Quads · Machines and cables

Cable and machine quad exercises

8 exercises from the diary's catalog, all with photos. Below are the list and a sample quad workout: compounds first, then isolation.

8 exercises

Leg PressLeg PressMachines and cablesLeg ExtensionLeg ExtensionMachines and cablesHack SquatHack SquatMachines and cablesSmith Machine SquatSmith Machine SquatMachines and cables
Narrow-Stance Leg PressNarrow-Stance Leg PressMachines and cables
Smith Machine Split SquatSmith Machine Split SquatMachines and cables
Single-Leg Leg ExtensionSingle-Leg Leg ExtensionMachines and cables
Narrow-Stance Hack Squat MachineNarrow-Stance Hack Squat MachineMachines and cables

Sample workout

Templatequad workout

Four exercises from the list: compounds first, then isolation. It's a template for one day; how many sets a muscle needs per week is in the volume guide, and how to progress is in the progressive overload guide.

Why machines and cables

A machine sets the path, and a cable keeps tension where a dumbbell goes slack — at the bottom of a raise or the top of a fly. There's nothing to stabilise, so you can safely take sets close to failure without a spotter, and changing the weight is moving a pin. For a beginner, machine quad exercises are the easiest way in.

The downsides: a machine is built for an average person — adjust the seat and handles to fit you — and machines that look identical weigh differently from gym to gym. Only compare your numbers on the same machine.

Log your workouts — I'll show how many sets a week you give this group.

Read next