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- Why the Squat Still Reigns Over the Leg Press
Why the Squat Still Reigns Over the Leg Press
Most lifters think of bicep curls as a vanity move, but done right, they build real strength that carries over to your main lifts.
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The leg press is a solid exercise for building leg size, but if your goal is total strength and athletic power, the squat still rules.
When you squat, you engage your core, hips, and upper back to stabilize the bar and transfer force through the entire body. That level of coordination and balance is something the leg press cannot match.
The leg press locks your path of movement, which makes it safer for some lifters recovering from injury or managing lower back issues. But because the machine removes the need for stabilization, it limits how much real-world strength you build.
For most lifters, the leg press is best used as an accessory lift, not a replacement for squats. It’s a way to add volume, isolate your quads, and build leg endurance after your main compound work is done.
Strong legs start with a strong foundation. If you want strength that carries over to every lift and every sport, squat first and use the leg press as support, not a shortcut.
Need more? Check out the powerlifting app for specific programs.
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