This exercise works several muscle groups of the lower body while toning and strengthening.  The plie position on the leg press strengthens the quadriceps (muscles in front of the upper leg), hip adductors (inner thigh) and hamstrings (muscles in back of the upper leg), as well as the buttocks. Hip abductors (outer thigh) work as stabilizers.

• Place weights on either side of the leg press station.  Pick a weight that is challenging that you can push with perfect form for 12-15 repetitions.
• Sit in station with head and back against pad.  Place feet towards lower portion of plate, slightly wider than hip width, with toes turned out at a 45-degree angle in a plie position, legs slightly bent at knee (not locked).
• Release lock on the station while keeping weight on heels to begin lowering weight.
• Bend legs until knees are vertically aligned with hips, and in line with ankles.
• Slowly push the foot plate while contracting the buttocks as you press the plate away for you, and extend legs without locking them.
• Slowly return to starting position.
• Repeat up to 3 sets of 12-15 repetitions.
• Remember to lock station before taking feet off the foot plate.

Tip:  When you place your feet on the plate, rotate your legs out from your hips rather than trying to turn your feet out from your ankles; this will help ensure that your ankles, knees and hips stay in alignment.