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§ L · Exercises · QuadricepsUpdated 6/2026

Lever Squat (plate loaded)

The plate-loaded lever squat allows for heavier squats with more support than free weights and emphasizes the quadriceps.

Muscle group
Quadriceps
Equipment
Machine
Exercise type
Compound
Technique
Basic technique

Muscles worked

§ 01 · Muscles
Primary muscle
Quadriceps
Supporting muscles
GlutesLower BackHamstrings

How to perform

§ 02 · Steps
  1. 01

    Adjust the lever squat machine to fit you and load it with weight plates. Stand on the footplate with your feet about shoulder-width apart.

  2. 02

    Position yourself under the shoulder pads and grip the handles. Pull your shoulder blades back and down, and brace your core.

  3. 03

    Lower yourself into a squat under control by bending your knees and hips. Keep your chest up and your knees tracking in line with your toes.

  4. 04

    Drive through the footplate and stand up, emphasizing your heels. Squeeze your quadriceps at the top, but do not forcefully lock your knees.

How to get started at the gym

§ 03 · SisuLift

Lever Squat (plate loaded) is ready to go in the SisuLift exercise library. The app builds you a program, suggests starting weights and shows this same animation during your workout at the gym.

  • ·A ready training program based on your goal
  • ·Starting weight suggestions and automatic progression
  • ·Set logging and rest timer at the gym
Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
SisuLift app workout view

Tips

§ 04 · Tips

Keep your entire foot in contact with the footplate throughout the repetition and avoid lifting your heels. Adjust your foot position to achieve a pain-free range of motion and keep your knees under control.

The plate-loaded lever squat allows for heavier squats with more support than free weights and emphasizes the quadriceps.

More exercises: Quadriceps

§ 05 · Same muscles

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