This month on Trainer Tip Tuesday we will be discussing considerations when you are using the knee flexion (a.k.a. leg curl) machine. The knee flexion machine can be one of the most effective tools in the gym for building the size and strength of your hamstrings, but there are many things to keep in mind before hopping on.

When using the knee flexion machine, there is a lot of opportunity to be distracted by things that ultimately don’t help you build your health and function with this exercise. What should you be thinking about in this case to make sure that you don’t get caught up in distractions?

Over the past decade plus of working with clients, we have found that one of the best things to be thinking about when doing this exercise is the muscles you are trying to challenge. In this case, we recommend you focus on squeezing your hamstrings. Sometimes people focus on squeezing their calves as well, which is a fine option, but we almost always recommend the focus be put on the hamstrings.

If your focus is somewhere other than on squeezing your muscles, there is a high likelihood that your results from this exercise will not be as great as they could be and you may be setting yourself up for an increased risk for injury.

Check out all of the details in this week’s episode of Trainer Tip Tuesday, and be sure to tune back in next week as we discuss considerations for the knee flexion machine.


Team MAS

Muscle Activation Schaumburg is an exercise facility located in Schaumburg, IL with a goal to help you keep your health for as long as possible. We know that it is your health that allows you to do the things you love in life. This is why we promote a lifestyle that includes exercise, rather than exercise that is a burden to your life. Muscle Activation Schaumburg provides Muscle Activation Techniques® (MAT®) and personal training services to its clients. We use MAT® and exercise to increase the function of your body. A well-functioning body is what allows you to stay healthy and do the things you love. We value helping the members of our community of Schaumburg as well as surrounding communities of the Northwest Suburbs improve their health.