Protecting your knees on the seated leg press involves proper form and controlled movements. According to the provided reference, avoid lowering your thighs too far to prevent knee injury.
Proper Seated Leg Press Form for Knee Safety
Here's how to protect your knees during the seated leg press:
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Depth: Do not lower your thighs to below a 90-degree angle at the knee. Going too low puts excessive stress on the knee joint.
- Example: Imagine your knee joint as a hinge. Bending it too far can damage it.
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Knee Alignment: Ensure your kneecaps track in line with your feet throughout the exercise.
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Controlled Movement: Avoid bouncing or using momentum. Focus on slow, controlled movements during both the push and return phases.
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Weight Selection: Choose a weight that allows you to maintain proper form. If the weight is too heavy, you're more likely to compromise your form and risk injury.
Why is Depth Important?
Lowering the weight too far increases the stress on your knee joint and surrounding ligaments and tendons. Maintaining a controlled range of motion that doesn't exceed a 90-degree angle helps to minimize this stress.
