Leg extensions & curls for speed and power ?????

[mrick40]

Do leg extensions and curls have any affect on speed and power or are they just primarily for bodybuilding?

[krakkerz]

I say bodybuilding, although curls perhaps have greater application and extensions might be used for knee rehab.

[jonmd123]

Do leg extensions and curls have any affect on speed and power or are they just primarily for bodybuilding?

No place in athletics.

Some may argue they can be used for rehab, but I would disagree pretty strongly on that. The only except would be post surgery.

[blitz042000]

No place in athletics.

Some may argue they can be used for rehab, but I would disagree pretty strongly on that. The only except would be post surgery.

I almost agree but... They also have some application in injury prevention. That being said I would rather see athletes doing lunges so they are getting solid quad and glute development at the same time

[jonmd123]

I almost agree but... They also have some application in injury prevention. That being said I would rather see athletes doing lunges so they are getting solid quad and glute development at the same time

Maybe in some very rare cases, but I would argue that these exercises actually increase the likelihood of injury.

[DCSpartan]

leg curls are good for the hamstrings, and wont cause sheer force on the knee like lunges.

[mlift11]

I say bodybuilding, although curls perhaps have greater application and extensions might be used for knee rehab.

I know it's a machine, but how would strengthening the hams not going to help speed?

[krakkerz]

I know it's a machine, but how would strengthening the hams not going to help speed?

See where I said curls have greater application? That's what I meant. We prefer GHRs, though. Most people I know do.

[jonmcd46]

Instead of using the machine use resistance bands or one of those huge balls. Focus on speed and acceleration more than power and lifting heavy. If you do use machines, extend as fast as you can, and slowly return to the start position, and right when you do explosively extend again and repeat for the sets.