Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl
Strengthen hamstrings with Inverse Leg Curls! Target your posterior chain for powerful, toned legs. Perfect for all fitness levels.
The Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl mainly works the hamstrings and glutes & hips, with help from the core and lower back. You'll need: seated leg curl machine.
Required Equipment

Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl Muscles Worked
Primary
Hamstrings; Glutes (gluteus maximus)
Secondary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Spinal Erectors (erector spinae)
Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl
Setting Up:
Adjust the leg curl machine to ensure the padded bar rests comfortably against the back of your lower legs (just above your ankles).
Set the desired weight on the machine to match your fitness level.
Positioning:
Kneel on the machine's pad, ensuring your knees are on the padded platform and your feet are off the ground.
Grasp the handles or sides of the machine for stability.
Starting Position:
Keep your back straight and engage your core. Your body should form a straight line from your head to your knees.
Movement:
Slowly bend your legs at the knees to lift the padded bar towards your glutes. Focus on using your hamstrings for this movement.
Lift until your lower legs are parallel to the ground. Avoid using your back or arms; the movement should be isolated to your legs.
Contraction:
Hold the contraction at the top of the movement for a brief moment (1-2 seconds) to maximize engagement.
Returning:
Slowly lower the padded bar back to the starting position, fully extending your legs without letting the weights touch down completely to maintain tension.
Repetitions:
Perform 8-12 repetitions for 2-4 sets, depending on your fitness level.
Cool Down:
After completing your sets, exit the machine carefully and stretch your hamstrings to prevent stiffness.
Tips:
Maintain a controlled pace throughout the movement to avoid injury.
Ensure your knees stay aligned and do not extend beyond your toes during the exercise.
Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl FAQs
What muscles does the Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl work?
The Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl mainly works the hamstrings and glutes & hips, with help from the core and lower back. The main muscles are the hamstrings and gluteus maximus.
What equipment do you need for the Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl?
Seated leg curl machine.
What workout day should the Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Cable Nordic Hamstring Curl variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Alternating Hamstring Pulldown Curl, Assisted Nordic Partner Curl, Assisted Partial-Range Nordic Partner Curl and Alternating Bodyweight Lying Leg Curl.
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