The Claim
Single-joint knee extension exercises lead to greater hypertrophy of the rectus femoris muscle compared to multi-joint leg press exercises, even when the vasti muscles are stimulated to a similar extent.
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.
Doing leg extensions might grow your front thigh muscle more than leg presses, even though both workouts work the other big thigh muscles just as hard.
See the scientific wording
Single-joint knee extension exercises induce greater hypertrophy in the rectus femoris compared to multi-joint leg press exercises, despite equivalent stimulation of the vasti muscles.
What the research says
3 studiesThe study found that leg extensions build the rectus femoris muscle more than leg presses, even though both exercises work the other quad muscles similarly.
The study found that leg extensions activate the rectus femoris more than leg presses, even though both work the other quad muscles similarly. This supports the idea that leg extensions are better for growing that specific muscle.
The study found that leg extensions build the rectus femoris muscle more than leg presses, even though both exercises work the other quad muscles similarly.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 3 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.