Exercise Comparison
90/90 Hamstring vs Seated Leg Curl
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in 90/90 Hamstring
Instructions
90/90 Hamstring
Lie on your back, with one leg extended straight out.
With the other leg, bend the hip and knee to 90 degrees. You may brace your leg with your hands if necessary. This will be your starting position.
Extend your leg straight into the air, pausing briefly at the top. Return the leg to the starting position.
Repeat for 10-20 repetitions, and then switch to the other leg.
Seated Leg Curl
Adjust the machine lever to fit your height and sit on the machine with your back against the back support pad.
Place the back of lower leg on top of padded lever (just a few inches under the calves) and secure the lap pad against your thighs, just above the knees. Then grasp the side handles on the machine as you point your toes straight (or you can also use any of the other two stances) and ensure that the legs are fully straight right in front of you. This will be your starting position.
As you exhale, pull the machine lever as far as possible to the back of your thighs by flexing at the knees. Keep your torso stationary at all times. Hold the contracted position for a second.
Slowly return to the starting position as you breathe in.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Verdict
Both exercises target the hamstrings. 90/90 Hamstring is a beginner exercise using bodyweight, while Seated Leg Curl is beginner and uses machine. Choose 90/90 Hamstring if you have access to bodyweight, or Seated Leg Curl if you prefer machine.