Legs
(Week 8, Health & Strength Split)Day Overview
Repeating lower body work to reinforce strength, stability, and mobility, vital for aging support and agility. The focus remains on compound movements and posterior chain development.
Exercises
-
• Safety Bar Squat
Squat using safety squat bar (cambers forward).
Prescribed Sets:
Perform 4 sets of 6-8 reps with an RPE of 8-9, emphasizing controlled descent and explosive ascent to maximize strength and joint safety.
Working Sets:
4
-
• Romanian Deadlift
Focus on hamstring engagement by lowering the barbell with a slight knee bend while keeping the back straight.
Prescribed Sets:
Complete 3 sets of 8 reps at an RPE of 8, focusing on hip hinge and posterior chain engagement to support mobility and stability.
Working Sets:
3
-
• Calf Raises (Standing or Seated)
Stand upright with feet hip-width apart, ensuring balance. For standing calf raises, lift your heels off the ground by pushing through the balls of your feet, engaging your calf muscles, then slowly lower back down. For seated calf raises, sit on a bench or chair with feet flat on the ground, place weight on your knees if desired, then raise your heels by pushing through the balls of your feet, and lower back down slowly. Keep your knees slightly bent or straight depending on variation. Maintain a controlled movement, avoid bouncing, and focus on squeezing the calf muscles at the top of the movement.
Prescribed Sets:
Execute 3 sets of 15 reps at an RPE of 8, emphasizing full range and slow tempo for ankle stability.
Working Sets:
3
-
• Glute Kickback Machine
To perform the glute kickback on the machine, start by adjusting the machine to fit your height. Position yourself facing the machine with your knees on the padded platform and your feet resting on the footrest. Secure your knees under the padded lever. Begin the exercise by extending one leg straight back, keeping your knee slightly bent and your foot flexed. Focus on squeezing your glutes at the top of the movement. Slowly return to the starting position without letting the weight rest completely. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions before switching to the other leg. Maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement and avoid arching your back.
Prescribed Sets:
Perform 3 sets of 12 reps per leg with an RPE of 8, focusing on controlled contraction to strengthen hips and glutes.
Working Sets:
3
-
• Hip Abduction Machine
To perform the hip abduction machine exercise, sit on the machine with your back against the padded support. Adjust the seat height and backrest to ensure comfort and proper alignment. Place your legs inside the padded levers, ensuring that your knees are aligned with the pivot point of the machine. Grip the handles or the sides of the seat for stability. Begin the movement by pushing your legs outward against the resistance, focusing on squeezing your glutes and outer thighs. Keep your feet flexed and avoid arching your back. Slowly return to the starting position while maintaining control. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Prescribed Sets:
Complete 3 sets of 15 reps at an RPE of 8, supporting hip stability and mobility essential for agility.
Working Sets:
3