Sled Lying Squat
Build lower body strength with the Sled Lying Squat. A safe, effective, and supported squat variation. Great for all levels!
The Sled Lying Squat is a compound exercise that mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the hamstrings and core. You'll need: leg press machine.
Required Equipment

Sled Lying Squat Muscles Worked
Primary
Quads (quadriceps femoris); Glutes (gluteus maximus)
Secondary
Hamstrings; Deep Core (transverse abdominis)
Sled Lying Squat Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Sled Lying Squat
Sled Lying Squat Instructions
Padding for comfort.
Positioning:
Lie down on the sled machine's padded surface with your back flat and your head resting against the pad.
Position your feet on the platform or sled base at shoulder-width apart, ensuring your knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle.
Adjust the sled's weight according to your fitness level; beginners should start with minimal weight to focus on form.
Movement:
Grasp the handles of the sled machine firmly.
Engage your core muscles and press through your heels to lift the sled by extending your legs.
Keep your back flat against the pad throughout the movement, avoiding any arching or lifting of the upper body.
As you lift, your knees should not extend past your toes; maintain alignment.
Push the sled upward until your legs are fully extended, but do not lock your knees at the top.
Slowly lower the sled back to the starting position by bending your knees, controlling the descent.
Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions, ensuring to maintain controlled movements throughout the exercise for effectiveness and safety.
Tips:
Keep your movements slow and controlled to avoid injury.
Maintain a neutral spine throughout the exercise.
Focus on your breathing; exhale when pushing up and inhale when lowering down.
Sled Lying Squat FAQs
What muscles does the Sled Lying Squat work?
The Sled Lying Squat mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the hamstrings and core. The main muscles are the quadriceps femoris and gluteus maximus.
What equipment do you need for the Sled Lying Squat?
Leg press machine.
Is the Sled Lying Squat a compound exercise?
Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.
What workout day should the Sled Lying Squat go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Sled Lying Squat variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Sled Power Drag, Sled Power Push, Leg Press and Sled Single-Leg 45-Degree Press.
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