Leg machines for lower-body strength training

Which leg machine suits your training?

Choose according to the movement and muscle groups you want to train. A leg press primarily works the quadriceps and glutes through a guided pressing movement. A hack squat supports the body during a guided squat, with the movement path depending on the design. Calf exercises require a machine and footplate explicitly suitable for that use.

Leg extensions focus on the quadriceps, while leg curls target the hamstrings. Hip thrust trainers emphasise the glutes. Glute ham developers (GHDs) offer different exercises for the hamstrings, glutes and lower back, depending on the setup and technique. Check seat, pad and range-of-motion adjustments to find a model suited to your body and exercises.

Plate loading and weight-plate compatibility

Many leg machines are plate-loaded, meaning you add separate weight plates to adjust the load. Depending on the model, they accept standard plates (30 mm) or Olympic weight plates (50 mm); these measurements refer to the plate hole diameter. Check the machine’s specified loading-pin diameter, any required adapters and maximum load. Other standard sizes also exist, so do not assume every standard plate fits. Plates are included only when expressly stated.

For home gyms and professional use

Explore compact options for home gyms and machines designed for frequent professional use. Compare dimensions, frame stability, maximum user weight and permitted training load. Leave room for the full movement, access and loading plates. A robust appearance alone does not establish commercial suitability: check the manufacturer’s intended use, installation requirements and operating instructions.

This category is part of our wider range of strength stations and strength equipment for home gyms and professional training spaces.