Feet in Straps: Leg Press

Modern Repertoire Intermediate Supine Hip & Posterior Chain

Vertical leg press with feet in straps challenging quadriceps strength and pelvic-lumbar stability through the full range of motion.

Schematic — Feet in Straps: Leg Press Reformer · 2 medium springs · Footbar Medium · Headrest Medium

Teaching Precautions

Common precautions, not exhaustive. Screen every client and refer when in doubt.

Low Back Pain: Anchoring the pelvis against spring load can strain the low back; reduce the spring and keep the ribs down.
Pregnancy: Supine leg pressing can compress the vena cava after the first trimester; elevate the head or use side-lying alternatives.

Spring Tension 2 medium springs

Headrest Medium

Transverse Abdominis (Primary)Quadriceps (Primary)Rectus Abdominis (Secondary)Hip Flexors (Secondary)

Lie supine on the carriage with both feet secured in the long straps, legs extended toward the ceiling at 60 to 90 degrees, pelvis neutral.

Exhale to press both feet tall toward the ceiling, extending the knees fully, then inhale to bend back with control.
Keep the sacrum anchored and the ribs soft.

Alignment

"Anchor the sacrum and keep the lower ribs soft as the legs extend."

Breath

"Exhale as the legs extend tall, inhale as the knees bend back."

Control

"Press both feet evenly so the springs stay balanced side to side."

Bend the knees to a smaller angle and press only partway to extension, keeping the pelvis anchored.

Slow the press and return to a three-count tempo to increase time under tension and core demand.

For low back pain, keep the ribs drawn down and the sacrum heavy on the carriage, press only to three-quarter extension and use a lighter spring.

The rest of the Feet in Straps family.