Exercise 0739 · REF 10Z2DXU
Sled 45в° Leg Press
- Category
- Upper Legs
- Equipment
- Sled Machine
- Target
- Glutes
The 45-degree leg press lets you load the legs heavier than most squats without the same demand on balance or spinal loading, which makes it a useful option when a lifter's back needs a break but the legs still need work. Foot placement changes the emphasis substantially — higher on the platform biases the glutes and hamstrings, lower biases the quads. It's a staple accessory to barbell squats rather than a full replacement for them.
How to Do the Sled 45в° Leg Press
- Adjust the seat and footplate of the sled machine to a comfortable position.
- Sit on the sled machine with your back against the backrest and your feet shoulder-width apart on the footplate.
- Grip the handles on the sides of the seat for stability.
- Push the footplate away from your body by extending your legs, keeping your heels on the footplate.
- Continue pushing until your legs are almost fully extended, but without locking your knees.
- Pause for a moment at the top of the movement, then slowly lower the footplate back towards your body by bending your knees.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Muscles Worked
The Sled 45в° Leg Press primarily targets the Glutes, with Quadriceps as the primary synergist muscle group, along with the Hamstrings, Calves.
More Upper Legs Exercises
All Fours Squad Stretch
Arms Apart Circular Toe Touch (male)
Assisted Lying Glutes Stretch
Assisted Lying Gluteus And Piriformis Stretch
Assisted Prone Hamstring
Assisted Prone Lying Quads Stretch
More Glutes Exercises
Band Bent-Over Hip Extension
Band Hip Lift
Band Lying Hip Internal Rotation
Band Pull Through
Band Seated Hip Internal Rotation
Band Squat
Equipment Alternatives
Don't have sled machine? These target the same glutes with different equipment.
Arms Apart Circular Toe Touch (male)
Assisted Lying Glutes Stretch
Band Bent-Over Hip Extension
Barbell Clean-Grip Front Squat
FAQ
- What muscles does the Sled 45в° Leg Press work?
- The Sled 45в° Leg Press primarily targets the glutes, with the quadriceps and hamstrings, calves assisting.
- What equipment do I need for the Sled 45в° Leg Press?
- The Sled 45в° Leg Press is done with a sled machine.
- What's a good alternative to the Sled 45в° Leg Press?
- If you don't have access to a sled machine, the Arms Apart Circular Toe Touch (male) targets the same glutes using body weight instead.