Exercise guide
Seated Leg Curl
The Seated Leg Curl trains the hamstrings by bending the knees against a machine pad. The seated position places the hips in flexion and allows the thighs and torso to remain supported throughout the set.
Training context
Setup Cues for the Seated Leg Curl
Align the machine's pivot with the knee joint and place the lower-leg pad above the ankles. Secure the thigh pad firmly enough to prevent the legs from lifting without pressing uncomfortably into the knees.
The starting position does not need to force the knees completely straight. Use the available range that feels comfortable and keeps the hips against the seat.
Technique overview
Curl without lifting the thighs
Sit with the back supported and grasp the handles. Bend the knees to draw the pad beneath the seat while keeping the thighs secured. Pause briefly, then straighten the legs slowly without allowing the weight stack to slam down.
Treat this as an overview and use a range, pace, and setup you can control.