Sled Full Hack Squat

Instructions

1
Sit on the leg press machine with your back and head resting firmly against the padded support. Position your feet on the platform about shoulder-width apart with toes pointing slightly outward. Ensure your lower back remains in contact with the seat throughout the exercise.
2
Place your hands on the handles on either side for stability and support. Your feet should be positioned so that your knees are at approximately 90 degrees in the starting position. Grip the handles lightly without pulling excessively.
3
Slowly lower the weight by bending your knees, allowing them to descend toward your chest in a controlled manner. Continue lowering until your knees reach approximately 90 degrees of flexion, ensuring your lower back does not round off the seat. The eccentric phase should take 2-3 seconds.
4
Drive through your midfoot and heel to extend your legs, pushing the platform away from your body. Return to the starting position by straightening your knees, but do not lock them out completely at the top. The concentric phase should be explosive and controlled, lasting 1-2 seconds.

PRIMARY MUSCLESQuadriceps
SECONDARY MUSCLESGluteus Maximus, Hamstrings, Adductor Magnus, Gastrocnemius
EQUIPMENTSled machine
DIFFICULTYBeginner

Overview

If you want to isolate and overload the Quadriceps, the Sled Full Hack Squat is an excellent addition to your routine. The mechanics of this Strength exercise specifically bias the Thighs, while the use of Sled machine allows for a smooth, natural resistance curve.

Benefits

  • Significantly enhances the structural integrity and power of the Quadriceps.
  • Acts as a highly scalable Strength movement, perfect for both beginners and elite athletes.
  • Utilizes Sled machine to create sustained mechanical tension, forcing deep muscle adaptation.
  • Promotes balanced muscular development by effectively recruiting the Quadriceps and associated synergists.
  • Improves overall Thighs stability and proprioception during heavy loads.

Pro Tips

Control the eccentric (lowering) phase of the Sled Full Hack Squat for 3-4 seconds to drastically increase time under tension.

Muscle Anatomy

The primary driver is the Quadriceps. However, the movement also recruits Gluteus Maximus, Hamstrings, Adductor Magnus, Gastrocnemius to maintain control of the Sled machine.

Exercise Variations

  • Dumbbell Sled Full Hack Squat
  • Cable Sled Full Hack Squat
  • Banded Sled Full Hack Squat

Frequently Asked Questions