Exercise Equipment for Legs

Leg Press Machine

One of the best exercise machines for overall leg toning and firming are leg press machines. When you work out using a leg press machine, your movements work all of your lower body muscles. The resulting actions of your lower body muscles are very similar to those that occur when doing squats. On this type of machine by simply shifting your feet into a different position, you are able to change the area of your legs that you are targeting during your work out. For example, a narrow foot stance will work the calf muscles when you only push with your toes while a wide stance focuses on your hamstrings and glutes.

Another excellent feature of the leg press machine involves safety. The way the machines are constructed once the safety clips are in place the weights are held securely and you do not have to worry about them falling on you. Starting off with light weights and working up to heavier weights as your workouts progress is an excellent way to avoid injury.

Types of Leg Press Machines

There are several different types of leg press machines including:

• Diagonal leg press
• Sled type leg press
• Horizontal leg press
• Seated leg press
• Lever seated leg press
• 45 degree leg press

Calf Machines

Calf machines specifically target the calf muscles. Using calf machines helps to develop, strengthen and tone these often neglected muscles.

Types of Calf Machines

• Seated calf machine
• Leverage Squat / Calf Exercise Machine
• Extreme Calf Machine
• Standing calf machine

Leg Curl Machine

One of the best ways to exercise your hamstrings is on a leg curl machine. Working out on this machine will strengthen and develop your thigh muscles. Leg curl machines are available as standing models or a model with a seat.

Leg Extension Machine

Leg extension machines help to develop strong shapely thighs while strengthening the knees. Often leg exercise equipment will be a combination of a leg extension machine and a leg curl machine.

Leg Adduction and Leg Abduction Machine

A great exercise machine to work the inner thigh muscles is a leg adduction machine. A leg abduction machine works the muscles of the outer thighs.

Compact Exercise Equipment for Legs

Exercise equipment that is lightweight and compact is great for home gyms. The following equipment is portable, easy to move a and simple to use.

• For a low impact workout for your legs that tones and tightens leg muscles the Leg Shaper may be the perfect exercise equipment for home use.
• The compact Lateral Balance Stepper offers a thorough leg workout while working on the entire lower body area.
• Fitness Stepper Stair Climber Exercise Mini Step Machine is a great overall workout for your legs.
• Bun and Thigh Roller works to tighten up your inner and outer thigh muscles.

Conclusion

Exercise machines for legs come in many shapes, sizes and price ranges. Whether you workout in a gym or at home, adding a machine that works your leg muscles will strengthen, develop and tone this often overlooked area of your body.

A Word of Caution

Before starting any exercise program it is always best to check with your physician to determine if it is best for you. This is essential if you have prior health problems, are pregnant or under eighteen years old. If you go to a gym and are unsure about a particular piece of exercise equipment do not hesitate to ask someone from the gym to assist you.