To brace for a leg press, stabilize your upper body and, most importantly, your spine.
Here's a breakdown of how to do it correctly:
- Upper Body Stabilization: Lightly grasp any available handles to stabilize your upper extremity.
- Spinal Stabilization: Contract (“brace”) your abdominal muscles to stabilize your spine. This is the core of bracing.
- Avoid Lower Back Movement: Be careful to avoid movement in your low back throughout the exercise. Keeping your core engaged will help prevent this.
Essentially, "bracing" involves tightening your core muscles as if you were about to be punched in the stomach. This creates a rigid torso, protecting your spine and allowing for a more powerful and stable leg press.
