45-Degree Leg Press - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

45-Degree Leg Press

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the 45-Degree Leg Press.

MediumGlutesQuadriceps

About this exercise

The Sled 45° Leg Press is a compound lower-body exercise performed on a 45-degree angled sled machine, primarily targeting the quadriceps while also engaging the glutes and hamstrings. The angled sled allows heavy loading with reduced spinal compression compared to squatting.

How to Perform

  • Sit in the 45-degree leg press machine and place your feet shoulder-width apart on the center of the footplate
  • Release the safety handles and lower the sled by bending your knees until they reach approximately 90 degrees or until your lower back begins to round
  • Keep your feet flat on the plate and your lower back pressed against the seat pad
  • Press through your heels and the entire foot to extend your legs and push the sled back up
  • Stop just short of locking out the knees at the top to maintain tension on the muscles
  • Repeat for the desired number of reps before re-engaging the safety handles

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesQuadriceps
Secondary
CalvesInner thighs

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the 45-Degree Leg Press

The 45-Degree Leg Press is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.