- Updated: January 5, 2021
Are your quads lagging behind your butt muscles and hammies? I know the pain all too well. I’ve been there. I kinda looked like Popeye; I digress. My trainer introduced me to sissy squats and I have to say by using the best sissy squat machine, today ain’t looking like Popeye.
By definition, sissy squats, named after King Sissyphus, are exercises that isolate the quads and work on that muscles group so that they don’t lag behind others. From experience, there is nothing sissy about this exercise. Man, it’ll kill you but you’ll feel and look awesome after some time.
What’s in this article? …
In this review we look at my personal favorite, the LeikeFitness sissy squat machine, plus I’ll review a few others I’ve tested at the gym. At the bottom I’ve included features to look at when selecting one, videos on how to use it effectively, and a Must-see before and after picture of King Sissphus.
7 Best Sissy Squat Machine in 2021
Page Contents
- 1. Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
- 2. LeikeFitness Deluxe Sissy Squat Bench (Model GM8300)
- 3. Goplus Multifunctional Squat machine
- 4. TDS Pro Sissy Squat Machine
- 5. K KiNGKANG Adjustable Sissy Squat Bench
- 6. Enow Squat Machine
- 7. G4-MAX Sissy Squat Bench
- 8. NBpower Sissy Squat Machine
- 9. ARCHON Sissy Squat Machine
- 10. Gymax Quad Machine
- How to use a sissy squat machine
- Sissy Squats Machine Benefits
- How to choose a squat machine
- Sissy Squat Bench FAQs
1. Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
Features:
+ Non-skid foot plate
+ Well-padded calf support
+ Heavy-duty design
+ Strong base
Specifications:
+ Size: 36 x 24 x 24 inches
+ Weight: 45 pounds
+ Capacity: 300 lbs
+ Construction: 11 gauge stainless steel with grey powder finish
The Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine comes highly recommended by the Gronk family. You may wonder … Who are those?
Well, if you’ve not come across this name before, Gronk family is a group of pro-athletes who recommend products they’ve tested and have brought them great results.
For quad workouts, they turn to the hack squat machine or Element Fitness sissy squat bench.
Now … Lets look at why this is their go to squat machine.
The Element Fitness Sissy squat bench is made of 11 gauge stainless steel for stability and so it can accommodate heavy users.
Speaking of weight capacity, this sissy squat machine can handle up to 300lbs without wobbling.
So, if your weight is below 300lbs, you can workout with peace of mind. For heavier users, we recommend the KingKang machine reviewed below.
The Metal parts of this unit are covered using great finish that protects against scratches and rust.
Another excellent feature you will enjoy is the large non-slip footplate to keep your feet in place. Also, the manufacturer has included sturdy, foam-padded calf pads to keep your feet in place while doing the squats.
Some of the exercises you can do using Element Fitness sissy squat machine include:
- Free standing squats
- Sit-ups
- Ab crunches
The Element Fitness sissy squat machine can support up to 300 lbs without wobbling.
What we liked
- Adjustable pad to accommodate users of different heights
- Solid base so it does not slide on the ground
- Great for small apartments
- Designed for serious athletes
What we didn’t like
- Not ideal for people with knee problems
FAQs:
Will the machine build hams and glutes also?
Though the Element Fitness sissy squat machine is designed mostly for the quads, it’ll also work your glutes and hams though not to the extent you would want.
Does it have a weight limitation?
Per the manufacturer, it can handle up to 300 lbs though users weighing 350 lbs have used it comfortably.
How bad is this squat machine for knees?
It depends on how healthy or unhealthy your knees are. If you have knee problems, we recommend you exercise with slow and controlled motions.
Resources: Gain muscles fast using this 4 day split workout plan
Features:
+ Foldable design
+ Easy to move and store
+ Adjustable height + and angle
+ Adjustable foot holder
+ Multi-functional design
Specifications:
+ Size: 39.4 x 21.7 x 31.7 inches
+ Weight: 30.3 pounds
+ Capacity: 330 lbs
+ Materials: Pu leather, PP foam, steel frame
Earlier on, I mentioned my best sissy squat machine and my top recommendation is the Leikefitness sissy squat bench.
In my own experience:
It has more to offer than most sissy squat machine.
The LeikeFitness Sissy squat machine is great for:
- Deep sissy squats
- Sit-ups
- Hyper-extension
- Band squat
- Forward lunge
- Side extension and more
This squat machine is made of heavy duty steel. It supports up to 330 lbs, making it ideal for heavier athletes.
Just like the Element Fitness unit above, it comes with a well-padded cushion to keep you steady and ensure your comfort.
So, What set’s this machine apart?
This sissy squat bench comes with numerous adjustability features to accommodate different sized users and also allow you to do different types of exercises.
For intense workouts, you can easily adjust its incline angle.
To accommodate people of different heights, this unit is height adjustable. You can also adjust the padded foot holders.
Speaking of foot holders, this unit comes with padded foot holders to ensure there is no pain or pinching during your workouts.
Last but not least, the Leikefitness GM8300 sissy squat machine is foldable for easy storage. It folds perfectly so you can keep it on a shelf or under your couch.
Honestly, this is one of the best sissy squat benches out there. I can’t recommend it enough.
What we liked
- Foldable design
- Can hold up to 330 lbs
- Can be used for different types of exercises
- Lightweight compared to other models
- Covered using PU leather which is durable
FAQs:
Can I do back extension exercises with the Leikefitness sissy squat bench?
Yes. Since this machine is adjustable, you can adjust it for your back extension exercises
Can this unit be folded?
The Leikefitness squat machine is foldable for easy storage under bed or couch or on a shelf in your garage.
What is its ideal user height?
This squat unit is ideal for users up to 6’3″
Features:
+ Multi-function design
+ Height adjustable
+ Steel construction
+ Anti-slip pads
+ Thick foam padding
+ Push-up armrests
Specifications:
+ Size: 36 x 17 x 14.5 inches
+ Weight: 17 lbs
+ Weight capacity: 220 lbs
+ Color: Black, yellow
Another perfect sissy squat machine for home use is the Goplus multi-functional exercise equipment.
Goplus offers you the opportunity to combine core training exercises such as sit-ups, pushups, and sissy squats.
Now, the Goplus sissy machine is made of iron, a material which is sturdy and durable.
It features a wide base for stability and a well-padded squat cushion.
This squat machine also comes with push-up armrests that allow you to perform upper body exercises such as push ups.
Now:
What makes this unit stand out from the rest is the two circles at the front of the machine that you can use to attach a rope for battle rope exercises.
Also, you can adjust your Goplus sissy squat bench in 6 different heights. This features allows users of different heights to use this sissy squat bench comfortably.
Goplus sissy squat machine also comes with a non-slip diamond plate and comfortable padding.
What we liked
- Well built and sturdy
- Affordable compared to Ab benches
What we didn’t like
- Not foldable
- Weight capacity lower than other sissy squat machines
FAQs:
How much weight can this machine handle?
The Goplus sissy squat bench can hold up to 220lbs.
Can I use this unit for other exercises?
Yes, you can use it together with a rope or dumbbell for more intense workouts.
Features:
+ Deluxe padding
+ White powder finish
+ Adjustable floor stabilizers
+ Adjustable rear cushion
Specifications:
+ Size: 18 x 45 x 23.5 inches
+ Weight: 60 pounds
+ Weight capacity: 300 pounds
+ Construction: 4 X 2 inches stainless steel with white powder coated finish
TDS has been around for over 40 years manufacturing. They offer some excellent fitness equipment. Their Pro Series includes hip sleds, squat bars, power racks and this sissy squat machine.
This premium piece of equipment comes with long foams pads that help protect your calves and keep them secure while working out.
Inside the pad you will find thick chrome plates that help maintain the pads position.
It’s frame is made of durable steel tubing with a wide base for user stability. This frame can handle users up to 300lbs.
To the front of the pad you will find a small dial.
This knob helps adjust the height of the pads so that users of different heights can use the TDS Pro sissy squat machine.
According to users experience, this unit is ideal for up to 6′
TDS Pro machine features an adjustable wide contoured pad that ensures your legs remain comfortable while exercising.
The pad adjusts to 6 different heights from 18-22.5 inches.
This sturdy machine also comes with a 12 x 16 inches non-skid plate.
What we liked
- Easy to put together
- Well-made and durable machine
- Comfortable and very
- adjustable
What we didn’t like
- Main pad (behind knees) might be a bit high for some users
FAQs:
Does it need assembling?
The TDS Pro Squat machine needs assembling. It comes with clear instructions that will guide you through the installation process. In 30 minutes you’ll have your unit up and ready for use
Is there space between the footplate and leg rollers?
The space between the footplate and leg rollers measures between 3.5 – 4 inches, so there is enough leg room for you calves.
How much weight can it hold?
It can support up to 300 lbs.
Features:
+ Slip resistant plates
+ Ankle foam rollers
+ Resistance straps
+ Steel frame
+ Adjustable calf pads
Specifications:
+ Size: 39 x 21.2 x 16.5 inches
+ Weight: 36.9 pounds
+ Weight capacity: 350 pounds
+ Color: Yellow, Black
+ Construction: Stainless steel with black finish
K KiNGKANG sissy squat machine is one of the lightest and most stable fitness equipment on the market.
It is also the most affordable sissy squat unit today.
Made of stainless steel, this heavy duty unit is built to support up to 350 lbs. If you prefer to use weights while doing squats, this is the perfect squat machine for you.
Its base is made of non-skid plates for extra stability. It also features foam padded rollers for calf support.
We like that the calf supports are adjustable, 4 positions,
This sissy squat machine also features two circles where you can attach a rope for rope exercises.
Lastly, this sissy squat bench comes with Free resistance bands which will help you exercise your upper body. You can use these resistance bands for bicep curls, chest fly, and more.
Some of the exercises you can perform using K KiNGKANG sissy squat machine include:
- Squats
- Burpees
- Pushups
This premium piece of equipment is design for easy storage.
You can stow it in a corner or hang it up in your garage.
The manufacturer has included wheels and a handle for easy portability.
What we liked
- Easy to assemble (only 3 parts to assemble)
- Comes with FREE resistance bands
- Requires little storage space
What we didn’t like
- Does not come with guidance for how to use it (check below for steps)
FAQs:
I’m 5’6″, can I use this machine?
The KingKang squat unit is adjustable. You can adjust the calf pad, 6 positions, and the front pole (4 positions). This machine is ideal for users between 5’0″ and 6’0″
Will it pinch my feet?
No. This unit comes with foam padding plus the rollers are height adjustable, 16.5 – 20.5 inches. You can find the position that is most comfortable.
How much weight can it hold?
It’s made for up to 220lbs.
Features:
+ 3-in-1 design
+ Steel construction
+ Height adjustable
+ Push-up armrests
Specifications:
+ Size: 31.1 x 14.7 x 15.4 inches
+ Weight: 26.4 lbs
+ User Capacity: 250 lbs
+ Warranty: 90 days
The Enow squat machine is the newest kid on the block and it comes loaded with lots of incredible features.
First off, it is made of incredibly tough steel for durability and also user stability. You can be assured you unit won’t wobble when exercising.
Like the K KiNGKANG squat machine above, it is a multifunctional machine. This means you can do different exercises using your unit. It saves you on space and cost.
You can do:
- Deep squats
- Push-ups
- And sit-ups
These exercises target your upper body as well as your lower body, allowing you to exercise multiple muscles together.
The Enow squat machine also features foam-padded rollers that will keep your feet in place. Also, the rollers protect your feet against pinching and pain.
This sissy squat unit can accommodate up to 250 lbs and can be used by people up to 6’2″ tall.
For portability and storage, the Enow squat bench comes with a handle and transport wheels. It’s compact design allows for easy storage.
Overall, it’s a great machine for anyone looking for a lightweight, portable sissy squat machine.
What we liked
- Easy to assemble
- Comes with handles and wheels for easy transportation
- Ideal for both upper and lower body workouts
- Well-padded for comfort
What we didn’t like
- Ships flat-packed. But, it’s easy to put together, will take you less than 30 minutes.
FAQs:
What is the lowest height from top of the pad to the foot plate?
Around 15 inches.
How much space does it require?
It’s base measures 31.1 x 14.7 inches. It takes up very little floor space, making it perfect for small home gyms or apartments.
Does it have a warranty?
Manufacturer offer 1 year warranty
Features:
+ 3-in-1 design
+ Adjustable leg support
+ Well-padded seat
Specifications:
+ User capacity: 250 pounds
+ User height: 5 – 6.7ft
+ Color: Red, Black
Still unsure which is the best sissy squat machine? How about you try one that has excellent reviews from fitness instructors and at home users?
This sissy squat machine is ideal for sissy squats, Abs workouts, and push-ups.
It comes with a comfortable foam padded rollers that protects feet and a non-slip floor plate. It is adjustable to fit users from 5 to 6.7 ft tall.
This versatile exercise bench can carry weight up to 250 pounds.
What we liked
- Easy to set up
- Excellent for quadriceps
- Affordable
What we didn’t like
- Does not have a holder to place dumbbells or plates
Features:
+ 3-in-1 design
+ Foam ankle holders
+ Sturdy construction
+ Compact design
+ Rubber floor stabilizers
Specifications:
+ Size: 42.5 x 22 x 26 inches
+ Weight: 33.1 pounds
+ User capacity: 550 lbs
+ Color: Yellow, red
Another great sissy squat bench you will love is the NBpower sissy squat machine.
This 3-in-1 equipment is ideal for crunch abs workouts, sit ups, leg curls and deep sissy squats.
It features a 2 x 2 inch thick steel tubing construction. Also, the steel is covered with scratch and corrosion resistant paint.
What does this mean for you?
Simply put, your machine will last for years with little maintenance.
This sissy squat bench also features foam rollers that help lock your feet in place when exercising and protect your calves from pinching. The pads are supported by a strong iron tube, so you are assured of safety.
Another feature that sets it apart from other sissy squat benches is the quick release pop pin that allows you to adjust the vertical board in one move.
NBpower sissy squat bench comes with a built-in weight bar holder where you can place your barbell or dumbbell as you workout.
Lastly, it comes with rubber floor stabilizers to help with user stability and also protect the floor from scratches.
What we liked
- Ideal for tall users from 5ft to 6ft tall
- Easy to reverse the angle pad
- Lightweight and efficient
What we didn’t like
- Not ideal for people over 6ft tall
FAQs:
What are its dimensions?
The NBpower sissy squat machine measures 42.5 x 22 x 26 inches
How much weight can it hold?
This sissy squat bench can handle up to 550 lbs, making it the best sissy squat machine for heavy person.
Features:
+ Compact design
+ Adjustable calf and shin pads
+ Diamond plated footrest
+ Rubber feet
Specifications:
+ Size: 40 x 25 x 20 inches
+ Weight: 60 lbs
+ User Capacity: 400 lbs
Also known as the Quad Buster, the Archon sissy leg machine is the best pick for anyone looking for a budget friendly quad machine.
Just like other sissy squat machines on this list, it is made of steel with corrosion and scratch-resistant paint coating.
This sissy squat bench has two adjustable pads; a calf pad that you can adjust vertically and a shin pad that you can adjust horizontally. This feature accommodates different sized legs.
Just like other versatile machines on this list, it comes a foot plate with diamond-shaped foot grips that ensure your feet remain secure. This machine is made from durable steel with rubber feet to provide grip and protect floor.
What we liked
- Can hold more weight than other sissy squat benches
- Very easy to assemble
- Stable and solid
FAQs:
Is this sissy squat machine constructed of steel gauge?
The Archon squat machine is made of 12 gauge steel tubing. Built like a tank, you’ll use this unit for years.
What is the maximum user weight capacity?
This machine can handle up to 400 lbs without wobbling.
How low does its support pad go?
At its highest setting, it measures 9 inches from the foot plate while the lowest is 6.5 inches. For the ‘seat’ lowest is 20 inches while highest is 22.5 inches.
Features:
+ Multifunctional design
+ 3 adjustable levels
+ Height adjustable
+ Transport wheels
Specifications:
+ Size: 20 x 30 x 29.5 inches
+ User height: 4’10” to 6’4″
+ User capacity: 265 lbs
Gymax is renowned for its high-quality fitness equipment. They offer excellent fold flat treadmills, barbell weights, walking pads, workout benches, indoor spin bikes and more.
The Gymax sissy squat machine is an exceptional quad machine that will allow you workout your upper and lower body.
You can use it for squats, twists, push-ups, sit-ups, as well as leg lift exercises.
This machine features a heavy duty steel construction with anti-scratch paint finishing.
Its seat is well-padded for comfort and is adjustable in 3 positions to meet your different workout needs.
Also, the seat cushion is height adjustable to accommodate users of different heights. Users between 4’10” to 6’4″ can use this machine comfortably.
Lastly, the Gymax sissy squat machine is easy to move and store. It comes with transport wheels and folds for easy storage.
What we liked
- Assembling this quad station is easy
- Foldability design makes it easy to move around and store
- Multifunctional design allow you to perform up to 8 exercises
FAQs:
How much weight can it handle?
This sissy squat bench can hold up to 265 lbs.
Which type of floor is suitable for this machine?
It comes with floor stabilizers that allow you to use it on carpeted and uncarpeted surfaces.
How to use a sissy squat machine
Squats are easy to perform. Just stand up straight with legs slightly apart, hips back, then sit slowly until your knees are bend to a 90-degree angle.
Easy, right?
- Now; using a sissy squat bench with foam rollers and everything, how do you achieve the same results? Here is the most comfortable and effective way to use this quad machine.
- Stand on the squat machine with legs apart.
- Using the adjustment knob, adjust the rollers so they can hold your calves firmly. Ensure there is no pinching.
- Hips back, gently lean so your knees form a 90-degree angle. Transfer your body weight to the machine.
Here is the video version of this. Ensure you don’t strain your body.
- For the ladies in the house
2. For the gentlemen
Sissy Squats Machine Benefits
Crazy story: In Greek mythology, there was a king named Sisyphus. This King was renowned for his devious ways.
One time he betrayed Zeus. When this rogue king passed on, his punishment was to roll a huge boulder up a steep slope for all eternity.
Well, Zeus put a crazier spin to this punishment. He cast an enchantment on the boulder such that every time King Sisypus pushed the bolder uphill, the boulder would slip from his hands and roll downhill.
The King would be forced to go back and roll it back uphill again. A futile task!
Can you picture his quads after the first few trips? This is the origin of sissy squats. If you want strong, toned quads like King Sisyphus, you can roll a stone uphill or better still, get a sissy squat machine. Here the benefits sissy squat benches
1. Safety
Fact: Using a sissy squat machine is safer than using a leg extension machine. For sometime, fitness coaches used and recommended knee extension or leg extension machine.
However, sports therapists and physiotherapist discovered that using a leg extension machine extensively could result to knee problems.
A sissy squat bench, such as the TDS Pro, is safe because it allows you to lock your feet and calves, ensuring you stay balance while working out.
Also, the cushioned pad helps protect your knees and keep them at the right angle. This is especially helpful to athletes suffering from back pain or knee pain.
2. Multi-functional
I love equipment that allow more than one exercise. Most sissy squat benches, such as the K KiNGKANG, are multi-functional. You can use them for sissy squats, Abs crunches, and push-ups. You can make your workout more challenging by including dumbbells or plates.
3. Affordability
If you are on a budget and you need sexy quads, a sissy squat machine, such as ARCHON, is the safest bet. These machines are more affordable compared to other exercise equipment such as leg extension machines.
How to choose a squat machine
When choosing the best sissy squat bench, there are some important factors to keep in mind. These features, when combined, ensure you end up with a high quality, efficient and durable machine.
Here are some pointers from our team to help you in the selection process.
- Comfort
To ensure user comfort, a squat machine should be well-padded on the ankle holders and seat.
The padding should be soft. Also, check on the upholstery material. The material use should be friction-resistant and comfy.
- Features
When looking for any type of squat machine, you should check the feature keenly. Squat machines are not designed equally.
Some quad machines allow you to perform squats exercises only while others have a 3-in-1 function that allow you to do push-ups, squats and sit-ups.
Also, others allow you to attach resistance bands or ropes for upper body exercise.
Choose a quad machine with features that will meet your exercising needs.
- Stability
One of the things that determine a machines stability is the construction. Opt for a machine made of steel tubing.
Also, ensure your pick comes comes with a wide base and floor stabilizers
- User capacity
Now this one is simple and is determined by two things; one your weight and two, the squat variation you’ll be performing.
For example, if you weigh 180lbs, choose a sissy squat unit that can handle up to 220 lbs. If you’ll be exercising with weights, go for one that can handle up to 300lbs.
- Height adjustability
A machine that is adjustable allows you to customize the fit. It also makes it easy to share the equipment with a loved one or friend.
Sissy Squat Bench FAQs
Sissy squat muscles worked
The major muscles targeted by this exercise are the four muscles that make up the quads. After some sessions you will start to see the results you desire.
2. Are sissy squats bad for your knees?
Sissy squats will kill your knees! No they won’t. Not if you use a sissy squat bench. Your knees are more likely to get injured when you do squat matrix. Foam rolling can help you reduce soreness after workouts.
3. Can a squat machine give you a bigger butt?
A sissy squat bench can workout you glutes but may not give you the results you desire. If you want a toned butt, consider using a recumbent bike.
Final Thoughts
Sissy squats ain’t for sissies. For the many athletes who have tried them, they can attest to their effectiveness on toning the quads muscles.
A sissy squat bench offers support to your knees, preventing pain. Also you get to do other workouts like sit-ups and Ab crunches using your sissy squat machine.
Last update on 2021-01-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API