluteal muscles.
- Apply sufficient pressure upon the platform so as to be able to quickly adjust to the load should
anything go askew with the handles and support pins of the weight-cradle. Make certain to set up
the auxiliary safety pins. Slowly turn the handles of the weight-cradle to allow clearance for the
movement.
- Making certain to keep the head up and the chest out, and with the back held in a rigid, and flat
posture and pressed against the back rest begin the concentric contraction phase of the movement
by slowly using knee and hip extension to drive the weight upward.
- Drive off the rear portion of the feet while utilizing strong neural-impulsing in the powerful
muscles that comprise the hip to alleviate the pressure on the knee-joint and to get the most out
of the movement.
- There is a tendency to rise off the seat during the ascent so you will want to concentrate on
keeping the lower back pinned against the back rest throughout the movement.
- Complete the concentric contraction phase of the movement by slowly extending to the “finish
position”. Be cautious not to rock back onto the heels at the conclusion of the movement. You
will also need to concentrate on avoiding the tendency to “snap-out” at the end of the lift in order
to avoid straining the knees. Pause at the conclusion of the lift for two counts before lowering
the weight. Please note: many experts in the field of weight-resistance training advocate that
the movement should be halted just short of the fully-extended position. However it is felt here
that full-extension applications are safe providing there is no snapping-out of the knees at the
conclusion of the lift. As well, by providing a fully-extended application there is enhanced opportunity
to activate the gluteals and the upper hamstring/gluteal tie- in which accentuates the effectiveness
of the exercise without any necessary risk of injury.
- Begin the eccentric contraction phase of the movement by slowly extending the hips and the
knees. You will want to direct strong concentration into maintaining the impulsing into the muscles
of the gluteal and hamstring region in order to avoid the tendency of allowing for gravity to
take over the lift and forcing the knees to absorb the burden of supporting the load.
- Concentrate on maintaining a flat position of the feet as there is a strong tendency to lift the
heels during the eccentric contraction phase of the movement in effort to alleviate the pressure
felt in the gluteal region and redirect it to the area of the knees. Remember, there is a natural
tendency to incorporate the calf muscles into the action by utilizing dorsi flexion in the eccentric
contraction phase. Keeping the flat -feet position will allow you to avoid this common pitfall.
- Make sure not to bounce at the completion of the eccentric contraction phase of the movement
in effort to apply momentum into the subsequent concentric contraction. Bouncing discourages
muscular contraction and accentuates the pressure upon the knees. Bouncing also encourages a
hip-thrusting action during the initiation of the concentric contraction which exposes the lower
lumbar region to potential injury.

Keys to the Lift
- Maintain full contact with the feet on the foot platform and drive off the region of the heels during
the concentric contraction of the movement. (Remember to avoid a rocking-back-on-theheels
action at the completion of the lift which forces a hyperextension of the knees).
- Avoid the tendency to utilize a hip-thrusting action at the initiation of the concentric contraction
by staying down in the seat with the lower back pressed against the back rest.
- Avoid “snapping-out” at the completion of the concentric contraction phase of the movement.
- Maintain a flat-position of the feet during the completion of the eccentric contraction phase of
the movement in order to avoid the natural tendency of raising up onto the toes.
- Avoid bouncing at the conclusion of the descent in order to alleviate strain on the knees and the
lower back.

The hack squat exercise provides an opportunity to implement a different squat application into
the student’s leg program. The back squat is often categorized-as a power movement when in reality
it should definitely not be considered as such. The major benefit attributed to the back squat exercise
is that it allows for a potentially safer squatting variation. The hack squat exercise is performed on a
hack squat machine which features a reclined weight-track, shoulder harness, and a back rest which
provide for enhanced balance and a reduced angle-of-exertion (with reference to the considerations
associated with the line-of-gravity) which allows for a facilitated movement application.

The back squat exercise is of particular value to those athletes who have suffered shoulder injuries
and cannot support or balance the bar across the shoulders as required in the conventional squat
movement application. While the back squat is generally regarded as presenting less of a risk than the
regular squat, it carries significant risks of its own.

Movement Analysis
What should be noted is that the hack squat exercise places specific demands upon the trainee
and should not automatically associated with the conventional squat. While there are some similarities
of exercise execution, there are also a number of distinct differences that require specific movement
methodology on the part of the trainee. Remember, weight-resistance training is highly-specific
and as such, each exercise places specific demands of proper exercise execution upon the trainee.
The hack squat exercise places a different emphasis upon the muscles that surround the hip-joint
and knee-joint. Of particular significance is the fact that the unique angle of the foot bed places a
unique emphasis upon the ligaments and tendons of the knee. Particularly vulnerable are the patella
ligament and the quadriceps tendon which attaches to the patella bone on the front of the knee.

Resistance Selection
It should be noted that just because a trainee might be strong in the conventional squat, it should
not be taken for granted that heavy poundage can be applied to the hack squat movement. The earnest
weight-training student would want to take the time to build the strength up in the specific fibers
called upon in the hack squat exercise by escalading the resistance gradually before attempting heavy
loads.

Proper Foot Placement

Dangers of Feet Too Close
The correct stance would see the feet placed
upon the platform in a slightly forward position and
spaced at slightly wider-than-shoulder-width distance
with the toes pointed in a slightly outward
position. If the feet are positioned to close to the
body, there will be tremendous pressure exerted
upon the knees during the eccentric contraction
phase of the movement. Also, with the feet positioned
too close to the body, there is tendency to
come off the back rest and use a hip-thrust action
during the initiation of the concentric contraction
phase of the movement. Coming off the back support
and employing a hip-thrust action induces the
force vector to hit directly upon the lower lumbar
region.

Dangers of Feet Too Far Apart
Conversely, if the feet are positioned too far in
front of the body, there is a tendency to apply an
exaggerated hip-thrusting action in order to maintain
contact with the back rest. The exaggerated hipthrust
action can force the trainee up onto the toes,
which forces the trainee to assume an arched-back
position. Arching the back results jams the facet
joints in the lower lumbar region. Complicating matters
is the fact that the force vectors now directly
attack the vulnerable spinal region.

In addition, if the feet are positioned too far in
from of the body there is natural tendency to lower
the head during the eccentric contraction phase of
the movement due to the angle formed between the
upper torso and the legs. A dropping of the head
action encourages a rounding of the back response
which further exposes the lower lumber region to
injury.

Range of Motion
A slightly-wider-than-shoulder-width foot
placement (with the feet pointed slightly outward) is
recommended because this posture allows for a facilitated full range-of-motion movement application.
As well, if the feet are spaced too close together there is greater felt in the knee. Of particular
concern is the lateral cruciate ligament of the knee. As well, close feet placements encourage hipthrusting
and a following rising up onto the toes action which, as outlined, is strongly advised against.
Another crucial point needs to be made: the angle of the foot platform should be slight as a correlation
between the severity of the angle and the amount of pressure that is exerted upon the knees during
the movement application exists.

Summary of Correct Exercise Execution
- Assume the proper preparatory posture by placing the feet upon the angled platform in a
slightly-wider than shoulder width stance. The feet should not be placed too far in front of the
body or too close to the body. The correct distance is determined top be that placement which
does not:

- Exert undue stress upon the knees;
- Force the body away from the back-rest;
- Induce the trainee to rise up onto the toes.

- Assume the proper preparatory posture by aligning the body beneath the shoulder harness while
establishing a rigid and flat -back posture with the head up and the chest out. You will want to
make certain that the entire length of the back (not just the upper portion), is in touch with the
back rest.
- Begin the eccentric contraction phase of the movement by utilizing hip and knee-joint flexion
and slowly lower the weight to the bottom of the natural range-of -motion of the hip flexion action.
The natural ROM would be one that allows for a facilitated movement application that encourages
the activation of the muscles of the gluteals, upper hamstring region, and the quadriceps.
It is important to produce high-activation of the muscles in order to reduce the exertion
upon the knee-joint.
- You will need to concentrate fully on applying strong neural impulsing into the gluteal region as
well as the area of the posterior upper thighs in order to avert the natural tendency to allow for
gravity to take over control of the movement in the eccentric phase which results in a bouncing
action at the conclusion of the descent. Bouncing at the completion of the eccentric phase exerts
tremendous pressure upon the knees which can easily cause injury to the quadriceps tendon and
the patella ligament.
- In order to establish the correct movement application in the concentric phase, it is imperative
that the trainee maintain contact with the platform with the entire foot (not just. the toes), and
drive off the rear portion of the feet. If the heels are raised up, the exertion will be applied with
the toes, which places added pressure upon the ligaments of the knee.
Please note, however, that you should not over emphasize the pressing action of the rear portion
of the feet by raising the toes off the platform (dorsi flexion). If the toes are raised off the platform
it encourages a hyperextension of the knee-joint which creates high injury-risk to the patella
ligament as well as the quadriceps tendon.
- Remember to avert the natural tendency to apply a hip-thrusting action into the initiation of the
concentric contraction phase of the movement by driving off the heels and by maintaining contact
with the back rest with the entire back. Note: some back rests do not extend down to the
full length of the back. In such a case, the trainee will have to be extra cautious to maintain the
correct flat -back posture and to keep as much of the back jammed against the back rest as possible
in order to encourage a stabilized posture of the highly-vulnerable lower lumbar region.
- Raise the weight slowly through the concentric contraction phase of the movement by utilizing
well-controlled knee and hip-joint flexion. You will want to avoid snapping-out at the completion
of the lift as this action will encourage a hyperextension action of the knee-joint. Snappingout
also encourages a resulting hip-thrust action which creates an injury risk to the lower lumbar
region.

Keys to the Lift
- The first step to the safe, effective utilization of the back sq~ exercise is to recognize from the
outset that the back squat exercise is not a power movement per se. Heavy poundage are not required-
and in fact are discouraged- in this exercise.
- Pay strict attention to applying the correct stance, body posture, and exercise execution throughout
the performance of the exercise or injuries are a virtual certainty.
- Utilize slow speed-of-contraction movement applications
- Press off the heels of the feet and not the toes.
- Keep the back Bat and rigid, and maintain contact with the back support throughout the movement
application.
- Keep the bead up and the hips down in effort to avoid the natural tendency of dropping the
head during the descent.
- Utilize strong neural-impulsing in effort to ensure maximum activation of the involved muscles
in order to reduce the exertion upon the knee-joint.
- Avoid bouncing at the conclusion of the eccentric contraction phase of the movement.

Introduction
Another manner in which to work the gluteal muscle group is to utilize another variation of the
thigh (hip-joint) cable exercise in this movement the emphasis of the movement action is applied
toward the body as opposed to away from the body as evidence in the thigh (hip-joint abduction exercise.

Movement Analysis
In this movement application the emphasis is exerted by bringing the leg across the front of the
body. The same basic rudiments of the hip-joint abduction exercise are put into effect here. There is
a strong tendency to allow knee-joint flexion to occur in the action leg as the cable is brought across
the body so you will have to exert strong concentration to maintain the desired locked-knee position
of the leg. Once again there is a strong tendency to rock the body to and fro in effort to incorporate
momentum into the movement application.

In this exercise the trainee would be advised to concentrate on leading the movement with the
rear portion of the foot rather than the front portion. The rear portion accentuation allows for additional
emphasis to be exerted upon the inner portion of the thighs which allows for the strong activation
of the gluteus medius.

The movement can be applied on a 45° angle application or a 90° angle (straight-out away from
the body) application. In order to provide the greatest squeezing of the gluteus medius the 90° angle
application would be considered the more desirable approach. The trainee would be required to concentrate
fully in order to gain the maximum ROM in the movement application as the tendency is to
abort the concentric contraction phase of the movement short of the fully-extended position. By
extending the leg to the fullest extent there is an opportunity to accentuate the gluteus maximus in
the difficult -to-reach higher inside portion. Once again it should be stressed that it is imperative to
maintain a stiff- legged position of the support leg otherwise the action leg will be induced to undergo
knee-joint flexion which would greatly reduce the effectiveness of the exercise.

Slow, speed-of-contraction applications should
be used during the execution of the exercise in order
to gain the most out of the movement. You should
pause at the completion of the concentric contraction
phase of the movement for a two-count and
then slowly return the weight to the starting position.
You will need to concentrate fully on resisting
the forces of gravity from taking over control of the
lift during the eccentric contraction phase of the
movement.

Added Medial Rotation
The rudiments of the cable (hip-joint) adduction
exercise are followed only with the inclusion of the
additional action of medial rotation of the thigh.
That is the thigh is turned in as the concentric contraction
phase of the movement is being completed
which allows for greater squeezing of the gluteals as
the cable is drawn across the body. The gluteus minimus
and the gluteus medius muscles are accentuated
during this movement.

You will want to remember to initiate the medial
rotation of thigh with the hip-joint rather than
attempting to medially rotate the lower leg at the
knee-joint. Activation of the knee- joint could produce
ligament and tendon damage to the knees particularly
vulnerable would be the interior cruciate
ligament during the concentric contraction phase of
the movement and the exterior cruciate ligament
during the eccentric contraction phase of the
movement.

It is essential that you apply a slow deliberate
medial rotation of the thigh rather than to apply a
vigorous thrusting action of the leg. Remember to
pause for two counts at the completion of the concentric
contraction phase of the movement before
initiating the eccentric contraction phase of the
movement. Also you will need to concentrate fully
on maintaining the locked-knee position of the support
leg during the eccentric contraction phase of
the movement.

There are many variations of the movement ap-
plications for the cable hip-joint actions. You may want to experiment with several approaches in
order to gain the “feel” of each. As long as correct exercise execution is applied throughout the entire
movement application, you will be able to utilize this highly-effective portfolio of exercises for your
safe, efficient development of the muscles that comprise the area of the hips.

Summary of Correct Exercise Execution
- Assume the correct preparatory posture for the movement by standing on a raised platform with
the cable attached to the action leg which is held in a position that is just back of the parallel position
of the body.
- The body should be held in an erect position with no bending at the waist permitted.
- Slowly initiate the concentric contraction phase of the movement by drawing the cable inward
across the body. You will want to lead the action with the heel as this will discourage a bending
of the knee resultant which could place the knee-joint in jeopardy of strain.
- Complete the concentric contraction phase of the movement by drawing the leg across the body
evenly to the fully-extended (natural) position. You will want to focus on not allowing for a
bending action of the torso during the completion of the movement.
- You will want to pause for a full count before initiating the eccentric contraction phase of the
movement.
- Slowly begin the eccentric contraction phase of the movement by lowering the leg slowly downward
and back across the body.
- Complete the eccentric contraction phase of the movement by lowering the cable back to the
starting position. You will want to make certain to maintain the desired erect posture of the upper
torso during the movement application.

Keys to the Lift
- Utilize light resistance and establish and maintain the desired erect posture of the upper torso
throughout the entire execution of the exercise.
- Establish and maintain the desired stiff-legged position of the action leg during the entire performance
of the exercise.
- Utilize slow speed-of-contraction movement applications and avoid the natural urge to apply a
herky-jerky application to the movement.

The Lying Leg Curl exercise represents the most fundamental Hamstring movement and offers
opportunity to work the hamstrings with a variety of foot positions. The exercise can be potentially
harmful to the sometimes delicate hamstring muscle group as well as the lower back. Light resistance
should be utilized in effort to reduce the injury risks associated with the lying leg curl movement.

Considerations for Machine Selection
The lying leg curl exercise is performed on a lying leg curl machine. The machine may be either a
combination thigh extension / leg curl machine which as outlines earlier would feature a flat bed, or
a specific lying leg curl lying leg curl machine which could feature either a flat or angled bed. The flat
bed accentuates the upper area of the hamstring muscles as well as the gluteals due to the angle of
pull of the muscles during the movement application. The angled bed allows for greater accentuation
of the hamstrings throughout their range of motion due to the more advantageous angle of pull and
the relationship of the force vector and the gravitation forces experienced during the movement.

The angled bed provides a more natural movement application. Because the semtiendonosis and
the semimembraneosous cross both the knee and the
hip joints the movement application of the leg curl
forces the hips to rise off the flat bed. The resulting
raising up off the bed action exposes the lower back
to potential injury. As well, rising up off the bed reduces
the effectiveness of the exercise due to mechanical
disadvantage of the force vector and its relationship
with gravity.

The angled bed allows for a natural positioning of
the torso with the hips in a slightly raised and thus
natural position for the movement application. The
angled bed allows for contact between the torso and a
solid base of support. The movement application is
performed with the body in a more advantageous position
with respect to the relationship between the
force vector and the gravitational forces.

In addition, the flat bed encourages a lifting of
the head and a rising of the chest off the bed. This
flaw in posture creates an arcing in the back exposing
the lower lumbar region to injury risk. The angled bed
discourages the raising of the head and even if there is
experienced a rising of the chest off the bed, there is a
compensatory base-of-support provided at the hips as
well as a superior angle of application.

Considerations for Feet Displacement
One of the foremost considerations attributed to
proper exercise execution of the leg curl are those
related to feet position and displacement. The feet
should be spaced about 7-9 inches apart (depending
upon the width of the hips), in order to maximize the
effectiveness of the exercise and reduce injury risk. If
the feet are spaced too far apart there will be a severe
reduction in the natural application of the movement
throughout the entire ROM of the hamstring muscles.
In addition wide placements could invoke stress upon
the inner region of the knees.

Conversely, exaggerated close feet placements can
produce great stress upon the spine. In addition,
closed feet placements discourage the activation of
the inner portion of the posterior thigh and encourage
the accentuation of the powerful biceps femoris. The
result is that the hamstrings are not provided with an opportunity for full and even development.
In addition to the considerations given to the displacement of the feet are those areas of concern
related to the basic positions of the feet. The reference here is to:

Feet straight-ahead
This position encourages the incorporation of all three major hamstring muscles.

Heels-in position
This position accentuates the activation of the stronger outer or lateral position of the posterior
region of the thigh, notably the biceps femoris muscle. As outlined earlier the accentuation upon the
powerful biceps femoris muscle discourages a balanced development of the rear thigh.

Heels-out position
This position encourages the involvement of the inner portion of the posterior thigh. The difficulty
experienced with this position is that the weaker region is accentuated during the movement
while the powerful biceps femoris muscles are discouraged from becoming involved in the movement.
This would be an effective position to use if you have been abandoning the inner region and
over-emphasizing the outer portion of the posterior thigh.

It should be noted that the hamstrings as a group are not only called upon to provide support for
the knee joint during the actions of knee-joint flex on and knee-joint extension but to serve to provide
impetus for the action of external rotation of the leg. This action creates the twirling sensation
during the concentric and then eccentric contraction phases of the movement application.

As you go through your set, the heels are encouraged to come inside even more with the result
that increased emphasis is being placed upon the biceps femoris muscle. If you find that the heels are
being forced in too much during the completion of a set (you might want to ask a partner to watch
for the movement of the heel), then simply reduce the weight and focus on maintain the straightahead
position of the feet. It should be noted that when too much resistance is applied, there is a
natural response of the pelvic girdle to rise up from the bed in order to provide for a more optimal
angle-of-pull for the muscles to complete the lift.

This raising of the hips action (hip-joint flexion), is a natural mechanism of the body to alter the
upper attachment of the hamstring muscles so that they can now function more effectively as kneejoint
flexors. This is why the angled bed is more effective in providing for a more natural movement
application. Due to the natural tendency of the pelvic girdle to raise up off the bed during flat-bed
applications of the lying leg curl movement the trainee is exposed to high risk of injury to the lower
lumbar region due to the hyperextended posture of the back.

Dorsi Flexion vs. Plantar Flexion
Another major question that needs to be answered is that of which ankle-joint position should
the trainee assume when applying the leg curl movement? The considerations given to dorsi flexion
applications are that more resistance can be utilized and there is a greater feeling of comfort during
the movement application. The reason for the “appearance” of being able to work with greater loads
is that the calf muscles are greatly activated during the dorsi flexion application.

In addition, the activation of the hip joint also encourages the involvement of the gluteal muscles.
In fact it is very difficult to isolate the neural-impulsing into the hamstring muscles when the
dorsi flexion ankle-joint position is used. Conversely, when plantar flexion applications are utilized,
the emphasis in the hamstring area is more readily realized. This is due to the fact that the calf muscles
are relaxed and not activated nearly as much during the movement application.

As well, due to the plantar flexion position of the ankle-joint the gluteals are discouraged from
taking as much of an active role. It should be noted however, that the trainee must concentrate fully
on directing the neural impulses into the hamstring muscles in order to provide optimal growth and
development opportunity. While the trainee would experience a reduction in the amount of resistance
that would be used, he/she would be comforted by the fact that the burden would be taken up
by the hamstrings and not by the support muscle groups. With reference to the “comfort factor”
there is feeling of a pulling action experienced throughout the posterior region of the thighs and less
of a “squeezing” sensation felt in the calves which offers a feeling of discomfort at the outset. However,
with a little practice, the comfort experienced with the strong activation of the calves will be
realized with the control being exerted with the hamstrings. More significantly, the benefits that will
be realized will far outweigh the considerations for comfort. You may want to experiment with both
ankle-joint positions in order to gain a full appreciation of the sensations attributed to each position.

Considerations for Additional Injury Risks
You will want to be extremely careful not to allow for any “bouncing” to occur at the completion
of the eccentric contraction phase of the movement. The bouncing effect creates a hyperextension
effect upon the knee joint which could lead to serious injury to the popatella ligament located
in the front of the knee. As well, bouncing at the bottom of the eccentric contraction phase of
the movement encourages a resulting lifting of the upper torso off the bed. This is particularly evident
during applications on the flat bed. As the head is raised there is a resulting exaggerated arching
of the back which creates a jamming of the facet joints in the lower lumbar region.

This flaw in exercise execution is frequently illustrated when too much resistance is attempted. If
you cannot perform the movement without rising off the bench if effort to provide required momentum
then reduce the resistance before you injure yourself. It is difficult to avoid rising off the bed
when performing the leg curl exercise on a flat bed machine. This is due to the fact that the hip flexors
are attached to the lumbar vertebrae. As the movement is being performed, the hip flexors pull
with great force upon the femur bones of the upper legs driving them into the bed of the machine
which induces a natural lifting of the head which creates a great arching in the back. You may want to
place a cushion or a towel under the hips to provide a base of support in manner of alleviating the
pressure upon the lower lumbar region.

If during the completion of a set, you notice that you are beginning to rise off the bed, then
simply abort the set, reduce the resistance and pump out a high-rep set of perfectly performed repetitions.
Remember, the hamstrings are a comparatively-sensitive muscle group and as such extreme
care must be taken to avoid injuries to the muscles as well as their connective ligaments and tendons.

Particularly vulnerable is the tiny but prominent popliteal muscle located directly behind the
knee. The popliteal muscle is highly susceptible to injury and once injured (even slightly) it can plague
the trainee for a lifetime. Also at risk are the highly-visible, lateral and medial cruciate ligaments
which provide the support for the knee. These ligaments form the chord-like connections on the
outside and inside portions (respectively), of the posterior region of the knee joint.
In addition, the hamstring muscles themselves can become inflamed and stretched, pulled, or
even tom with poor technique and improper weight selection. Always utilize slow speed-ofcontraction
and highly-synchronized movement applications and use a high degree of common sense
when selecting your resistance on the hamstring curl exercise. You would be well-advised to strive
for the “feel” in the muscle on this exercise one rather than testing yourself on how much weight you
can move.

Summary of Correct Exercise Execution
- Assume a face-down prone position on the leg press machine with the head held to one side or
chin touching the bed. If a straight bed is used use the cheek-to-one-side posture to further discourage
any resulting arching of the back.
- Grip the sides of the bed and make certain the rollers are placed across the Achilles tendon of
the foot. You will want to avoid having the rollers come too far up the calves as this would reduce
the effectiveness of the exercise and could result in knee strain due to the inappropriate angle
of exertion associated with the rollers riding up too high. Conversely you will want to make
sure not to place the rollers too far down on the heels as they could slip off resulting in potential
dangerous alteration in pressure that could damage the knee joints.
- Slowly raise the weight upward by utilizing knee-joint flexion. You will want to be sure to raise
the weight through the muscle’s full ROM before pausing for two counts while squeezing the
weight. You will need to: concentrate fully in order to avoid blasting the weight up too quickly
and bouncing the rollers off the gluteals as rapid movement applications on the concentric contraction
phase of the movement could provoke injury to the knees.
- Once at the fully-extended concentric contraction phase of the movement following the twocount
pause, slowly return the weight to the starting position. You will need to avoid the general
pitfall of allowing the weight to return too quickly by utilizing strong neural impulsing to provide
well-controlled muscular contractions.

Keys to the Lift
- Make certain to keep the bead down throughout the movement application
- Utilize slow speed-of-contraction applications
- Exercise caution in selecting the resistance to be used in this movement

Hamstrings

Often Overlooked
The posterior muscles of the thigh are
often overlooked by many weight-training
enthusiasts. Even those trainees who devote
additional time to their leg training so
as to include isolation work on their quadriceps,
frequently neglect to include hamstring
movements into their leg exercise
portfolio. It seems that many weightresistance
trainees apply the “out-of-sightout-
of-mind” adage to their leg training. It
is much more encouraging to work on the
quadriceps where the deep cuts and crevices
can be readily admired. The hamstrings
are not as visible, and thus they require
more diligence on the part of the trainee to
provide proper development. From a tangible
perspective, the “hams” are not called
upon as prominently as the quads in performing
various athletic movements.

However, neglecting the hamstrings
reduces the trainee’s ability to fully develop
their legs. No trainee would ever think of
building only their biceps and not devoting
any attention to their triceps why is it then
that it can be assumed that proper and thorough
leg development can be accomplished
by placing emphasis on only the
anterior thigh and leaving the posterior
thigh untouched?

The benefits of providing for balanced
development of the legs can be realized
from an injury reduction perspective as
well. How many times have you heard of an athlete pulling their hamstrings? In fact I would be willing
to bet that the first mention you heard of the hamstring muscles (outside of the gym), was in reference
to an injury. Sprinters for example, who have built up their quadriceps through their running,
undergo the risk of pulling their weaker hamstrings due to the imbalance of strength.

While running encourages the development of the quadriceps it should be noted that the hamstrings
work in synergy with the quads. If the frontal thigh muscles are developed well beyond the
level of the posterior thigh muscles the posterior muscles become highly- vulnerable to injury risk.
From all perspectives, it makes sense to offer equal devotion to both the anterior and posterior regions
of the thigh.

Location and Function
The posterior region of the thigh is comprised of three main muscles all of which cover both the
knee and the hip joints. Since the hamstrings cross two joints they provide a function at each of
those joints. They serve as extensor of the thigh at the hip joint and flexors of the lower leg at the
knee joint.

Semitendinosus (A)
Location
Originates from the ischial tuberosity of the posterior hip and inserts on the medial surface of
the superior portion of the tibia at the knee.

Function
In addition to providing for hip joint extension and knee joint flexion, the semitendonosous is
also involved in medial rotation of the tibia.

Semimembranosus (B)
Location
Originates on the ischial tuberosity of the posterior hip and inserts on the posterior portion of
the medial condyle of the tibia at the knee joint.

Function
The Semimembranosus is also involved in medial rotation of the tibia.

Biceps Femoris (C)
Location
The biceps femoris of the posterior thigh is similarly constructed to the biceps femoris of the anterior
upper arm in that the muscle has two distinct (long and short), heads. The long head originates
on the ischial tuberosity where it shares a common tendon with the semitendonosous which crosses
at the hip joint. The short head originates from the lateral edge of the linea aspera alongside the femur
bone of the upper leg and the supracondyle region located on the proximal (inside) area of the
femur. Both the long and short heads of the biceps femoris combine via a single tendon and insert
on the head of the fibula of the lower leg.

Function
Both the long and short heads are involved in the action of leg flexion at the knee joint and are
also involved in the lateral rotation of the leg during knee flexion. It should be noted that because the
short head of the biceps femoris does not cross the hip joint it serves no function in hip joint activity.

Muscle Activation
Unlike the quadriceps muscles, the hamstring muscle group is not readily called upon during
many events involving physical activity. While the “quads” are called into action during such activities
as the ascending and descending of stairs or in the relatively simple task of walking, the hamstrings
relatively speaking lay mostly dormant with the result being that the muscles of the posterior thigh
are not nearly as developed as the quadriceps. As a consequence of their reduced activity, whenever
the hamstrings are called upon during movements requiring their high activation, they become correspondingly
highly susceptible to injury. It is important to realize the level of caution that must be
applied to hamstring training in order to stimulate growth and development while at the same time
reducing the risk of injury to this highly-vulnerable muscle group. As a manner of general approach,
the trainee would be well advised to work with light resistance and to utilize slow speed-of- contraction
movement applications featuring full range-of-motion contractions. In this report we will be
analyzing three hamstring movements. Two movements will feature knee joint flexion (lying and
standing leg curls) and one will highlight a stretching action of the posterior thigh (deadlift).

Introduction
Performing the power movements of the leg exercise inventory (the power movements will be
covered in detail later in this section), will develop both the posterior and anterior regions of the
thighs. However, in order to create clear definition and separation of the quadriceps muscles, specific
attention must be devoted to the area. The most effective manner in which to isolate the quadriceps
is to perform the thigh (knee) extension exercise. It should be noted that there are a number of power
type movements that provide opportunity to build rippling quadriceps including front squats.

Considerations for Machine Selection
The thigh extension exercise is performed on a leg extension machine. There are two basic variations
of the leg extension machine:

- Combination thigh-extension and thigh-curl machine
- Specific leg extension machine.

Because the combination thigh extension/thigh curl machine was designed to accommodate exercises
for both the quadriceps and the hamstrings, the bed is flat. The specific thigh extension machine
allows for either a flat position of the seat or an angled seat. Some machines feature multi-angle
capability which allows for a variation in frontal thigh accentuation.

The flat bed, while allowing accentuation of the entire frontal thigh really emphasizes the lower
region of the frontal thigh. The angled bed also provides accentuation of the entire frontal thigh but
allows for facilitated accentuation of the upper region. Of the two machines, the specific thigh exten28
sion machine can be used to greater
advantage than the combination machine
because of the angled bed. As
well, the specific leg extension machine
provides a back rest which allows
for facilitated maintenance of
desired posture. Some machines offer
a single-leg application of the movement
for even greater isolation.

Considerations for Foot
Positions
This particular movement can be
applied with a variety of foot placements
(wide, narrow, closed) and four
ankle-joint positions (inversion, eversion,
and plantar and dorsi flexion).
Each specific approach to the thigh
(knee-joint) extension exercise will
provide specific accentuation upon
the quadriceps muscle group. Narrow
and closed stances stimulate the outer
region of the frontal thigh while the
wide foot placement would encourage
activation of the inner portion of the
frontal thigh. In addition, the eversion
position of the ankle-joint would
provide high activation of the vastus
medialis located on the inner anterior
thigh while the inversion position of
the ankle-joint would provide stimulation
of the outer portion of the anterior
thigh. The plantar and dorsi
flexion positions would stimulate the
middle portion of the anterior thigh.
The three main foot positions
that can be applied during this exercise
in order to accentuate the various
areas of the frontal upper leg (thigh)
are as follows:

Toes straight-ahead position
This position is considered to provide for a general
emphasis to be applied to the four quadriceps muscles.
Though it should be noted that the vastus intermedius
bears the major brunt of the exertion here which results
in the rectus femoris (the large muscle in the middle of
the frontal upper leg) to be accentuated.

Toes turned-in position
This position allows for an accentuation of the vastus
lateralis which provides for that sweeping outerregion
that is so impressive in frontal thigh development.

Toes turned-out position
This position allows for the accentuation of the
medial (inner) region of the frontal upper leg. The vastus
medialis (the large bulging muscle on the inner portion of
the lower region of the frontal thigh) is greatly accentuated
during the toes turned-out placement. Additional
emphasis can be provided to the inner portion of the
inner thigh by rotating the ankle joint outward.

You may want to experiment with the various foot
positions and placements as you continue through your
program but for purposes of a general frontal thigh application
the beginning weight training student would
best be served with a toes straight-ahead position.

Considerations for Feet Displacement and
Dorsi and Plantar Flexion
The feet should be placed about 6-8 inches apart
(depending upon the width of the hips) in order to provide
optimum growth and development potential. Wider
feet placements reduce the natural range-of-motion and
encourage breakdowns in technique such as rocking forward
and backward which encourages a drooping of the
head response which induces the back into a rounded posture which could lead to lower back injury.
Extremely close feet placements can invoke strain upon the spine. Close placements also discourage
the involvement of the vastus media1is during the movement.

There is also much discussion concerning the position of the feet with respect to either dorsal or
plantar flexion. Dorsal flexion (toes pointed up), encourages an increase in tension during the
movement application which allows for greater accentuation to be applied upon the vastus interme-
dius which promotes the accentuation of the rectus femoris. This response creates the deep crevices
and distinct separation in the muscles of the frontal thigh. The action of dorsal flexion however encourages
the upper torso to come forward which reduces the range-of-motion and creates stress
upon the lower back.

The tendency with dorsal flexion applications is to apply herky-jerky movement applications with
an exaggerated rocking motion which reduces the effectiveness of the exercise and could lead to lower
back injury.

Plantar flexion applications (toes pointed straight ahead) encourage full range-of-motion applications
but they also promote increased speed-of-contraction applications which can invoke serious
knee injuries during the concentric contraction phase of the movement. Particularly vulnerable is the
patella ligament which can be easily strained if the movement is not highly-controlled.

Summary of Correct Exercise Execution
- Assuming the use of a specific leg extension machine position yourself upon the seat so that the
edge of the seat is fitted snugly into the bend of the knees.
- Place the insteps under the rollers about 6-8 inches apart making certain that the rollers do not
come up on to the shins. If the rollers come up too high they will alter the force vector thus reducing
the effectiveness of the exercise. Conversely you will want to make certain that the rollers
are not placed too low near the toes where they might slip off during the movement creating a
pressure differential that could invoke injuries to the knees and to the lower back.
- Grip the handles at the side of the seat and straighten the arms and lift the chin up and thrust the
chest forward in order to assume the proper posture to allow for the safe, efficient movement
application. Make certain that you establish contact with the back rest and if a cushion is available
place it at the area of your lower back in order to provide maximum stability. Note: If a combination
leg extension/leg curl machine is being used you will want to make certain to place the
end of the bed behind your knees and lean back slightly (about 35 degrees). By leaning back you
are able to allow for a full range-of-motion application and you will reduce the stress upon the
lower lumbar region. You will need to grip the side of the bench with a fully extended arm position
in order to keep provide for the desired head-up posture. You will also want to avoid the
tendency to lean back too far in the starting position as this will reduce the effectiveness of the
exercise. As well, you will need to concentrate fully on avoiding the natural urge to lean back
during the application of the movement in effort to provide momentum to the lift.
- With either the specific or combination machine usages, you will want to keep your head held in
the erect position. If the head is allowed to droop during the movement it will create a resulting
rounding of the back posture. A rounded posture greatly reduces the range-of- motion capability
and places adds exertion upon the lower spine which could easily result in injury.
- Once in the correct position slowly raise the weight by extending at the knees. You will want to
resist the urge to snap the weight up into the fu11y-extended position. It is imperative to extend
slowly in order to avoid the dangerous snapping action which could. produce serious injury to
the patella ligament in the knees as well as to the lower back. Some trainers advocate the concept
of not fully extending in the finish position in order to reduce the risk of knee and back injuries.
However, it is felt here that a properly performed extension will allow for an enhanced growth
and development benefit associated with a full range-of-motion contraction while allowing for a
safe movement application.
- Once at the fully-extended concentric contraction position bold the resistance for two counts in
order to allow for the impulse to run the entire length of the frontal thigh and then slowly lower
the weight to the starting position.
- You will want to concentrate on maintaining correct posture during the eccentric contraction
phase of the movement in order to avoid “bouncing” into the subsequent concentric contraction.
The bouncing action encourages the body to bend forward which severely reduces the
range-of-motion and could lead to lower back injury. As well, by lowering the weight slowly you
are more easily able to avert the tendency of raising off the seat in effort to provide body-weight
momentum into the following concentric contraction.
- You will need to concentrate strongly in order to maximize neural-impulse activity throughout
the eccentric contraction phases of the movement. Lactic acid builds up readily during this exercise
and the natural tendency is to yield to the pain and come only partially through the ROM before
attempting to blast the weight back up. This aborted approach to the movement application
creates a herky-jerky movement application that can invoke injuries to the lower back as well as
the knees.

Keys to the Lift
- Keep the head up and the back straight throughout both the concentric and eccentric contraction
phases of the exercise.
- Utilize slow movement applications and avoid “snapping out” in order to reduce the risk of injury
to the knees and to the lower back.
- Concentrate fully on avoiding the natural tendency to “bounce” into the concentric contraction.

Single Leg Variation
A variation of the thigh (knee-joint) extension movement is the single leg application. The single
leg approach provides even greater emphasis on the quadriceps. However, it is recommended that
beginning weight-training enthusiasts perfect the technique of the conventional two-legged version
of the exercise before implementing the single leg application in order to avoid the common flaws in
technique that are accentuated during the performance of the single leg exercise.
Flaws in Execution

- Dropping the head and leaning forward during the execution of the concentric contraction.
- Rocking back and forth during the movement application
- Performing the movement with herky-jerky movement applications
- Not locking out at the completion of the concentric contraction phase
- Bouncing at the bottom of the eccentric contraction phase.
- Using rapid-fire speed-of-contraction during the movement application.

It should be noted however that these flaws in technique can be easily averted with a little experience
with the thigh (knee-joint) extension exercise and should not be overlooked entirely. In fact
the practiced trainee can apply more
ly-facilitated perfected technique in the single
leg version due to increased accentuation
and more readily-facilitated range-of
motion applications.

Quadriceps

Location and Function
The showy muscles that provide the cuts
and definition of the frontal region of the thigh
are called the quadriceps femoris. As their name
suggests, the quadriceps are comprised of four
muscles that cover the anterior and lateral portions
of the femur bone of the thigh. The
“quads” consist of the rectus femoris and the
three “vasti” muscles: vastus lateralis, vastus
medialis, and vastus intermedius. The four
muscles of the frontal thigh join together to
form the quadriceps tendon which allows them
to share a share a common insertion on the
tibial tuberosity of the patellar ligament of the
knee. All are considered extensor muscles and
are involved in the action of knee joint extension.

Rectus Femoris (A)
Location
Originates on the iliac crest of the hip and
inserts on the tibial tuberosity of the patella
ligament of the knee.

Function
It is involved in leg extension at the knee
and is also involved in leg flexion at the hip
joint.

Vastus Lateralis (B)
Location
A large sweeping muscle that covers the
entire lateral portion of the anterior thigh and
extends into the anterior and posterior aspect
of the region of the thigh.

Function
It is involved in the action of leg extension at the knee joint.

Vastus Medialis (C)
Location
Originates on the medial lip of the linea aspera and rests on the inside portion of the anterior
thigh.

Function
It is involved in extension of the leg at the knee joint.

Vastus Intermedius
Location
Originates on the anterior and lateral surfaces of the femur and on the lower trochanter on the
head of the femur. It also takes its origin from the lateral region of the linea aspera along the lateral
ridge of the femur.