Single Leg Lying Leg Curl (Machine)

The Single Leg Lying Leg Curl is a machine-based isolation exercise that targets the hamstrings individually to correct muscle imbalances. By lying face down and curling the weight with one leg, you engage the posterior chain while minimizing stress on the lower back.

How Iridium Helps

Since this is a unilateral exercise, the AI analyzes performance data to detect strength discrepancies between your left and right hamstrings, automatically adjusting load recommendations to correct imbalances. Additionally, by monitoring your recovery status and recent running or leg volume, the AI regulates intensity to prevent strain in this fatigue-prone muscle group.

Form Cues

Do
  • Press your hips firmly into the pad throughout the set
  • Curl the heel towards your glutes until you feel a strong contraction
  • Lower the weight slowly over 2-3 seconds
  • Keep your non-working leg relaxed and stable
  • Pause briefly at the top of the movement
Don't
  • Don't let your hips lift off the bench
  • Don't use momentum to swing the weight up
  • Don't hyperextend your lower back
  • Don't let the weight stack slam down between reps

Common Mistakes

  • Lifting hips off the pad
  • Using excessive momentum
  • Incomplete range of motion
  • Misaligning the knee with the machine pivot
  • Rushing the lowering phase

Muscles Worked

This exercise primarily isolates the hamstrings (biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus) through knee flexion. The glutes and calves act as secondary stabilizers, helping to anchor the pelvis and maintain proper leg alignment during the movement.

Primary

Hamstrings

Secondary

Glutes

Get Personalized Coaching for Single Leg Lying Leg Curl (Machine)

Don't guess your way through weights or workouts. Download Iridium for automatic, AI-powered coaching that adapts to your recovery and goals.

Coming SoonLearn More