Buying Guide to Leg Press Machines
Leg press machines are great for developing strength and definition in your legs. Further, they offer an excellent alternative to squats for those with knee or back problems. However, buying a leg press machine can be confusing for the novice consumer looking for exercise equipment. Here are some things to consider when purchasing a leg press machine.
Some Different Kinds of Leg Press Machines and Their Features (only use exercise equipment after speaking with your doctor about it)
Vertical Leg Press Machines- As for the basics of movement, the name tells the story. Vertical Leg Press machines involve lying flat on your back (or close to it) and pushing weight straight up.
The Positives- Generally, vertical leg press machines are the cheapest of the leg press pieces, though some seated upright leg press machines (see next) do compete well with them in terms of price (expect to pay in the 200’s for a new vertical leg press machine). They also tend to take up less space as they start at ground level and go straight up in the air.
The Negatives- They tend to hold less weight than 45 degree leg press machines. Further, if you have a bad neck or back, they may not be for you. Oftentimes lifters with these ailments complain about how vertical machines make their back/ neck areas feel.
Seated Upright Leg Press Machines- Generally, these leg press machines involve a straighter push from a seated upright position. For the most part you sit upright or close to upright and then push pedals (or a metal block) away from your body (could be attached to cables or free weights). These machines are sometimes attached to other equipment, such as in home gyms.
The Positives- They oftentimes attach to existing equipment, thereby taking up little space. They can also be quite inexpensive when purchased as a part of less expensive machines. However, the price can escalate depending on the machine, especially when they are stand alone pieces of equipment (without a home gym attached).
The Negatives- Many of the less expensive versions of these seated upright/ straighter push machines are not very good in my opinion. Further, many users tend to report feeling pressure on their knee joints, particularly on versions that allow less angle for pushing.
45 Degree Leg Press Machines- Most of the time, this refers to a Hack Squat/ Leg Press Machine, but not always (there are mini- leg press machines out there that do not have the option of a hack squat).
The Positives- By most reports, these are the most comfortable of all the leg press machines (they don’t put a ton of strain on your joints and back). They also tend to hold the most weight, though some seated upright leg press machines do rival the smaller 45 degree versions. Further, most 45 degree leg press machines offer the option of a hack squat (though not all as was mentioned earlier).
The Negatives- They tend to take up more space than any other leg press machine or attachment (not more than an entire home gym, but more than any single leg press piece). Also, they tend to be the most expensive of the leg press equipment.
Searching and Buying Information
First be sure to try out the different leg press machines in order to determine which one you want. Some of the negatives listed above- knee or back pain- may not occur as written for you. This article speaks of tendencies that may or may not be true for the you and the piece of equipment you’re considering. Therefore, it is imperative that you try some of the aforementioned out at a gym or store. Even the above definitions for leg press equipment can overlap to an extent.
A great way to purchase any type of exercise equipment is through Ebay (www.ebay.com). Punch in leg press machines and then start looking. Some things to consider are price including shipping, weight capacity (how much do you want your machine to allow you to lift?), warranty, and dimensions. If any of this isn’t listed, then ask the seller a question (you’ll need to have an Ebay account to do all of this, but it’s free to sign up). Also keep in mind that oftentimes you’ll be required to take the equipment off of the truck on the road in front of your house (curbside delivery). This may be quite difficult as leg press pieces can be very heavy, so plan accordingly (and have a friend there to help you if this is the case). Always ask sellers about shipping procedures before buying.
You can also buy used leg press equipment on Ebay for much less than you’d pay for a new machine, although this will usually require you to pick it up. So, you’ll need to pay careful attention to where sellers live.
Last, some sellers take Paypal Buyer Credit, which may allow no interest payments. If you have a Paypal account (www.paypal.com) or want one- it’s free- then that may help out with cost. Ask the seller if they don’t specify if this is an option.
Other Buying Options
If you don’t want to purchase exercise equipment on the internet, meander over to your nearest exercise equipment store. Or, if you’re okay with used equipment, check out the classified section of your local newspaper or call a nearby gym (they’re often looking to sell used equipment).
In Sum
Leg press machines are a great way to tone legs and improve leg strength. Each kind of leg press machine- vertical, 45 degree, and seated upright- have pros and cons. Consider Ebay when buying a leg press machine or exercise equipment as this auction site brings everything right to your fingertips. However, there are also other options, including local stores that sell exercise equipment, local gyms, and the classified section of your local newspaper.
