Day 5 — Legs (Variation)

ExerciseMechanicsSetsRepsEquipmentPrimary Focus
Leg PressCompound (Quads / Glutes)38–12Leg Press MachineQuad Mass & Controlled Depth
Walking / Stationary LungesCompound (Unilateral)310–12 each legDumbbells / BarbellGlutes, Quads & Stability
Leg ExtensionIsolation (Quads)312–15MachineQuad Peak Contraction
Leg Curl (Seated / Lying)Isolation (Hamstrings)310–15MachineHamstring Stretch & Squeeze
Calf Raise (Seated / Standing)Isolation (Calves)412–20Machine / BodyweightFull Stretch & Strong Contraction

Focus on controlled tempo and quad-dominant loading with leg press and lunges, followed by isolation work for balanced lower-body growth.

Workout Form & Technique Guide

Visual references and coaching cues for maximizing leg hypertrophy and strength.

1. Leg Press

A powerful compound lower-body movement allowing heavy quad loading with controlled spinal stress.

Form Reference

Leg Press form 1
Leg Press form 2

Key Points

  • Lower platform with control.
  • Do not lock knees aggressively.
  • Keep lower back flat against pad.

Alternative Exercises

  • Single-Leg Press
  • Hack Squat Machine
  • Smith Machine Squats

2. Walking / Stationary Lunges

A unilateral leg builder that improves balance, glute activation, and overall leg symmetry.

Form Reference

Walking / Stationary Lunges form 1
Walking / Stationary Lunges form 2

Key Points

  • Step forward with control.
  • Keep torso upright.
  • Drive through front heel.

Alternative Exercises

  • Reverse Lunges
  • Bulgarian Split Squats
  • Step-Ups

3. Leg Extension

An isolation exercise to maximally fatigue the quadriceps and improve muscle definition.

Form Reference

Leg Extension form 1
Leg Extension form 2

Key Points

  • Pause briefly at the top.
  • Control the eccentric.
  • Avoid using momentum.

Alternative Exercises

  • Single-Leg Extension
  • Resistance Band Extensions

4. Leg Curl (Seated / Lying) / RDL

Strengthens hamstrings to balance quad-dominant movements and protect the knees.

Form Reference

Leg Curl (Seated / Lying) / RDL form 1
Leg Curl (Seated / Lying) / RDL form 2

Key Points

  • Keep hips pressed down.
  • Squeeze at peak contraction.
  • Control descent fully.

Alternative Exercises

  • Romanian Deadlift
  • Cable Leg Curl
  • Swiss Ball Curl

5. Calf Raise (Seated / Standing)

Targets both gastrocnemius and soleus muscles for complete calf development.

Form Reference

Calf Raise (Seated / Standing) form 1
Calf Raise (Seated / Standing) form 2

Key Points

  • Lower heels fully for stretch.
  • Pause briefly at bottom.
  • Explode upward and squeeze.

Alternative Exercises

  • Donkey Calf Raise
  • Single-Leg Calf Raise
  • Leg Press Calf Raise