Leg Press Vs. Squat

Leg Press vs. Squat



When executed properly, the squat is the King of all leg exercises because it recruits so many muscles not only in the lower body but in upper body as well. The key is doing the exercise properly. One of the common squatting errors, I see in the gym is a guy putting tons of weight on the bar and doing quarter squats. Quarter squatters have nothing to show for it but an inflated ego and small uncut legs. Some other common and troubling things I see are people extending their knees beyond their toes, buckling or bowing of the knees and rounding of the back. These errors in squatting technique place tremendous stress on the knee ligaments and back and that is bad.



In my opinion the leg press is a better alternative for most because it is much easier to execute and pretty much anyone can do it. Beginners can use the leg press to build up their legs and guys who have been training for a while can also use it to add mass as well as shape the leg. So to answer the much debated question, I say you don’t have to squat to get good legs. Using the leg press as your prime mass builder and shaper will work just fine.



I am not saying to abandon the squat altogether because it is a great exercise that works the whole body and strengthens your core. It is an exercise that everyone (except those with chronic knee problems) should have in their repertoire. Like I said earlier if you are going to squat, just make sure to perform it properly. So for now, I recommend to leg press and practice squatting with no weights paying careful attention to form. Over time, the amount of weight you use on the squat will go up. Always remember proper form will give you good results and keep you injury free.



Here are some squatting tips:



1) Pick a comfortable stance

2) Knees should not extend beyond the toes

3) Don’t bow or buckle the knees

5) Keep your back straight

6) Use a manageable weight where you can keep good form

7) If form breaks down go lighter


***People with a history of knee problems should stay away from squats and stick with the leg press.