Exercise guide · intermediate
Standing Cable Knee Extension
Standing Cable Knee Extension uses cables in a isolation movement that primarily trains quadriceps. Use it to train the target muscles through a stable, measurable range.
- Equipment
- cables
- Typical range
- 12–25 reps
- Also works
- Supporting stabilizers
01 · Set up
Align the machine or resistance with the working joint and secure any pad without compressing the joint.
Choose a load you can move without lifting your hips or shifting away from the support.
02 · Perform
Straighten the knees to raise the pad while keeping your hips against the seat.
Stop short of a forced lockout and briefly contract the quadriceps.
Lower under control until the knees return to a comfortable bend.
Coaching tips
- Keep the non-working joints still.
- Use the full controlled range.
- Own the return phase.
Common mistakes
- Moving the torso to create momentum.
- Using resistance that shortens the range.
- Letting the resistance drop on the return.
What it should feel like
Expect controlled effort through the quadriceps, not sharp or joint-focused pain.
Stop or modify when
Stop or shorten the range for sharp, sudden, worsening, or joint-focused pain; choose a reviewed alternative when needed.
Reviewed alternatives