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Hamstrings

Standing leg curl: how to do it right

This is the standing leg curl, one leg at a time. It lets you focus on each hamstring separately.

Main muscle
Hamstrings
Also works
Calves
Equipment
Standing leg curl machine
Level
Beginner
Standing leg curl: start position
Start position
Standing leg curl: end position
End position

Step by step

  1. Set up the machine with your knee aligned with the pivot and the roller behind your ankle.
  2. Rest your forearms or hold the handles.
  3. Bend your knee, bringing your heel towards your glute.
  4. Lower slowly and repeat; then switch legs.

Tip: Start with your weaker leg.

Common mistakes

Moving your hips

Keep your hips still and against the pad.

Dropping the weight

Control the lowering.

Short range

Curl as far as you can.

Sets and reps

Guide ranges. Start with a weight where the last rep is hard but your technique holds.

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3–53–62–3 min
Build muscle3–46–121.5–2 min
Health and fitness2–310–151 min

In GymOrbita you log every set and the app suggests the weight for your next session based on what you did last time.

Alternatives

If the machine is busy or you want a variation:

FAQ

Why one leg at a time?

To fix differences between your legs.

General technique information, not a substitute for professional advice. If you have an injury or pain, check with a doctor or physiotherapist first.

Add standing leg curl to your routine

GymOrbita has this exercise with its animation: log the weight and reps of every set and track your progress. Free.