The Claim
For untrained adults, performing the multi-joint leg press exercise at 70% of one-repetition maximum for 5 sets of 10 repetitions, two times per week over 12 weeks, may be more time-efficient for promoting overall lower-limb muscle hypertrophy compared to the single-joint knee extension exercise, due to its association with concurrent hypertrophy of the quadriceps, gluteus maximus, and adductor magnus muscles.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
If you're new to working out, doing leg presses twice a week might build more leg muscle in less time than just doing knee extensions, because leg presses work more muscles at once — like your quads, butt, and inner thighs.
See the scientific wording
For untrained adults, the multi-joint leg press (70% 1RM, 5 sets of 10 reps, 2 sessions/week for 12 weeks) may be a more time-efficient exercise for overall lower-limb hypertrophy than the knee extension, as it is associated with simultaneous growth in the quadriceps, gluteus maximus, and adductor magnus.
What the research says
1 studyThe study found that leg press works more muscles at once—including the quads, glutes, and inner thighs—while taking the same amount of time as knee extensions, which mostly only work the quads.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.