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Resistance Band Single-Leg Standing Leg Extension

Beginner
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A single-leg standing knee extension using a resistance band that targets the quadriceps for strength and knee stability; enhances balance and suits home or travel workouts.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Quads

Secondary Muscles

Hip Flexors, Abs, Glutes

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Quads

10/10

Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis

Hip Flexors

5/10

Iliopsoas

Abs

4/10

Transverse Abdominis

Glutes

3/10

Glute Medius

Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Anchor one end of the resistance band low to a sturdy point. Loop the other end around your working ankle, step away to create tension, and stand with feet hip-width, holding a support if needed.

  1. Brace your core and maintain upright posture.
  2. Slowly extend your working leg forward by straightening the knee.
  3. Squeeze your quadriceps at full extension.
  4. Hold briefly without locking the knee.
  5. Controlled bend the knee to return to start.
  6. Resist the band's pull throughout.
  7. Switch legs after reps.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Knee tracks straight forward
  • Squeeze quads at top
  • Core tight for balance
  • Controlled return no snap
  • Upright torso always

Breathing

Exhale as you extend the leg; inhale as you return to start. Brace core throughout.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Start with knee bent at 90 degrees; extend to near straight leg without hyperextending the knee.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Secure anchor firmly
  • Choose appropriate band resistance
  • Avoid if acute knee pain
  • Use support for balance initially
  • Inspect band for damage
  • Stop if hip or knee discomfort arises

Spotting

No spotting needed; use stable anchor and balance support for safety.

Common Mistakes

  • Using momentum instead of control
  • Locking knee at extension
  • Leaning torso forward
  • Letting band snap back
  • Knee collapsing inward

When to Avoid

  • Acute knee injury
  • Severe balance issues
  • Hip flexor strain

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate ankle dorsiflexion
  • Basic hip flexion range

Build Up First

  • Familiarity with knee extension movement
  • Ability to maintain single-leg stance

Also known as

Banded Single-Leg Leg Extension, Standing Band Quad Extension, Resistance Band Standing Knee Extension

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