# Seated Leg Curl (Machine)

> The seated leg curl is a machine isolation exercise that trains your hamstrings by bending your knees against a pad.

Page: https://fitnessie.app/exercises/seated-leg-curl/
Type: Machine · Isolation
Demo video: https://fitnessie.app/demos/seated-leg-curl-machine/75fefddca204f548.mp4

## How to do it

1. Adjust the seat so your knees line up with the machine pivot.
2. Set the thigh pad snug on your thighs just above your knees, with the ankle pad above your heels.
3. Hold the side handles and start with your legs out, not locked.
4. Curl your heels toward your hips as far as your knees bend.
5. Pause briefly, then let the weight back slowly.

## Key cues

- Knees in line with the pivot
- Back and hips stay on the pad
- Curl as far as you can, then pause
- Slow on the way back

## Common mistakes

- Not adjusting the machine to your body
- Using more weight than you can control and swinging it
- Lifting your hips or thighs as you curl
- Locking your legs out hard at the start

## Muscles worked

- Primary: Hamstrings

## Equipment

Seated leg curl machine.

## Programs that use it

- [PHUL](https://fitnessie.app/programs/phul/)
- [Upper/Lower](https://fitnessie.app/programs/upper-lower/)

## References

- [StrengthLog: Seated Leg Curl](https://www.strengthlog.com/seated-leg-curl/)
- [Planfit: Seated Leg Curl](https://planfit.ai/en/exercise/seated-leg-curl)
- [Fitbod: Seated Leg Curl](https://fitbod.me/exercises/seated-leg-curl)