Exercise Comparison
All Fours Quad Stretch vs Single-Leg Leg Extension
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in All Fours Quad Stretch
Instructions
All Fours Quad Stretch
Start off on your hands and knees, then lift your leg off the floor and hold the foot with your hand.
Use your hand to hold the foot or ankle, keeping the knee fully flexed, stretching the quadriceps and hip flexors.
Focus on extending your hips, thrusting them towards the floor. Hold for 10-20 seconds and then switch sides.
Single-Leg Leg Extension
Seat yourself in the machine and adjust it so that you are positioned properly. The pad should be against the lower part of the shin but not in contact with the ankle. Adjust the seat so that the pivot point is in line with your knee. Select a weight appropriate for your abilities.
Maintaining good posture, fully extend one leg, pausing at the top of the motion.
Return to the starting position without letting the weight stop, keeping tension on the muscle.
Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Verdict
Both exercises target the quadriceps. All Fours Quad Stretch is a intermediate exercise using bodyweight, while Single-Leg Leg Extension is beginner and uses machine. Choose Single-Leg Leg Extension if you're looking for a more accessible option, or All Fours Quad Stretch for a greater challenge.