Leg-press

/ˈlɛɡ ˌprɛs/ noun

Definition

A weight training exercise performed on a machine where you push weight away from your body using your legs while seated or lying down, targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes.

Etymology

Compound from 'leg' (Old Norse 'leggr') and 'press' (Old French 'presser'), literally meaning to press with the legs. The exercise became popular in the 1970s as gym equipment evolved to provide safer alternatives to free weight squats.

Kelly Says

The leg press machine can handle enormous weights - the world record is over 2,300 pounds - but this is misleading because the angled position and machine assistance make it much easier than a squat, where elite powerlifters max out around 1,200 pounds!

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