hamstring exercises and cramps

[Benj]

I understand that leg curls are one of the major exercises for the hamstrings. The problem is that I often get cramps when doing leg curls, if I move the weight down, then it'll be too easy for me, move the weight up and I get cramps at around 6 or 8 reps. What other exercises can you recommend? Or what possible solution is there for the cramps?

[goliath23]

you can do stiff leg deads, sumo leg press. is it all leg curls that give you cramps, lying, seated and standing.

[In-Human]

I understand that leg curls are one of the major exercises for the hamstrings. The problem is that I often get cramps when doing leg curls, if I move the weight down, then it'll be too easy for me, move the weight up and I get cramps at around 6 or 8 reps. What other exercises can you recommend? Or what possible solution is there for the cramps?

You may have an Electrolyte problem, Potassium and minerals and more water, less Sodium, I used to cramp constantly til I upped my water big time...

[TheLil'Missus]

You may have an Electrolyte problem, Potassium and minerals and more water, less Sodium, I used to cramp constantly til I upped my water big time...

I hadn't thought about it, but I've upped my water intake and don't have the leg cramps anymore either. They just kind of disappeared. Huh!

[Benj]

Nothing wrong with my water intake I am sure. I have been doing lying leg curls ever since, the gym I go to doesn't have machines for seated and standing leg curl. Maybe I can ask one of the trainers to improvise a bit for me to be able to do the seated and standing.

[Shatter]

Could someone please show me an image or give a description of the proper form for hamstrings on the leg press machine?

I'm pretty sure Dante has posted it somewhere, but I have no idea where to look.

[Pr0nDog]

inadequate intake of magnesium could be the problem

[berkshirebody]

Could someone please show me an image or give a description of the proper form for hamstrings on the leg press machine?


go high and wide with toes about 3-4 inches off the sled platform--range of motion should be like 12 inches

[Shivan]

BerkshireBody got it, keep your stance wide, with your toes about 3 inches off of the platform. you want to push with your heels, and it helps to mentally think of your toes pointing towards your shins. keep your ass on the pad though, don't curve your back, stay straight. keep your hands on those side holds though, for support to keep your back straight.

[In-Human]

Could someone please show me an image or give a description of the proper form for hamstrings on the leg press machine?

I'm pretty sure Dante has posted it somewhere, but I have no idea where to look.

For Sumo Presses you must have the right Leg Press platform, it will not work on all Sleds, as Shiv explained...

[Shatter]

Cheers, much appreciated guys.

Unfortunately I maxed out the hamstring machine at our gym, which only goes to an insanely small amount, considering how weak my legs are.

I'll give the leg press machine a go.