5 Best Sissy Squat Machines for Leg Extensions [Review + Buying Guide]
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How are your quads? Your hammies? If you’re looking forward to work on your thigh muscles, there’s no other equipment that works like the best sissy squat machine. Although you can do sissy squats with no equipment, a machine will ensure your safety while doing it right.
Here, we handpicked 5 of the best sissy squat equipment that you can use on your workout. We suggest that you browse our buying guide first so you’ll have an informed pick later on.
What is a sissy squat machine?
A sissy squat machine was said to be named after Greek god Sisyphus. The gods punished him to roll a giant rock up a mountain and leave it on top. However, the gods keep rolling it back to the ground. Sisyphus will then have to start over. Depictions of Sisyphus include a well-toned set of quadriceps; thus, the name Sissy squats.
Far from the Greek story, a sissy squat machine is used to isolate the front quads so you can work it out even more. The equipment will also support your knee and calves to reduce the risk of injury.
Most sissy squat machines are adjustable to suit the training needs of the user. Also, it can come with extensions for other muscle routines.
How to Choose the Best Sissy Squat Machine
Purchasing the first sissy squat machine you see is convenient, but it deprives you of the chance to shop around and get the best value. So before we dive into the best options, take time to read the following points first. Trust us, we’ve been there and hasty purchases are a big waste of money.
Construction
The built of the sissy squat should always be sturdy. With the vast amounts of force that will transfer from your quads, you can’t risk it in a shaky unit.
Always opt for heavy-gauge and thick steel. Also, all the components should be welded solidly together. If screws are used to join the parts, it should be durable enough to endure the force exerted during the squats.
Also, it’s advisable to tighten the screws once in a while to make sure that your equipment is safe for your workout.
Padding
Look for soft padding that will cushion your knees and provide the support that you need. Also, avoid models that have padding that runs toward your front leg down below your calf. It can lead to chafing, which can be distracting during your workout.
Most sissy squat machines have faux leather covers. Make sure that it’s well-stitched so it wouldn’t puff after a few sessions.
Size
The size of your sissy squat machine should be based on the leg room that you need as well as the storage space you have. Check the dimensions and compare it to your storage place. Those with large garages or home gyms won’t have problems with bulky equipment. Still, going compact have its perks too.
Aside from the length and width, don’t forget to check the height. It’s often the make-or-break part when it comes to storage.
Stability
A sissy squat should always stand firm during use. Stability is essential since it has something to do with the equipment’s safety.
A loose screw or a wobbly construction can lead to injuries. You might tip your balance and smash your butt on the floor. Worse, you might break an arm or pull a muscle. That’s something you wouldn’t want to happen when you’re working out.
It’s best to purchase a heavy sissy squat. Yes, it’s cumbersome, but the added weight ensures that the equipment will stay in place while you perform your squats.
Adjustability
We all come in various height and weight ranges so it’s just right that you get a sissy squat that you can adjust accordingly. If you’re buying the sissy squat machine for yourself, always get one that suits your body size –you might have longer or shorter legs than most.
Although you can save a few bucks on affordable machines, splurging a bit can go a long way. Look for a sissy squat with adjustable rear support and foot holder. And don’t try to improvise with a layer of padding. It will sabotage your stability and hurt your legs.
Weight capacity
Each sissy squat is made for a specific weight range. Its no-brainer that if you weight more than 350 pounds, it’s not a good idea to purchase one made for a 250-pound user.
Sizing up the sissy squat machine to your body is important for two reasons: for your safety and your money.
This one’s obvious but a lot of people still overlook the weight capacity department. It will lead to frustration and a big waste of money.
Cost
It’s all about the amount you’re willing to shell out. A more expensive sissy squat machine has better quality and decent warranty terms. Also, most high-end equipment has commercial quality, ensuring your safety and value of your money.
Also, sissy squat machines that are in the pricier spectrum come with a lot of extras. Some have extensions that you can use for sit-ups and push-ups.
Of course, not all of us have the budget to splurge on expensive sissy squats. You can look for entry-level types with a more affordable price tag, but don’t put your expectations too high.
TOP PICK: Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
The Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine is made from 11-gauge stainless steel with a powder coat finish. It also has a large, non-skid foot plate to endure the weight of every user.
This is built for serious lifters and workout buffs who are looking for an equally tough equipment. In this machine, you can perform matrix squats and sissy squats more safely and comfortably. You can also use this for sit-ups and ab crunches.
The Element Fitness sissy squat machine has lavish padding that protects your calf from chafing. This will let you perform leg extensions properly without the risk of falling or slipping.
Using this machine, you can target all four heads of your quads and glutes. You can now train and stabilize your balance with peace of mind.
The calf pads and foot holder are adjustable to suit every user. This has a commercial quality that’s guaranteed to last long.
From its build, we can say that this machine can carry more than 300 pounds of user weight. We tested it for 250 pounds and it didn’t even budge.
Pros
- Made from heavy-duty, thick steel
- Adjustable calf support and foot holder
- High weight capacity
- Can be used for a variety of exercises
Cons
- None so far
TDS Pro Sissy Squat Machine
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can consider the TDS Pro Sissy Squat Machine. It’s made with 4” x 2” steel tubing with deluxe padding.
This sissy squat machine has a non-slippery foot plate that allows you to tone hard without worrying about tipping or slipping. Also, the large foot holders are made from thick chrome plates and padding that will last long.
Meanwhile, the calf support is lavish and we love the thickness at the top. It’s also adjustable to six heights which suit almost all users. If you’re a serious trainer like us, you’ll have peace of mind with the heavy-duty non-slip feet. It’s a small addition, but it made a big difference when lifted 100 pounds while squatting.
When it comes to training your quads, we can say that this fits the bill. It’s well-made and our test proved it to be useful with or without the additional weight.
Some complain that this machine isn’t for people under 5’8. We found out that if you remove the black cap on the height adjustment post, the calf pad can go much lower. It just needs a little tweak.
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel frame
- Deluxe and thick padding
- Non-slip foot plate and feet
- More affordable
Cons
- It needs a little tweaking for the calf pad to go lower (not a big issue)
Conquer 3-in-1 Deep Sissy Squat Machine
For those who are looking for an entry-level machine, the Conquer 3-in-1 sissy squat is a pocket-friendly choice. It has durable steel construction and a non-slip footplate.
You can use this for your glutes, quads, arms, and core. It’s a compact machine ideal for newbie workout enthusiasts.
It has decent calf padding and foot holder. Unlike expensive options, the padding of the foot holder is more like a pool noodle foam roller. For most, this would be enough. For such a price, you can’t ask for more. Besides, this is already decent equipment for casual home use.
At the back of the sissy squat machine are two push-up handles with a padded handle. You can also do sit-ups on this equipment for a 3-in-1 purpose.
Overall, this equipment can endure a maximum of 265 pounds of user weight. If you’re on the heavier side of the spectrum, it’s best to consider the other options on this roundup for your safety.
During our test, the Conquer sissy squat machine performed well. It’s kind to the knees, and although it can be sturdier, it’s not bad for the price.
Pros
- Very affordable
- 3-in-1 use
- Non-slip footplate
Cons
- Best for home use only
CFF Pro Series Sissy Squat Machine
One of our favorites is the CFF Pro Series Sissy Squat Machine. It has a unique design and padding that reduces the pressure on the patellar area. Also, the state-of-the-art pad design prevents you from cheating from your workout. It keeps your shins down for proper drills.
This sturdy equipment is made with thick and rugged stainless steel that will last for decades. It also has lavish padding and two sets of roller foot holders that allowed us to perform sit-ups, sissy squats, and other routines. There’s also a weight plate storage (Olympic 2”) so you can stabilize the equipment while you go full-on with your workout.
The CFF sissy squat machine is so flexible you can even use it with strength bands. This will be a bad boy at your home gym since it can carry up to 500 pounds of user weight. Most of all, we love that it has a lifetime limited warranty. For such quality and guarantee, every dollar is worth it.
Overall, the CFF Sissy Squat Machine is a commercial quality piece that you won’t regret buying.
Pros
- Can carry up to 500 pounds of user weight
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Commercial quality equipment
- Dual foot rollers with Olympic 2” weight plate storage
Cons
- None so far
K KiNGKANG Adjustable Sissy Machine
If you want to enjoy affordable and high-quality equipment, consider trying the K KiNGKANG Sissy Squat machine. It’s made with an extended stainless steel base with a non-slip footplate.
This equipment comes with padded calf support and a pair of foot holders that are both adjustable to suit the user’s preference.
What we find interesting is the rope design attached to the front corners of the footplate. You can use this for added balance and in flexing your arms.
The K KiNGKANG sissy squat can carry up to 350 pounds of user weight, which is already a good find for its price. Based on our experience, this is a little beast for your legs. You can also do squats with a 25-pound dumbbell to tone your core while ripping those glutes and quads.
It’s surprisingly lighter than most sissy squat machines we’ve seen before. It weighs 34 pounds which could be a little disadvantageous if you’re into powerful sit-ups.
Pros
- Extended stainless steel base
- Can carry up to 350 pounds of user weight
- Rope design for added flexing
Cons
- Lighter than we’ve expected
Conclusion
The best sissy squat machine can help you tone your leg muscles safely and properly. It’s an unassuming machine that can work wonders with a little creativity. What do you think of our 5 picks here? Have you tried using any of these sissy squat machines before? Let us know below with your comments and feedback.
