Level Up Performance & Wellness

WHY SKIPPING THE LEG EXTENSION MACHINE IS NOT IDEAL FOR BUILDING YOUR LOWER BODY 👀🦵🍑

A lot of people avoid leg extensions because they think it’s “bad for the knees” or only useful for bodybuilders.

But here’s the thing:
Strong quads help BOTH men and women perform better in lower-body training.

Exercises like:
• Squats
• Lunges
• Bulgarian split squats
• Leg press
• Running and jumping movements

all rely on the quads for knee stability and force production 🔥

Weak quads can lead to:
❌ Knee discomfort
❌ Poor squat control
❌ Less power output
❌ Early fatigue during glute or leg exercises

Interesting fact:
Research on patellofemoral pain rehab actually uses leg extensions to improve knee strength and function because controlled loading helps the knee adapt better to movement not become weaker.

So don’t avoid the leg extension machine just because it’s labeled “bad for the knees” 👀 Current research still considers quadriceps strengthening including exercises like leg extensions as one of the primary treatments for patellofemoral pain and knee function

📚 References:
• Severo-Silveira et al. (2026). Single-set versus three-set resistance training in women with patellofemoral pain. Brazilian Journal of Physical Therapy.
• W***y RW et al. (2019). Patellofemoral Pain Clinical Practice Guidelines. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy.
• Baldon et al. (2014). Effects of functional stabilization training on lower limb biomechanics in women with PFP.

Peng is one of the fastest runners in the women’s category in Bataan🏃🏻‍♀️‍➡️

Level Up 📈 Session done! Good luck on your upcoming Apo run, Peng!