13 Best Leg Press Machines Of 2024 (UK)

If you're looking to add the finishing touches to your home workout station with the best leg press machine, then you have come to the right place. 

Over the duration of 2022, working out at home has become a popular phenomenon, with more people upgrading their home gym apparatus from a couple of free weights, to popular cardio machines and advanced weight stations. Google searches relating to the leg press gym machine and alternatives rocketed over lockdown, with more people purchasing their own home leg press machine.

The leg press gym machine allows a global strength workout that involves almost all the muscles of the legs: hamstrings, quadriceps, and glutes (aka gluteus maximus). In addition, the hip muscles and the core are also activated to stabilize the pelvis during movement.

We have compiled a shortlist of the best home leg press machines in the UK available to purchase so you’ll never have to encounter that inconvenient wait for your turn at the gym.

Before we jump in and begin exploring the best leg press machines in the UK, have you ever thought about pursuing a career in fitness? 

Enquire about OriGym’s Personal Training Diploma or download our full course prospectus for more information.

What is a Leg Press Machine?

The leg press gym machine is among the most popular pieces of gym equipment, commonly used to build the key muscles in your legs. 

You may have heard the leg press gym machine be referred to under the following terms: Machine leg press, squat leg press, seated leg press machine, single leg press machine - they all refer to the same piece of apparatus.

There are two types of leg press machines most commonly found in gyms: the 45-degree leg press (this seated style features a chair that reclines at an angle whilst your legs press upward in a diagonal direction) and the standard horizontal leg press.

For more information, make sure to read our FAQs about the leg press machine at the end of this article, or check out the leg press article just mentioned, where you will find the answers to questions surrouding how to use the home gym leg press machine, and the leg press machine benefits.

#1 Powerline Vertical Leg Press

Price: £525.00 (Currently reduced to £359.00)

If you’re looking to complete your home gym with a leg press machine for cheap, then you may as well conclude your search with item number one on olur list.

This Powerline Machine is probably the most well known on the list, and if you’re a fitness fanatic, likelihood is, you will be more than familiar with it. There are quite a few reasons why this is one of our favourite leg press machines in the UK market. It combines functionality with safety, space efficiency and even a hint of style, which makes it perfect for any home. It’s one of the lower cost options on the list too, so anyone looking for a cheap leg press machine will be extremely satisfied. 

Some leg presses can be uncomfortable, and you risk real damage if they don’t provide adequate, full body support. The vertical leg press machine really excels in this area, and we loved the soft padding and the unrivalled lumbar and neck support. It’s absolutely perfect for working on quads, hamstrings, calves and glutes without putting excess strain on your lower back.

This leg press and hack squat machine will take standard plates straight out of the box, and you can easily upgrade to Olympic disks with the addition of adapter sleeves. The three posts are perfectly spaced for even weight distribution, and nylon brushings make every movement smooth and consistent. Everything is electrostatically coated too, for maximum life and durability.

The Powerline Machine is just an all round strong performer. The frame even comes with an impressive 10 year warranty, which is indicative of how confident Powerline is in the quality of this press. We think it would be great for beginners and experts alike, and since the price tag is reasonable enough not to break the bank, there’s no reason to look anywhere else.

#2 XS Sports Seated Leg Curl & Extension Machine Press

Price: Currently Out of Stock

Rated the best leg press machine for taller users, and those who like to go hard or go home; the Force USA Monster Ultimate Leg Press Machine is rated for up to a massive 1000lbs of weight.

This leg press and hack squat machine is an excellent addition to your home gym. Converting easily to perform hack squats, leg presses, calf raises and more - it provides you all the tools and features to safely build your glutes, hamstrings, calves and quads in the comfort of your own home. The leg press even comes equipped with a calf block for calf-focused workouts.

We specifically mention taller users as the Force USA boasts five racking positions, which allow safe use for persons up to an impressive 7ft; nobody is excluded from the use of this Monster.

This leg press combined hack squat machine uses Olympic weights plates for resistance and glides smoothly on ball-bearing tracks. It comes kitted out with four plate storage horns, as well as additional plate holders beneath the sled for extreme weight.

 In addition, the Force USA Monster has comfortable commercial grade padding and an extra-large footplate that sets this machine apart from the others. With the addition of an adjustable safety catch that allows for five safety lockout positions for maximum security, it gives peace of mind when lifting heavy, knowing you’re at the hands of an elite piece of apparatus.

#3 BH Fitness G152X Global Multi Gym with Leg Press

Price: £1,208.99

If you’re trying to create a home gym on a budget, you may want to consider investing in a multi-gym, such as this one from BH Fitness.

This may not be a cheap leg press machine, but as a multi-tasking piece of kit, it can provide you with a full body workout. So overall, the G152X Global Multi-Gym is great value for money!

As well as being a seated leg press machine, this piece of equipment also has:

• Dip/leg raise stations
• High and low pulleys
• Chest press and pec deck
• Leg developer

It also comes with lat and straight bar attachments, as well as ergonomic upholstery and a fold-up seat for ultimate comfort and convenience. 

With 5 length options and 11 weight increments that generate a huge 100kg resistance, this machine for leg press is fully adjustable. 

This means that it is suitable for a wide range of fitness fanatics, no matter your size or shape.

Finally, if you are unsure on how to put a seated leg press machine together, there is an option to pay for expert assembly, so there’s no need to panic!

#4 Body-Solid Leg Press/Hack Squat Machine

Price: £1,389.00

If you’re looking for an apparatus that combines as a leg press and hack squat machine, then this offering from Body-Solid is for you. 

It might be one of the more expensive leg press exercise machines on the list, but with Body-Solid you get what you pay for. The build quality is, as you might expect, top of the range, and everything on this machine has been specifically engineered for power, safety and comfort.

The quad track roller system is incredibly smooth on this standing leg press machine, so you can exercise without risking your bones and joints.  It also distributes weight evenly, and we think this is probably the silkiest machine that we’ve tested. 

The only standing leg press machine for home use on our list, a special mention has to go to the safety features. 

There are three lockout positions which remain under the user’s control throughout, so you can exercise with peace of mind. 

The back and shoulder pads are exceptionally comfortable too, and contoured perfectly to fit your body. It even comes with Olympic plates, so you can start working out right out of the box.

This 90-degree leg press machine certainly isn’t for the faint hearted, as it’s designed solely with Olympic plates in mind. 

That said, if you’re a workout veteran keen to take their exercise to the next level, and willing to spend a bit of money to do so, then you'll benefit massively from this hack squat leg press machine in your home gym. 

It’s heavy duty, has great build quality, and will help you push yourself to the extreme.

#5 PowerGym Commercial Leg Press Machine

Price: £1399.99

Those looking for a premium, gym-quality leg press machine to include in their home gym have an ideal option with PowerGym's flagship design. It's one of very few options on our list that promises a commercial option for heavy duty equipment, perfect if you're looking to take your home workouts to a whole new level. 

This prestigious pricetag comes with the construction quality to support it, too. It’s made with an exceptionally strong industrial-strength steel frame, normally only reserved for huge-scale projects such as bridges and buidlings, and comes with a ultra-durable, slip resistant footplate for increased security.

You won’t have any problems with instability or sway, and PowerGym has clearly understands their client base, prioritising strength, safetly, and incredibly effective workouts. As a result, their signature leg press has a staggering 1,000lb (or 450kg) capacity, one of the largest leg press machines we've featured on our list.

This intensive machine doesn't compromise on comfort features, though. The handles and backrest are covered in a soft, heavily padded foam (also available in a range of colours) for smooth entrances and exits, as well as a workout in the ultimate luxury. You’ll really feel the support at work - using a leg press machine for bodybuilding and other fitness needs has never been easier and more accessible.

Not to mention the ultra-smooth movements of this leg machine ensures that you'll be working the right muscles, and target the areas you want to target, whether that's glutes, quads or hamstrings. This premium quality commercial leg press machine offers the ultimate option for those at the very peak of their physical fitness.

#6 Powertec Fitness Leg Press

Price: £1,249.00

A somewhat more expensive angled leg press machine, the Powertec Fitness is nonetheless an absolute beast of a machine, and if you’re willing to spend a little extra to elevate your workout to the next level, then it’s definitely worth considering. 

It’s the most technologically advanced leg press weight machine on the list, and it comes with loads of innovative features:

• The brand new high tensile strength footplate delivers unrivalled support. 
• The updated roller system incorporates nylon reinforced wheels for smooth, resistance free movements. 
• Bending tubes in the weight horns make for a much more efficient design, and an adjusted wheel position promises greater stability.

This seated leg press machine for home use is safer than ever before too, with safety lock levers located on either side of the machine so that you can exercise with peace of mind. 

The weight capacity gets a boost, up to a very impressive 1000 lb, plus the machine can take Olympic plates.

Powertec has worked hard to update this machine and keep pushing the boundaries of what exercise equipment can deliver. 

Beginners will love the many features and the accompanying app, while veterans will benefit from the higher-than-average weight capacity and the option to add Olympic plates.

It’s certainly the best home leg press machine for those whose budgets can stretch that bit further, and it would make the perfect centrepiece for any home gym. 

Since it comes with all the latest technology, it represents a long-term investment that won’t become outdated any time soon.

#7 Nautilus Plate Loaded Angled Leg Press

Price: £3,695

Another excellent plate loaded leg press machine, the Nautilus series comes fully loaded, so it’s ready to use right out of the box. Throw in some of the best in class build quality, fantastic safety features and incredibly smooth carriage shafts, and you’ve got a machine that’s a genuine pleasure to use.

Nautilus' angled leg press machine benefits from a 45 degree angled seat, which can be adjusted into three different positions for optimum support and comfort. Four footplate carriage weight horns make it easy to load and unload plates, so you can cut straight to your workout without any undue hassle.

The lift quality is very, very smooth. The Nautilus Series decline leg press machine comes with commercial linear bearings and dual rotating carriage stops. This makes every action seamless and comfortable, so you can maximise gains without risking damage. We loved the unmatched, adjustable back support in particular, which offers unprecedented support and makes this inverted leg press machine suitable for users of any size

The rubber feet are non-stick too, and due to its size you’re guaranteed full foot contact. Along similar lines, Nautilus should be commended for just how safe this machine actually is. The safety stops are visible and reachable from the exercise position, so you’ll always know that you’re exercising safely. A four position fail-safe stop adds another layer of security, and since the build quality is so high there are never any issues with sway or instability. 

All in all, the Nautilus Series does a lot of things right, and nothing wrong. If you’re looking for a smooth lift, then this might just be the machine for you.

#8 Body-Solid LVLP Commercial Leg Press

Price: £2921.00

Despite being one of the largest and most expensive pieces of equipment on the list, the LVP nonetheless deserves its place as the highest quality commercial leg press machine available anywhere in the world. Everything about it is premium, from the built quality to the safety features and the unparalleled support.

Not everybody is willing or even capable of making an investment like this, but if you want to take the plunge, the LVP decline leg press machine comes with a plethora of attractive features. The frame is constructed from robust 2”x3” 11 gauge steel, which is incredibly strong and will last for many, many years. It’s electrostatically coated for added durability. Even the upholstery is double stitched.

Elsewhere, the direct drive press system is one of the best on the market and delivers unparalleled accuracy and weight resistance. The footplate is huge and it pivots, helping you maintain optimum foot position during exercises. It’s easy to adjust too, and can accommodate a wide range of positions.

More often than not, an at home leg press machine can have the reputation of being hard on the back, but that certainly isn't the case here. The back support is fully adjustable, and we think it’s some of the most comfortable you’ll find. It ensures perfect alignment, so you’ll be protecting yourself from damage.

The LVP almost certainly isn’t for anyone prioritising a budget-friendly machine, but if you’re after a top of the range piece of equipment that can be used in a commercial setting, then there’s no need to look any further.

#9 Husky Hip and Leg Sled by Yukon Fitness

Price: £1315.00 (+ import fees)

Another expensive addition, the Husky Hip nonetheless distinguishes itself due to the sheer number of exercises you can perform, making it a truly universal leg press machine. Leg presses are simply executed, but you can use the Husk Hip to workout your entire body, and Yukon claims it’s the most stable leg press in the industry. 

With build quality this high it’s difficult to argue. The four heavy duty rollers make every left exceptionally smooth, and it’s quiet too, without any of the creaks and groans common to other machines. There’s a new safety spotter arm, and padding is to a commercial standard. We think the Husky Hip offers the perfect blend of versatility, comfort and safety.

Sadly, weights aren’t included, and having to buy them separately pushes the cost yet higher, but the machine is space efficient. Plates are loaded from underneath, which saves an extra few inches. It probably won’t fit in your living room, but it would be right at home in a garage, spare room, or as part of a wider home gym setup.

When exercising out at home, it is still vital you finish each workout with a thorough cool down and stretch to return your heart rate close to resting. 

The price tag of the Yukon Fitness machine might put many off, but if you want to vary your workouts and don’t mind making a long term investment, the Husky Hip is definitely worth a look. It leads the way in a lot of areas including stability and smoothness, and the extra padding adds some much needed comfort for longer workouts.

If you're enthusiastic about exploring opportunities in the fitness industry, you can look into highly-paid fitness careers within this field.

#10 BodyMax CF800 Leg Press and Hack Squat Machine

Price: £1,199.00 (Currently reduced to £999.00)

Looking for a leg press and hack squat machine in one? The BodyMax CF800 would be our recommendation!

This is the best home leg press machine for those looking to perform 2 exercises without the hassle of switching between 2 different machines. 

As well as helping you to save money, the BodyMax CF800 Leg Press and Hack Squat Machine has a quick system for switching between the 2 movements, so saves you time too!

Investing in a high-angled leg press machine such as this one allows users to make the best of a small workout space, meaning that it is good for any commercial gym, small training studio, or even a home gym.

One of the best features of this piece of equipment is its impressive 454kg weight capacity, with two loading pins which can accommodate Olympic size weights.

With conveniently placed weight pins on either side of the rack for storage, this machine also allows you to keep your training area tidy and clutter free at all times.

So, if you’re looking for an angled leg press machine with multiple adjustment options for leg length, this BodyMax CF800 could be the perfect one for you.

#11 Panatta Horizontal Leg Press

Price: Available Upon Request

If a 90 degree leg press machine is more specific to what you’re looking for, don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about you.

There are a lot of advantages to choosing a horizontal leg press machine. Since you’ll be lying more or less flat, your back remains relaxed throughout, and is therefore unlikely to suffer any undue strain. They’re also slightly easier to use, especially if you have mobility issues and struggle with the more cumbersome vertical presses. This style of machine is also a safe option to utilise as a single leg press machine.

Fortunately, Panatta has built a lying leg press machine that’s absolutely perfect for individuals of any level. It’s proof, too, that simplicity is sometimes best, and the machine excels by keeping things basic. A magnetic pin is used to select the load, and the carriage is adjustable to suit individual sizes and needs.

Beginners will love the illustrative chart that comes with the machine, and it’s a brilliant way to get started if you haven’t used a horizontal leg press machine before. The foot rest is particularly wide, and you can adjust the start position too.

We loved the style of this 90 degree leg press machine. The weight stack comes in a transparent polycarbonate case with a somewhat futuristic look, and the seat and handles are embellished in striking silver. It’s all about clean lines and ergonomic design. While it might not be suitable for those looking for a small leg press machine, it’s certainly one of the best looking, and we think it could fit quite easily into most household gyms or commercial settings.

All in all, if you’re searching for a solid machine that does the basics well and is suitable for beginners, then we think the Panatta is perfect for you!

#12 BodyCraft F660 3-in-1 Adjustable Leg Press, Hack Squat & Hip Sled

Price: £1,999.00

This Bodycraft F660 is the best machine for leg press, hack squat, and even hip sled!

If you’re looking for a leg press machine that’s a little unique, this model has an exclusive donkey squat and calf raise pad. This makes it extremely multifunctional, allowing users to perform a variety of exercises such as squats and calf raises.

Although this certainly isn’t a cheap leg press machine, its high-quality, heavy-duty design makes it extremely cost efficient. 

From the industrial grade linear bearings, to the heavy gauge steel, the machine has been built with durability in mind. 

It has also been built to the same specifications as a full-blown club use leg press exercise machine, yet has features which make it an efficient and compact size.

For instance, the squat shoulder pads are adjustable, which means that the machine accommodates a wide range of users. These pads also use double stitched heavy-duty upholstery and high-density foam, for ultimate comfort.

As well as the hack squat plate, the upper- and lower-foot plates can be adjusted to several different angles to accommodate different size users.

With use up to 1000 pounds, this is another great leg press and hack squat machine option on the market.

#13 Phoenix Fitness Seated Leg Press Machine

Price: £2,699.99

Another great seated leg press machine is this one from Phoenix Fitness.

Firstly, this is because it has been built with quality construction:

• The pulley system is designed with a high-quality PA one-time injection moulding
• There are high quality bearings inside
• It has a smooth rotation
• Makes no noise during use

The surface of the cushion on this horizontal leg press machine is made of a microfibre leather fabric, which is waterproof and wear-resistant, as well as durable and long lasting.

With an impressive maximum weight stack of 115kg, this machine also comes with a peg weight selection rack next to the fixed seat, and a non-slip platform for safety and peace of mind whilst you train.

A bonus feature of this leg press machine is that it comes with free delivery within 100 miles of Leicestershire, as well as free in-home equipment built by a member of the Phoenix Fitness team.

Whether you’re looking for the best home leg press machine, or something for a more commercial environment, we would highly recommend considering this model from Phoenix Fitness.

FAQs

What Muscles Does the Leg Press Machine Work?

If you’re still wondering ‘what does the leg press machine do?’, as we briefly mentioned, the leg press weight machine primarily works your quads, alongside your hamstrings (the muscles opposite your quadriceps - at the back of your thighs) and your glutes (the muscles in your buttocks). 

How Much Does a Leg Press Machine Weigh?

Though this can vary brand to brand, a standard leg press gym machine generally has a starting sled weight of around 75lbs/34KG. 

If you’re looking for the weight of the apparatus as a whole, again, this is something that will depend on the brand, the style and size of the leg press weight machine. For instance, the TDS Mini Leg Press weighs in at 102.06KG, whereas the XMark XM-7616 Commercial Machine weighs approximately 454KG.

Which Leg Press Machine is Better? 

When it comes to comparing the horizontal/vertical leg press to the 45 degree seated leg press machine, there is no right or wrong answer as they all achieve the same end goal and work the same muscle groups; it simply comes down to which apparatus you prefer to carry out your training on. The only factor to set these machines apart is the risks that come along with them, which we will touch on below.

What are the Risks of the Leg Press Machine?

One of the most commonly encountered risks that comes attached to the use of a horizontal/90 degree leg press machine is the user rounding their lower back when pushing ejecting their legs. This is often done when a person is attempting to press either too much or too little weight and can lead to pulling the muscles in the lower back. It is important to note, as you straighten your legs, you should maintain a neutral spine by avoiding flattening your back against the support pad and keep your neck relaxed. 

When using a leg press, with particular focus on the horizontal leg press machine, it is recommended for users to adjust the back and seat of the machine to allow yourself a full range of motion so your waist doesn't bend.

If you feel more comfortable using the 45-degree leg press machine and the vertical leg press, both of these machines reduce the risk of injury compared to other leg machines significantly. This is due to the burden of the weight being completely assumed by the legs - the back is in a stabilizing position and at minimal risk of encountering any damage.

Finally, you risk injuring your knees if attempting to press too much weight or lock your knees when extending your legs. It can feel impulsive to want to ‘finish’ the movement by locking out your knees when pushing the weight away from you, however, this would be incorrect and in fact exposing yourself to potential damage, including damage to your ACL. This risk is easy to avoid by controlling the movement and not extending your legs completely out straight, but enough to work the intended muscles.

Before You Go!

And that concludes our best leg press machine reviews guide. We hope this has been an insightful article that has provided you with all the information you need to make your decision of which leg press machine to buy.

We understand how working out at home and having advanced apparatus on your doorstep, particularly in the current climate, can be much more beneficial, however, we do feel we need to emphasise how important it is to take all the correct measures to ensure your safety. 

When working out at home, you’re not benefiting from the support and guidance that comes with the trained experts in gym environments, so prior to purchasing any machines or upgrading your home gym, we would encourage you to read up on safety precautions and the potential risks.

Before you exit the page - if you want to start a career in health and fitness, why not take a look at our L3 PT Diploma and download our prospectus for more information!