10 Strength Training Exercises for Strong Legs
10 Strength Training Exercises for Strong Legs
Looking for strong toned legs? Here are some awesome strength training exercises for strong legs you can do on leg day or any day!
I am a fan of strong sculpted legs. There are so many exercise that you can do for your body. However, when you are focused on getting strong legs you need to know the right workouts for amazing stems. I’ve put together a list of the most effective leg day exercises for you, a lot you might know and a some you may not.
Since the quadriceps are one of the largest muscle groups of the body they tend to burn the most calories! There are so many ways to work your legs but these are my top 10 favorite leg exercises. Some of these are advanced and some are beginner, You can choose to do one, or do all! Let me know which ones you try for the first time or which ones are long time favorites!
Check them out!
1) Bulgarian Split Squat:
2) Leg Curls with Resistance Bands
3) Forward Lunges with Dumbbells
4) Sumo Squats with Leg Lifts
5) Leg Lifts
6) Lying Leg Press
7) Side Lunge to A Curtsy Lunge
8) Reverse lunges
8) Calf Raises with Dumbbels
9) Squat Jumps
10) Step Ups
Developing leg strength is crucial not just for athletes, but also for general fitness enthusiasts, as it forms the base for most of our body’s movements. It can also help in maintaining good posture and balance. Below, we have detailed some of the best strength training exercises that target your legs for improved power and endurance.
1. Squats: Squats are the quintessential lower body exercise. They target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, and also engage your core and lower back. Squats can be performed with or without weights, depending on your fitness level.
2. Lunges: Lunges work your quads, glutes, and hamstrings, with an emphasis on the quads. You can perform lunges in place, walking lunges, or even incorporate dumbbells for increased resistance.
3. Deadlifts: While deadlifts are often thought of as a back exercise, they are great for the lower body too. They target your hamstrings, glutes, lower back, and even your core. Proper form is critical when doing deadlifts to avoid injury.
4. Calf Raises: A simple yet effective exercise for strengthening and toning the calves. You can perform calf raises using only your body weight, or add dumbbells for added resistance. For a more challenging variant, try single-leg calf raises.
5. Bulgarian Split Squats: This is a squat variation where one foot is elevated behind you. Bulgarian split squats primarily target the quads, but also work your glutes, hamstrings, and calves. This exercise also challenges your balance and stability.
6. Glute Bridges: While the name implies that this exercise is for the glutes, it also works your hamstrings and core. For added resistance, you can perform this exercise with a weight across your hips or try a single-leg version.
7. Leg Press: Performed using a leg press machine, this exercise targets the quads, glutes, and hamstrings. The leg press allows you to use heavier weights compared to squats and lunges, without the extra pressure on your back.
8. Box Jumps: Box jumps are a plyometric exercise that strengthens your quads, hamstrings, and glutes, while also improving explosive power and coordination. Start with a low box and gradually increase the height as you become more comfortable.
9. Hamstring Curls: This exercise targets the hamstrings and can be done using a gym machine or at home with a resistance band.
Incorporating these exercises into your regular strength training routine can help you build stronger, more powerful legs. Remember, it’s important to maintain proper form to prevent injury and reap the maximum benefits. Also, ensure you give your muscles adequate rest and recovery time to adapt and grow stronger. As always, consult with a fitness professional if you’re new to strength training to ensure the exercises are appropriate for your fitness level and goals. Happy training!
What are your favorite leg workouts?
Check out these fitness posts before you go!
- Get Everyone Active With This Family Fitness Free Printable
- 6 Must Have Treadmill Workouts For Runners
- How to Get Yourself to Workout When You REALLY Don’t Want To
- 4 Sneaky Ways To Get In Body Weight Training
Hi! I’m Nellie. I am an entrepreneur, a busy mama of 3 and a wife to my high school sweetheart. I have been sharing content for over 12 years about how to cook easy recipes, workout tips and free printables that make life a little bit easier. I have been featured in places like Yahoo, Buzzfeed, What To Expect, Mediavine, Niche Pursuits, HuffPost, BabyCenter, Mom 2.0, Mommy Nearest, Parade, Care.com, and more!
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Im woman enough to admit my booty is CRYING OUT fer lunges.
Great compilation. I’m especially loving the sumo squats and leg lifts. The leg lifts take me back to my ballet dancing days at the barre. Just stand towards the back of a chair and use it to help you balance with the leg lifts.
Yep. All of these!!! I do so many of these exercises as part of my strength training and those split squats – ouch!! Keep those legs strong for all.the.miles!
I’m going to try all of these. Because…did you see Serena??? I’m like..I have got to get me some of those. LOL
I can almost feel the burn. My legs are just.. not that nice. Not my best body part for sure. They could use a little sun and a lot of strength!
I am definitely going to add some of them to my exercise schedule. I have been practicing Yoga for quite sometime and was looking for some good exercises for legs as well thus this post is indeed very useful for me.
Thanks.