Leg training questions.

[lost180]

I have two questions about leg training.

1. I read you're supposed to train your quads slightly more than your hamstrings. Is that true?

2. What are your thoughts on the leg extension and hamstring curl machines? I remember reading once that those machines aren't preferable because it's not a natural movement. Because of that I've focused mainly on squats and deadlifts but I'm looking to change up some of my routine.

Editing to say I want to add them into my routine not replace squats and deadlifts.

[Brian Ayers, CSCS]

1) You don't want to train your quads more than your hamstrings in terms of volume. But it is true that your quads should be stronger than your hamstrings to keep a proper functional balance. This means that you want to be able to do more weight with your quads, not more sets/reps.

2) This question touches on a big debate in the fitness industry as to what is better, functional or isolation exercises. I personally use isolation exercises in combination with functional exercises because I train myself in more of a bodybuilding style. I believe that it all depends on your goals, but you will talk to some trainers that will only train in a functional style and they will say isolations have no use. I actually wrote an article on this topic for my website: www.ttfitness.com/article-details.php?id=14

[lost180]

I actually did read that article I just forgot about it til now. I'm going to add it into my routine for more variation. I don't see how it could hurt really. You're working the muscles just like any other exercise. As long as you don't rely on it as your only means of leg exercise I guess. I thought the debate was more of a what's good for your legs in regards to injuries or something.

Thanks.