@josh_holyfield: Research shows the seated position creates a hip angle that pre-stretches the hamstrings, allowing for greater muscle activation compared to lying variations. " EMG studies demonstrate up to 20% higher hamstring recruitment when the hip is flexed. Here's the setup that maximizes this advantage: Treat the pad like a seatbelt. Keep your butt flat against the seat. Stay positioned inside the machine without sliding around during the movement. Keep your toes pointed throughout the exercise. The biomechanics matter: when you slide around or let your butt come off the seat, you change the hip angle and reduce hamstring pre-stretch. This shifts activation to other muscles and defeats the exercise's primary benefit. The seated position also allows for a longer muscle length during contraction, which research indicates produces greater hypertrophy stimulus than shorter muscle lengths. Proper positioning = optimal hamstring activation and growth stimulus. Comment "TRAIN" for coaching that combines science with practical execution. #joshholyfield #theironforge
