Summary: If you’re a frequent visitor of Planet Fitness, you might have noticed the leg press machine there. However, the weight of this machine is often a point of confusion for gym-goers. In this article, we’ll explore how much the leg press weighs at Planet Fitness.
1. Understanding the Leg Press Machine
The leg press is a machine used for lower body workouts. It’s often used as an alternative for squats and deadlifts as it is less demanding on your back and provides more support. While different types of leg press machines exist, almost all of them work by pushing a platform away from the user.
At Planet Fitness, there are two types of leg press machines available: the horizontal leg press and the angled leg press. The horizontal leg press machine has a starting weight of 45 pounds, while the angled leg press machine starts at 15 pounds.
It’s important to understand that the weight of the leg press machine includes the weight of the stack of weights and any additional lever weight.
2. Stack Weight Vs. Total Weight
The weight of the leg press machine can be viewed in two ways: the stack weight and the total weight. The stack weight refers to the weight of the metal plates inside the machine’s weight stack.
While the stack weight might give you an idea of how much you’re lifting, it isn’t an accurate representation of the total weight. This is because machines have additional weights, such as cables, pulleys, and levers. These additional weights create added resistance and thus increase the weight you’re lifting.
To calculate the total weight lifted, you should take the stack weight and add the weight from the additional levers and pulleys. At Planet Fitness, the total weight of the leg press machine accounts for both the stack weight and additional lever weight.
3. Adjusting the Weight of the Leg Press Machine
If you’re looking to adjust the weight on the leg press machine at Planet Fitness, you can do so by inserting a metal pin into the stack of weights. The higher the placement of the pin, the more weight will be lifted.
Each plate on the weight stack typically has a weight of 10 pounds. By inserting the pin at the highest position, you’ll be lifting the maximum weight of the machine. At Planet Fitness, the weight on the leg press machine can range from 15 pounds to 495 pounds, depending on the placement of the pin.
A common mistake that people make when adjusting the weight is forgetting to count the weight of the sled or platform. It’s important to take this weight into account when calculating the total weight lifted.
4. Safety Practices on the Leg Press Machine
As with all gym equipment, it’s important to practice safety measures when using the leg press machine. One of the most important aspects of using the leg press machine safely is ensuring proper form while lifting.
To reduce the risk of injury, ensure that your feet are in the right position and that your back is flat against the backrest. Don’t lock your knees out during the movement, and don’t allow your knees to buckle inward. Make sure to keep your breathing controlled throughout the movement to avoid holding your breath and risking dizziness or fainting.
Additionally, it’s important to start with a lower weight and gradually increase it as you become accustomed to the machine’s movement.
5. Conclusion
The weight of the leg press machine at Planet Fitness varies based on the machine type and the placement of the metal pin. While the stack weight can provide a general idea of how much you’re lifting, it’s important to take into account the additional pulleys and levers to calculate the total weight. As with all gym equipment, safety should be a top priority when using the leg press machine.
Remember to adjust the weight gradually and ensure proper form during the exercise to avoid injury and get the most out of your workout.