4 risers for leg presses

[taterkc]

Does anyone else use just 4 risers for leg presses (most times in the DVDs they all use 5)? My legs can handle it just fine but my heart rate raises too much with 5. I hate to cheat my leg workout but it's much more aerobically "comfortable" with 4. I'm only 5'2 and short legged so maybe that has something to do with it Just wondering!

 

[serene_46]

I think you are smart to use whatever gives you the workout you need. In some of the STS leg workouts Cathe and crew use 4 risers for the leg presses, so I wouldn't fret about a few inches!!

 

[ebonynicole]

Well you are doing better than me, I'm 5'7 and right now I can only handle 3 risers for leg press. I agree with Serene that you should use whatever feels good to you, I cannot do 5 risers, maybe down the road but not right now.

 

[Denise R]

I use 4 risers, am 5 foot 3 inches tall, and feel it works my legs/glutes effectively.

 

[JeanneMarie]

I use 5, but I am taller than you at 5'7".

I agree that you should use what is comfortable for you. It certainly won't make any difference in your fitness level to be using just 2 less inches.

 

[DirtDiva]

I use 4 and I'm 5'9", I use more weight in my hands to compensate or I sink lower. I think 4 at your height is right-on.

 

[JennieR]

I'm 5'6 and only use 2 risers. My HR sky rockets doing leg presses and by using 2 risers I find I can keep my form better. I say, do what's best for you.

 

[maddiesmum]

I am 5' 8" and use 6 risers because I am looking for that 90 degree angle of the knee when foot is placed on the step. I want to make sure that I am doing the exercise accurately and targetting the correct muscles.

For me, step ups never happen without a cardio effect, so I use the 6 risers and have to embrace that increase in heart rate.

However, when de-conditioned and starting back to exercise, I may use just 5 risers to limit that cardio effect. It all depends.

However, you are right to choose the step height that gets you the effect you want: lower height to use a heavier weight. You should never compare yourself to what Cathe and crew are doing: they lead by example only.

Clare

 

[Stephanie0523]

I'm 5'2" have tried 5 risers, but it was VERY difficult. I was huffing and puffing... Given, I HATE, LOATHE and DESPISE leg presses with a purple passion... I use only 4 risers when I do do them.

 

[JennieR]

Given, I HATE, LOATHE and DESPISE leg presses with a purple passion...

You and me both.