Squats Cause More Fatigue than Leg Press: Study
When it comes to exercising the legs, two popular options are squats and leg press. Both exercises are effective for targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, but a recent study published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology suggests that squats may be more demanding on the body, leading to greater muscle fatigue and higher levels of stress hormones.
The study, which compared the effects of machine squats and leg press on muscle fatigue and hormone levels, found that squats led to significant increases in muscle fatigue and cortisol levels, compared to the leg press. Cortisol is a hormone released by the body in response to stress, and high levels can have negative effects on the body over time.
The researchers used a Smith machine squat and a leg press machine to assess the effects of each exercise on 15 healthy men. Each participant performed three sets of 10 reps of either the squat or leg press exercise, with a one-minute rest period between sets. Muscle fatigue was measured using a dynamometer, which is a device that measures the force and speed of muscle contractions.
The results showed that the squat exercise led to significantly greater muscle fatigue than the leg press exercise. In fact, muscle fatigue increased by an average of 25% after the squat exercise, compared to a 10% increase after the leg press exercise. Additionally, cortisol levels increased by an average of 15% after the squat exercise, compared to a 5% increase after the leg press exercise.
The researchers also measured levels of growth hormone, which is often referred to as the “youth hormone” because it plays a role in maintaining muscle mass and bone density. Growth hormone levels increased by an average of 12% after the squat exercise, compared to a 5% increase after the leg press exercise.
So, why do squats cause more fatigue than the leg press? The researchers suggest that it may be due to the fact that squats require more overall muscle activation and movement than the leg press. Squats are a compound exercise that works multiple joints and muscle groups, including the knees, hips, and lower back. This requires more energy and effort from the body, leading to greater muscle fatigue and hormone production.
In contrast, the leg press is a simpler exercise that primarily targets the quadriceps and hamstrings. While it is still an effective exercise for building leg strength, it may not be as demanding on the body as squats.
The findings of this study have implications for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who are looking to optimize their workout routine. If you’re looking to burn fat and build muscle, squats may be a good option. However, if you’re looking for a lower-impact exercise that still targets the legs, the leg press may be a better choice.
In conclusion, while both squats and leg press are effective exercises for building leg strength, the results of this study suggest that squats may be more demanding on the body. Squats lead to greater muscle fatigue and higher levels of cortisol and growth hormone, making them a more intense full-body workout option. Whether you’re an athlete or just starting out with a fitness routine, it’s important to consider the demands of each exercise and choose the one that best fits your goals and needs.
Source: https://thepfc.club/blogs/news/smith-machine-squat-vs-leg-press
