The sissy squat, contrary to its name, is a formidable exercise for building quad strength. Far from being an easy workout, it poses a significant challenge even for those accustomed to heavy squats. The sissy squat machine enhances this exercise by focusing intensely on the quads.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll evaluate the 10 best sissy squat machines available. We’ll delve into the reasons behind the sissy squat’s effectiveness for quad strengthening, offer a buyer’s guide for the machine, and address common questions about this unique piece of training equipment.
Top 10 Sissy Squat Machines Ranked
- Best Overall: Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
- Best for Confined Spaces: Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-Function Deep Sissy Squat Machine
- Best Value: Go Plus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine
- Best Heavy Duty: Body-Solid GSS50 Sissy Squat Machine
- Best Multi-functional: GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine
- Best for Beginners: ALTAS Strength 6005B
- Best on Amazon: Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
- Best for Push-Ups: X-Factor 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine
- Best for Stability: ENOW 3-in-1 Sissy Squat machine
- Best for Resistance Bands: Goplus Deep Squat Sissy Squat Machine
How Much Do Sissy Squat Machines Cost?
Sissy squat machines vary in price depending on their quality and versatility. Here’s a breakdown of the costs of our top 10:
| Category | Product | Name | Price | Why We Love It |
| Best Overall |  |
Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine | $199.99 | It’s super durable, extremely stable, allows for a deep squat, and looks great. |
| Best for Confined Spaces |  |
Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-Function Deep Sissy Squat Machine | $163.02 | Ideal for small spaces and is compact enough to be stored under a bed. |
| Best Value |  |
Go Plus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine | $87.99 | Deliver great value. It can be used for sit-ups, push-ups, and squats. |
| Best Heavy Duty |  |
Body-Solid GSS50 Sissy Squat Machine | $290.00 | This machine is super durable and comes with a lifetime warranty. |
| Best Multifunctional |  |
GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine | $135.99 | You can do at least eight different exercises on this machine to work the whole body. |
| Best for Beginners |  |
ALTAS Strength 6005B Sissy Squat Machine | $250.00 | It is very stable, secure, and features a decline sit-up bench. |
| Best on Amazon |  |
Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine | $379.99 | Great value, solid, and aesthetically appealing. |
| Best for Push-Ups |  |
X-Factor 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine | $119.00 | It allows you to perform push-ups, sit-ups, and deep sissy squats. |
| Best for Stability |  |
ENOW 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine | $89.75 | Extremely stable and versatile. The ankle and calf pads are thick and comfortable. |
| Best for Resistance Bands |  |
Goplus Deep Squat Sissy Squat Machine | $139.99 | Ideal for hooking up resistance bands and for more exercise variety. |
Products Reviews
Here are the top 10 best sissy squat machines on the market:
Best Sissy Squat Machine Overall
The best overall sissy squat machine on our list represents the best combination of stability, adjustability, padding, style, aesthetics, and functionality.
Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
The Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine is our favorite sissy squat machine. The solid unit uses 11 gauge steel tubing and supports a maximum user weight of 300 pounds. The base of the frame extends back to provide a counterbalance to the resistance curve as you are lowering into a squat. It helps keep you in place and prevents the front of the machine from lifting off the floor.
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This is a fully adjustable machine. The foam rollers that keep your feet locked in place can be adjusted between five to eight inches for better comfort, stability, and security. There are also five adjustable calf support positions over a range of between 16 and 20 inches.
The Titan Fitness Sissy Squat machine comes in a durable black powder coat that looks very stylish. It also has a diamond-plated footplate to keep the machine in place, preventing lateral movement during your workout.
Titan Fitness has recently released a new version of the machine with upgraded leg and foot pad coverings. It is made of HeftyGrip Vinyl fabric and is more durable and sweat resistant than the previous version.
Who should buy the Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine?
- People who want a fully adjustable, secure machine that is super solid.
Who should not buy the Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine?
- People who want to do a range of exercises.
Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
The Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine is durable, stable, sturdy, and delivers great value. It is our pick for the best sissy squat machine on the market.
Best for Confined Spaces
If you have a confined area for your exercise equipment, you need machinery that is both functional and compact. Our best in this category has a minimum footprint and is foldable while still allowing you to get in a great workout.
Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-Function Deep Sissy Squat Machine
The Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-Function Deep Sissy Squat Machine is ideally suited for apartment dwellers or others who don’t have much space for elaborate training equipment. It is more compact than most other units on the market. Its dimensions are 43.3×19×33 inches, and the whole unit weighs just 26 pounds.
This machine is made from heavy-duty steel and features foam ankle supports and calf pads, which can be adjusted to allow better body positioning. It has a maximum user weight of 330 pounds.
The feature we really like about the Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-Function Deep Sissy Squat Machine is that it can be folded away and stored in a cupboard or under a bed when not in use. Plus, it is a multi-function machine that allows you to perform other exercises, including hyperextensions, side extensions, forward lunges, situps, and push-ups.
This machine also features band anchors, which lets you attach resistance bands to it to make your workout even more challenging and versatile.
Who should buy the Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-Function Deep Sissy Squat Machine?
- People who have limited space to set up a home gym.
- Folks who want to add bands to their workout.
Who should not buy the Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-Function Deep Sissy Squat Machine?
- People who want a super solid machine to accommodate extra weight during the sissy squat.
Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-Function Deep Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-Function Deep Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
The Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-Function Deep Sissy Squat Machine is one of the most aesthetically appealing sissy squat machines on the market. lt is compact and sturdy, making it a great fit for confined spaces.
Best Value
Price will always be a crucial consideration when buying any exercise equipment. Our best budget sissy squat machine represents the ideal mix of performance, functionality, and price.
Goplus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine
The GoPlus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine delivers the best value, and you can get this unit for a great price on Amazon. It is a multifunction machine that allows you to do several exercises. The pads are also fully adjustable so that you can customize the position of the ankle pads and calf brace for your height.
The Goplus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine features six rubber foot pads that keep the unit securely attached to the floor. It ensures that there is absolutely no lateral movement while performing the sissy squat. The roller pads are semi-thick, providing plenty of padding and comfort.
It is a relatively lightweight machine, weighing in at just 17 pounds. That makes it very easy to move around your workout area. However, at 220 pounds, its maximum user weight is considerably lower than most other options on this list. So, if you weigh anywhere near 220 pounds, we suggest you skip this machine and invest in a more robust unit like the Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine.
Who should buy the Goplus 3-in-1?
- People who are on a tight budget.
Who should not buy the Goplus 3-in-1?
- Those who want a machine with a higher weight capacity.
Go Plus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
Go Plus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
If you are on a budget but do not want to compromise on the product's quality or functionality, Go Plus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine is the way to go.
Best Heavy Duty Sissy Squat Machine
You should expect a machine such as a sissy squat to last decades. It will only do that if it is made using heavy-duty materials. Our best in category represents the most heavy-duty unit we could find.
Body-Solid Sissy Squat Machine
The Body-Solid Sissy Squat Machine is designed for commercial gym use. That means that it is solid and durable. The frame is made from heavy-duty 11 gauge steel framing and has a large footplate that keeps you anchored and grounded. An additional feature we especially appreciate is the transportation wheels and handles that make it easy to maneuver this machine around your training space.
The Body-Solid Sissy Squat Machine features band anchor points so you can attach resistance bands to make your workout even more challenging. The ankle and calf pads are both fully adjustable, allowing you to customize the machine to achieve a deep squat.
The maximum weight capacity of this machine is 300 pounds. Your purchase comes with a lifetime warranty, which is about as good as it gets. The one downside of the Body-Solid Sissy Squat machine is that it does not provide as much exercise versatility as some other options on this list. You cannot, for instance, do hyperextensions on this machine.
Who should buy the Body-Solid Sissy Squat Machine?
- Those who need a machine that can withstand rugged use.
Who should not buy the Body-Solid Sissy squat machine?
- People who want maximum versatility in their sissy squat machine.
Body-Solid GSS50 Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
Body-Solid GSS50 Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
Body-Solid GSS50 Sissy Squat Machine has a 300-pound weight capacity and comes with a lifetime warranty. It makes it a great fit for people that want a ruff and tuff product.
Best Multifunctional
While purchasing a sissy squat machine, you should look for a product that provides the most functionality. Our best machine in this category is designed to allow you to work your entire body.
GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine
The GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine is eight machines in one, meaning you can work your entire body on this one machine. It’s a solid unit made from thickened iron pipes and has a maximum user weight of 265 lbs. While not bad, it’s still not as heavy as our top-rated machines, which is why we have rated the Gymax in our number five spot.
This machine has a wide T-shaped base to keep the unit stable and prevent it from toppling over when you descend into a deep squat. It also features non-slip pads to prevent it from sliding under your feet as you are doing your reps.
Both the rear calf pad and ankle supports can be fully adjusted. In fact, with nine angle adjustments for the calf support, the GYMAX has more options than most machines we studied.
The adjustment from one exercise to the next is quick and easy on this machine. It comes with ergonomic grip push-up handles and anchor points to add resistance bands.
The GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine was designed with portability in mind. It has two front wheels to make it easy to move around. The only downside of this machine is that it isn’t built for taller people. If you are taller than six feet, you may struggle to find the right positioning on this machine.
Who should buy the GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine?
- People who want maximum exercise variety out of their purchase.
Who should not buy the GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine?
- Those who are taller than six feet.
GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
You can do eight exercises on the GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine, making it a great asset for your home gym setup.
Best for Beginners
The sissy squat is quite a tricky movement. To do it properly, you need to have confidence that the machine can support you in a compromising position. Our best sissy squat machine for beginners represents the most suitable unit for beginners.
ALTAS Strength 6005B Sissy Squat Machine
The Atlas Strength 6005B sissy squat machine looks different from your standard sissy squat unit. That is because it features a decline sit-up bench. This addition does not interfere with your sissy squat movement, making for a more functional and versatile training tool.
Both ankle and calf pads are fully adjustable on this machine, so you will have no problems customizing the positioning to suit your height. The decline bench can be set to various decline angles and flat positions.
This machine is constructed from 11-gauge steel framing and provides a solid base that will not move around while you are exercising. It features generous padding and transport wheels.
Who should buy the Atlas 6005B?
- People who are just starting with the sissy squat.
- People who also want ab training equipment.
Who should not buy the Atlas 6005B?
- People who want a pure sissy squat machine.
ALTAS Strength 6005B Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
ALTAS Strength 6005B Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
The ALTAS Strength 6005B Sissy Squat Machine comes with transport wheels, a decline bench, adjustable pads, and resistance band anchors.
Best on Amazon
Amazon offers a lot of benefits to its purchasers. The best in this category represents the best mix of value and functionality that you can get on Amazon.
Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
The Element Fitness Sissy Squat machine is a very functional, strong, and well-priced unit. It is made from 11-gauge steel framing and features a wide non-slip base to ensure that the machine does not move during your workout.
This machine is finished in an attractive gray powder coat that will keep it looking great for years. The calf pads and ankle supports are fully adjustable and made from thick comfortable foam.
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Element Fitness stands fully behind this product with a lifetime, no-questions-asked warranty. The only downside is that the machine is not designed for multi-functionality, so the only exercise you can do on it is the sissy squat.
Who should buy the Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine?
- Those who prefer buying from Amazon.
Who should not buy the Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine?
- People who want a multifunctional machine.
Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine delivers great value and is one of the most durable and sturdy sissy squat machines on the market.
Best for Push-Ups
Pairing push-ups with sissy squats allows you to very effectively work your lower and upper body. Our best sissy squat machine for push-ups includes a quality pair of push-up handles, allowing you to do just that.
X-Factor 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine
The X-Factor 3-in-1 is a multi-function machine that has built-in push-up handles. These handles are fitted with sweat and odor-resistant rubber handles and are high enough off the floor to allow for a deep push-up.
This machine allows for six-position foam roller adjustments. The calf pads are also adjustable. On the base of the unit is a sticky floor base to keep it stable and secure during your workout. In our experience, the X-Factor 3-in-1 is one of the safest sissy squat machines you will ever find.
The X-Factor 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine weighs 28 pounds and has a maximum user weight of 280 pounds. It’s easy to assemble but is not fitted with transport wheels.
Who should buy the X-Factor 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine?
- People who want to do push-ups as well as sissy squats.
Who should not buy the X-Factor 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine?
- Those who want a max user weight of 300 pounds plus.
X-Factor 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
X-Factor 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
If you want a sissy squat machine that can double down as push-up bars, the X-Factor 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine is the way to go.
Best for Stability
Stability is paramount when it comes to doing the sissy squat. Unless you are and feel totally secure and stable, you will not be able to give or get the most from this exercise.
ENOW 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine
Because the sissy squat requires you to descend into a squat with your body leaning back, the machine needs to be stable. The ENOW 3-in-1 sissy squat machine is our stand-out in that regard. A lot of the stability comes from the extra long frame base.
The ENOW 3-in-1 Sissy squat machine is a multifunction unit that allows you to perform push-ups and sit-ups. It also features a non-slip footplate. Nonslip suction caps on the base keep it firmly in place while you are squatting.
The generously padded ankle and calf supports are made using sweat and odor-resistant synthetic leather. The machine is easy to put together. It is lightweight but does not come with transport wheels. The maximum weight is 250 pounds, which, relative to the competition, is on the low side.
Who should buy the ENOW 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine?
- Those who require an extremely stable and secure machine.
Who should not buy the ENOW 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine?
- People who want a high max user weight.
ENOW 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
ENOW 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
ENOW 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine is a budget-friendly durable and sturdy sissy squat machine that can handle up to 250 pounds of bodyweight.
Best for Resistance Bands
Sissy squat machines that come with anchor points for resistant bands provide extra training options to work your whole body.
Goplus Deep Squat Sissy Squat Machine
Having the ability to add resistance bands to your sissy squat machine opens up a whole new world of workout possibilities. Besides adding resistance to the sissy squat, you can also do dozens of banded exercises for every muscle group. The Goplus Deep Squat Sissy Squat Machine provides solid, secure, and easy-to-use anchor points to attach your bands.
The Goplus Deep Squat Sissy Squat Machine uses 11-gauge steel framing finished in black and yellow. The adjustable foot and calf pads have thick padding and an attractive vinyl covering. It is a multifunction machine that allows you to do at least eight different exercises, and that doesn’t even include all of the exercises you can do when you add resistance bands.
The maximum user weight of the Goplus Deep Squat is 265 pounds, which is a little on the light side.
Who should buy the Goplus Deep Squat Machine?
- People who want to add resistance bands to their workout.
Who should not buy the Goplus Deep Squat Machine?
- People who require a high max user weight.
Goplus Deep Squat Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
Goplus Deep Squat Sissy Squat Machine Coupon
Fans of resistance band exercises will love the Goplus Deep Squat Sissy Squat Machine for its solid build and versatility.
What to Look For in a Sissy Squat Machine
When performing the sissy squat on a sissy squat machine, your body is in a potentially compromising position. You are relying on the machine to hold you in place. That’s why you must choose a model that is up for the job.
These are the key things to look out for when shopping for a sissy squat machine:
Durability
The machine frame should be constructed from square steel tubing that is at least 2” x 2”. The heavy-duty construction will help keep the machine stable, secure, and sturdy. The padding should be covered in a thick, resilient, sweat, and odor-free material.
Adjustability
The ankle and shin pads should be fully adjustable to allow you to customize them for your height. If not, you won’t be able to get the most out of the exercise.
Versatility
A sissy squat machine is a sizable investment. Ideally, you should be able to do more than one exercise on it. So, look for a piece of equipment that allows you to do other exercises such as push-ups, sit-ups, and hyperextensions.
Stability
The sissy squat machine must be rigid and stable enough so that you feel safe while squatting and leaning back. Even the slightest hint of a wobble can ruin your mindset and spoil the exercise. The machine should have an extended base on the frame behind you to counterbalance the resistance curve as you are descending into a squat.
How We Decided Our Picks
For our top 10 sissy squat machines, we looked at several products. In making our selections, we took the following factors into account:
- Price
- Durability
- Versatility
- Adjustability
- Padding quality
- Weight and max weight capacity
What are the Benefits of the Sissy Squat Machine?
The sissy squat machine helps you perform the sissy squat exercise with maximum efficiency. It locks your shins and lower legs to allow you to do the movement without holding onto a support bar.
The sissy squat exercise involves leg extension, and the only bending should be at the knee joint. As a result, all the load will be on the quadriceps, making the sissy squat an excellent quad isolation exercise.
In effect, the sissy squat machine allows you to perform a leg extension without a leg extension machine. It is a very effective and underutilized movement.
The sissy squat machine has an ankle and knee brace. It also has an extension on the back of the frame that acts as a brace. It prevents the front side of the machine from coming off the floor as you descend into a squat.
When you position yourself in the machine, you create a pivot at the knee. This creates a similar quad activation to the leg extension, except that it is your upper leg that is moving in this exercise rather than the lower leg. The sissy squat allows your quads to move in more of a perpendicular direction to the force of gravity than most other versions of the squat.
Besides working your quads, the sissy squat machine hits the glutes, especially if you squeeze them tightly at the top. The exercise also involves your core.
How to Use the Sissy Squat Machine
This is how to use the sissy squat machine:
- Step into the machine by placing your feet under the ankle brace so that your feet are locked into position and your calves are pressing against the back cushion.
- Stand up straight with your core engaged and your glutes squeezed. Cross your hands over your chest.
- Squat while leaning back your torso. Try to go as low as you can.
- From the bottom position, drive up through the quads to return to an upright position. Do not come to a full standing position as you want to keep the tension on the quadriceps.
- To make the exercise harder, you can hold a weight plate in front of your chest. However, if you do the movement with the right form, your bodyweight should provide enough challenge.
You should use a relatively high rep range when doing sissy squats. Aim for three sets of 15-20 reps. Only when you can do three sets of 20 with perfect form should you start thinking about adding weights.
More on Sissy Squat:
- Sissy Squat Guide
- Weighted Sissy Squat
- Sissy Squat Alternatives
- Deep Knee Bends
- Bodyweight Exercises for Muscle Size and Strength
- The History of Bodybuilding’s Forgotten Mass Builders
FAQs
Are sissy squats bad for the knees?
No, sissy squats are not bad for the knees. Some people may think so based on the erroneous belief that you must not allow your knees to travel over your toes when squatting. In order to get maximum quad stimulation, the opposite is true. When done on a sissy squat machine, the exercise will not cause knee shearing or other supposed damage. In fact, this is a great exercise to strengthen the vastus medialis (VMO) or teardrop muscle directly above the knee. This muscle strengthens and supports knee movement.
Why is this exercise called the sissy squat?
The exercise was, apparently, named in honor of King Sisyphus from Greek mythology. The legend goes that the king was punished by having to push a large rock up a mountain. About 100 years ago, weightlifters who used this exercise after doing regular barbell squats named it the sissy squat because they believed it worked the same muscles and had similar benefits as pushing a rock up a hill.
When should sissy squats be done?
Many people do three or four sets of sissy squats right after heavy barbell squats. They are also often done after leg extensions. If you are training at home and do not have access to a squat rack or leg extension machine, the sissy squat is an excellent stand-alone quadriceps developer.
Can I build leg mass with the sissy squat?
Yes, you definitely can build leg mass with the sissy squat. The exercise isolates the quads so they are doing the majority of the work.
Wrapping Up
Despite its name, the sissy squat is an excellent quadricep developer and deserves to be in your leg workout routine. By investing in a sissy squat machine, you can perform the exercise more conveniently, safely, and effectively.
In this article, we have identified the 10 best sissy squat machines on the market. Its sturdy frame, 300-pound max capacity, and fully adjustable rollers and pads make the Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine our preferred and top-ranked sissy squat machine.
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