ME Leg Presses: Cathe wt way too light?

[Soosan]

I know that Cathe uses considerably lighter weight than she normally would on this video, but why does she only use 10 lbs total for leg presses? I either match her weight or lift lighter on most of the exercises, but for leg presses, I more than double what she lifts. (Maybe it's from years of Firming with those endless leg presses.) What does everyone else lift? I feel like my form is fine; should I lift lighter for some reason of which I'm not aware?

 

[Debra L]

During the first set of leg presses, Cathe mentions they're going light because she wants to emphasize good form. She urges people to go heavier once they have the form down. It sounds like you're ready for the heavier weight!

Debra

 

[EricaH]

I use lighter weights than usual with ME because I use a higher stool and I can't keep up with a heavier weight. If you feel like your form is ok, then I definitely think you should use weights that are challenging for you!

Erica

 

[susanz]

I agree,I too use a taller step than Cathe so I hold a 12# dumbbell and sometimes even use no weight to really squeeze the right muscles. My stool is about 17".Susan

 

[kathym]

I use different step heights but generally try to stay within the guidelines. In the last Paula Z - Paula's pointers she mentioned:

you should choose a height that works for your leg length. To avoid straining the knee joint, the knee of the "loaded" leg should form a right angle when you place that foot on the step. In other words, your hip joint should be level with or higher than your knee.

I really enjoy reading her pointers along with the reviews. This month she reviewed Muscle Endurance.

However... back to the question...
I think I would stay within the step height guidelines and up the weight if you feel it is too light.

 

[SteppingFool]

Kathryn,

What is Paula Z? Is it on line? TIA!

 

[kathym]

Paula Z does exercise video reviews. She puts out a newsletter each month reviewing new videos. You can read old reviews on her site or sign up for the newsletters. She does good reviews with great form pointers.

The URL is:
http://www.exercisevideosreviews.com/

This month she reviewed:
Cardio Cut FX
Cathe - Muscle Endurance
FitPrime - Steamin' Cardio
Kathy Smith - Pilates for Lower Body