Written by Kiel DiGiovanni | Co-founder
Fact checked by Kirsten Yovino, CPT Brookbush Institute
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Unlike the name suggests, sissy squats are not for sissies. The sissy squat has grown in popularity over the past few years as more and more people recognize its benefits. You're here because you understand that this awkward-looking exercise can help you build some serious quads. We're here to point you in the direction of finding the perfect sissy squat machine for your home gym.
With dozens of machines on the market, we put in the time to narrow it down to the 7 best sissy squat machines. From multi-functional machines to commercial-grade sissy squat machines, this post has you covered.
Table of Contents:
- The top sissy squat machines
- Comparison table of the top rated sissy squat machines
- What to look for when buying a good sissy squat machine
- Benefits of sissy squats
- FAQs
7 Best Sissy Squat Machines For Your Home Gym
- Overall Best: Titan Sissy Squat Machine
- Budget Pick: Goplus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine
- Amazon Pick: Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
- Heavy Duty Pick: Body-Solid Sissy Squat Machine
- Most Multi-Functional: GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine
- For Small Spaces: Leikefitness Deluxe Sissy Squat Bench
- For Beginners: ALTAS Strength 6005B Sissy Squat
SFS Pick
Titan Fitness
SFS Budget Pick
GoPlus
SFS Amazon Pick
Element Fitness
1. Overall Best Sissy Squat Machine: Titan Sissy Squat Machine
The Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine is our top pick to perform sissy squats with. This squat machine is constructed with a sturdy steel frame that can hold up to 300 pounds, unlike most sissy squat machines that will have a max weight capacity somewhere in the mid 200 lb range.
With this sissy squat machine, you can crush some high reps or add more resistance by holding a weight or using a resistance band to challenge yourself.
The Titan Fitness sissy squat machine features four adjustable foam rollers for your feet that can be positioned from 5 to 8 inches plus five adjustable calf pad positions that range from 16 to 20 inches. Having this functionality will make it a more comfortable experience when performing sissy squats.
They built this machine from the ground up using 11 gauge steel tubing that's covered by a durable black powder coat finish plus a diamond-plated footplate that will help you from any potential slippage.
The newest version comes with an upgraded leg and foot pad covering of a HeftyGrip Vinyl fabric to keep you in place even if dripping in sweat.
There are plenty of sissy squat machines to choose from, but if you want a machine that will stand the test of time, then look no further than this one.
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel frame
- Maximum adjustability
- HeftyGrip vinyl covering for extra grip
- 300 lb maximum weight capacity
Cons
- Limited to only sissy squat functionality
This lower body specialty machine has four adjustable foot roller positions, from 5 to 8-inches, and five adjustable calf pad positions, from 16 to 20-inches, for comfort and safety. Fully equipped with a diamond plated footplate...
2. Best Budget Sissy Squat Machine: Goplus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine
Sometimes you can find some great buys on Amazon, and this is one of them. The Goplus 3 in 1 Sissy Squat Machine offers users the capability to perform a variety of exercises, from deep sissy squats to raised push-ups, for a price tag of around $100!
This multi-function sissy squat machine features 6 rubber foot pads to prevent the machine from moving while in use, plus it offers 6 different height levels up to 5.5" to keep your feet locked into place. The semi-thick foam roller pads should be acceptable for most users to have a comfortable workout experience.
This is a lightweight sissy squat machine too, weighing only 17 pounds, you can move this sissy squat machine around your gym space as you please. Its constructed with an iron frame that will hold up to 220 pounds and comes with two handles on the rear that can be used for push-ups.
Goplus also had the forethought to add two-ring anchor attachments at the front just in case you wanted to pair your sissy squats with resistance bands.
All in all, this versatile sissy squat machine is a great budget option to add to your home gym.
Pros
- Great price for the functionality
- Two anchors for resistance bands
- Handles for raised push ups
Cons
- Maximum weight capacity of 220 lb
As a versatile exercise machine, it combines a variety of core training functions, such as deep sissy squat, sit-ups and push-ups to provide appropriate physical exercise for the abdomen, buttocks and legs...
3. Best Sissy Squat Machine On Amazon: Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
This Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine doesn't leave much to be desired for. If you're serious about performing deep sissy squats, this is the machine for you.
With the Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine, you get a high-quality stainless steel piece of gym equipment that will be your first and last purchase of one. Constructed from 11 gauge stainless steel tubing that's covered by a grey powder coat, you can be assured that it will stay looking fresh for years to come.
The fully adjustable calf pads and foot holders showcase a thick, durable foam for extra comfort, while the non-slip foot plate will keep your feet in place as you perform deep sissy squats.
The Element Fitness sissy squat machine comes with a lifetime warranty which makes it a perfect addition to any home gym. Oh yea, we should also mention that this product is endorsed by Rob Gronkowski's family, which is saying a lot.
Pros
- 11 gauge steel frame
- Lifetime warranty
- Adjustable calf pad and foot holders
Cons
- Single functionality
- Foot holders are only adjustable horizontally
The Element sissy squat machine was designed to withstand any use and abuse which is exactly why it’s made of 11 Gauge stainless steel and why it features a grey powder coated finish...
4. Best Heavy Duty Sissy Squat Machine: Body-Solid Sissy Squat Machine
The Body Solid GSS50 Sissy Squat Machine is a commercial-grade piece of gym equipment that's great for heavy training of the quads and core.
The GSS50 is built with a heavy-duty 11 gauge steel frame which gives you the stability to perform a number of exercises from deep sissy squats to Russian twists. The base of the machine features an extra-wide non-slip footplate while also sporting some wheels and handles for easy transport.
Body Solid even added some resistance band anchor points in case you want to turn it up a level and do some band squats.
The adjustable leg pad allows you to hit a deep sissy squat without the worry of it toppling over as it carries a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds!
This is a great piece of fitness equipment for those looking for something they can get a lifetime of use from.
Pros
- Heavy-duty 11 gauge steel frame
- Lifetime warranty
- 300 lb max weight capacity
Cons
- Not as multi-functional as some other sissy squat machines listed in this roundup
Offers the perfect platform for training multiple muscle groups including abs, legs, and core while performing isolation exercises like quad-focused squats (sissy squats), deadlifts, russian twists, sit-ups and medicine ball tosses...
5. Best Multi-Functional Sissy Squat Machine: GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine
The GYMAX sissy squat machine is a multi-function piece of gym equipment that will keep you busy for some time to come.
With this 8-in-1 machine, you can basically hit the whole body from sit-ups to sissy squats; this has you covered.
The GYMAX sissy squat machine is made from thickened iron pipes that allow for loads up to 265 pounds. The wide T-shaped base ensures that the machine won't topple over when doing a deep sissy squat. Added to the wide base, you'll find non-slip pads to help protect your flooring while minimizing any possible slippage.
Another reason we like this sissy squat machine is that the rear cushion angle can be adjusted at 9 angles with a simple knob pull. Plus, the rear cushion has three different height positions. Not to mention the foot holder rollers also have the ability to change the position. These multi-function features make it one of the top sissy squat machine options, enabling you to work most of the major muscle groups.
Move from a deep squat to forward lunge to back extension within seconds; it's really that easy. In addition, this machine features ergonomic grips for push-ups and anchor points for resistance bands.
Last but not least, you can consider this a portable option due to the two wheels on the front of the sissy squat frame that make storage an easy task. Considering the amount of adjustability, this is one of the best sissy squat machines on the market.
Pros
- Multi-function capability
- Maximum adjustability of rear cushion angle and height plus foot foam rollers
- Easy transport wheels
Cons
- Not a great option for taller people over 6 feet
This 8-in-1 sissy squat machine provides effective exercise for your whole body, allowing you build muscle for full body. Besides, the rope rings on the front enable you to...
6. Best Sissy Squat Machine For Small Spaces: Leikefitness Deluxe Sissy Squat Bench
The LeikeFitness Deluxe Sissy Squat Machine is the ideal piece of fitness equipment for home gym owners that are short on space.
This deluxe multi-function sissy squat machine frame is made from steel and features a durable PP foam foot holder and adjustable rear cushion. The foot foam roller and rear cushion are covered by durable PU leather that's easy to keep clean and will resist easy tearing.
Like the previous sissy squat machine on our list, you can adjust the rear cushion angle and height as well as the foam roller pads that hold your feet in place. Being able to adjust all the settings of this sissy squat machine makes it a great choice for a home gym with multiple users or for those who want to do deep sissy squats, back extensions, sit-ups, and more.
Not all sissy squat machines are as space-friendly as this deluxe multi-function machine; the engineers designed it so that you can fold it up and put it away when not in use, so those of you are reading this that have limited space but still want to get in a killer workout then look no further than this!
Pros
- Multi-functionality
- 330 lb maximum weight capacity
Cons
- Taller users might not be able to use the back extension function
It’s so simple to use, no assembly needed, you unpack the machine, fix it with the pin, unfold the cushion, you are ready to go. This deluxe machine also is foldable and space saving...
7. Best Sissy Squat Machine For Beginners: ALTAS Strength 6005B Sissy Squat
The Atlas Strength 6005B Sissy Squat Machine is a bit different from the rest of the options above as it is more of a sissy squat bench hybrid.
People who want to work their abs might find this sissy squat bench a perfect fit as the machine features a full decline ab bench set behind the rear cushion. All the components of this squat machine are adjustable, so you shouldn't have any issues finding a suitable positioning, whether under the foam rollers for the foot holder or for the rear cushion that can be set at different heights. Users can set the ab bench at a decline to pull off some sit-ups or set it flat if going for a deep sissy squat.
This is a great sissy squat machine with solid construction. Starting from the floor up, the non-slip foot plate helps give you a steady footing as you go into a deep sissy squat.
Pros
- Comes with a sit-up bench to work on abs
- Easy adjustment of rear cushion and foot holder
- Wheels for easy transport
Cons
- A tad more expensive compared with other options
- Weight capacity not listed
With its large anti-slip foot plate, this sissy squat machine can stand the weight of any athlete and it can also be used for ab crunches or sit-ups as well...
Top Sissy Squat Machines Side By Side Comparison
Below you'll find a chart that compares the sissy squat equipment from above. We think it's important to see how gym equipment stacks up next to each other so that you can make a more informed decision.
|
Product Name |
Price ($-$$$) |
Dimension |
Warranty |
Weight Capacity |
Features |
Average Rating |
|
|
$$ |
46" (L) 18" (W) 20" (H) |
1 year |
300 lb |
Non-skid diamond plated footplate 11 gauge steel |
8 Reviews 4.6
|
|
|
$ |
36" (L) 17" (W) 14.5" (H) |
NA |
220 lb |
Multi-function 6 foam rollers Push Up grips |
493 Reviews 4.4 |
|
|
$$$ |
36" (L) 24" (W) 24" (H) |
Lifetime |
300+ lb |
11 gauge steel Adjustable rear cushion and foot holders Thick foam padding |
74 Reviews 4.7 |
|
|
$$ |
44" (L) |
Lifetime |
300 lb |
11 gauge steel frame Adjustable foot holder and rear cushion Resistance band attachment points |
NA |
|
|
$ |
39" (L) |
NA |
265 lb |
Wheels for easy transport 3 Adjustable rear cushion angles Multi-functional |
204 Reviews 4.4 |
|
|
$ |
43.3" (L) 19" (W) 33" (H) |
1 year |
330 lb |
Multi-functional Foldable with easy transport wheels Fully adjustable |
2,896 Reviews 4.6 |
|
|
$$$ |
46" (L) 21.5" (W) 20.5" (H) |
NA |
NA |
Sit up bench Fully Adjustable Easy transport wheels |
72 Reviews 4.9 |
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A SISSY SQUAT MACHINE FOR YOUR GYM?
When shopping for a sissy squat machine, you need to look at a number of aspects to make sure you purchase the correct one. Below are a few of the common criteria you should consider before you part ways with your hard-earned cash.
1. Size:
Most sissy squat machines on the market will have a similar footprint of 3+ feet long, 2+ feet wide, and 2+ feet high. That said, there are some sissy squat machines that are more compact or even offer the ability to fold it up to store it away when not in use. Just keep in mind the space you have available in your gym space before you make it to save yourself from the headache of a possible return process.
2. Build:
As a general rule of thumb, the best sissy squat machines will be constructed from heavy-duty steel tubing. The highest grade steel used in commercial sissy squat machines is 11 gauge which should come with a maximum weight capacity of 300+ pounds and is usually accompanied by a long or lifetime warranty. You can be rest assured that if a manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty that their products are built of high-quality materials.
Other aspects to look at on a sissy squat machine are the foot holder pads and rear cushion to keep the lower leg vertical. Ideally, these parts of the squat machine should be comprised of thick foam while having a durable covering like PU leather or HeftyGrip vinyl. These details will render your machine more comfortable when using it and will also last longer.
3. Features:
Not all sissy squat machines are built alike; some are meant for just sissy squats, while others offer more functionality in terms of exercise possibilities. If your mission is to just work on your sissy squats, then you might want to opt for a heavy-duty machine that's built with 11 gauge steel that has an adjustable rear cushion and foot holder.
However, if you plan on getting a more rounded workout completed on your new sissy squat machine, then you should look for one that allows you to adjust the rear cushion angle and height just in case you want to do some back or side extensions. You can also find sissy squat machines that have ergonomic grips so that you can perform push-ups as well so you can work the upper body muscles.
Lastly, try to find a sissy squat machine that has some anchor points so that you can use it in tandem with resistance bands, thus making the bodyweight sissy squat more difficult to get those gains you want.
4. Usage:
Refer to the above point about common features to look for depending on your workout routine. If you just want to do sissy squats, then opt for a simple, well-built machine that has some adjustable parts, such as the rear cushion and foot holder foam rollers.
5. Price:
The price range for a sissy squat machine will range from around $100 to $300 depending on the build quality, features, and warranty. For those people who are medium-sized and less than the 200-pound range while also being under 6 feet tall, you should feel safe with a sissy squat machine on the lower end of the pricing tiers.
However, bigger people that want to add more resistance, such as bands or holding kettlebells or other weights when doing sissy squats, then you're looking at more of the $200-$300 range.
6. Online Ratings:
As with buying anything online, an important factor to look at is social proof from others that have purchased and used the product. To find the best sissy squat machines, you should take into account the general reviews coupled with the points from above, including the build quality, warranty, and usage. That said, it's always best to hear from someone firsthand in your circle if they have experience using the product.
At the end of the day, make sure you spend 20-30 minutes reading over both the positive and negative reviews of the product before pulling the trigger.
Benefits Of Sissy Squats
The sissy squat exercise is perhaps the best bodyweight exercise you can do to work the quadriceps and leg muscles. That said, sissy squats, when done with correct form, will also work the core and glutes.
Let's look at a few of the amazing benefits that the sissy squat machine helps with...
1. Isolate Quadriceps:
The main benefit of performing sissy squats is to target the quadriceps as the movement only requires flexion and then extension at the knee. It would be tough to find a better bodyweight exercise to strengthen the quads. The reason why many athletes perform deep sissy squats these days is to balance out their strength, as most people are stronger on the posterior side of the body.
2. Burn Calories:
Sissy squats are an excellent exercise to get your heart pounding and sweat dripping. Besides just engaging your quads, your core will be braced throughout the movement, while the glute and hip flexors also play a role in enabling you to lower into a deep squat and then push back up to a standing position. With different muscle groups engaged you'll be torching calories in no time.
3. Improve Balance:
Sissy squats will help balance out your lower body strength so that your quads are as strong as your hamstrings. This balance will make you steadier on your feet, thus improving your stability. Sissy squats will also help strengthen the musculature and ligaments around the knee joint, which translates to better balance as you move daily life or execute some dynamic movements while playing sports.
Sissy Squat Machine FAQs:
Are sissy squat machines worth it?
Yes, a sissy squat machine is worth it if you're someone who takes their training seriously. This underutilized piece of fitness equipment makes it possible to work the quadriceps without putting added stress on the lower back and knee joints.
Are sissy squats bad for your knees?
Many people would look at a sissy squat and think it's bad for the knees as they come out past the toes, but this exercise isn't bad for the knees assuming you use the correct technique. The sissy squat is technically a bodyweight exercise that is beneficial and safe unless you use a bad form or try to add resistance when your body isn't ready for it. However, if you do feel any pain when doing sissy squats, you should stop immediately.
What exercises can be done on the sissy squat machine?
It obviously depends on the features and functions your sissy squat machine offers, but at the very least, you will be able to perform the sissy squat. However, if you purchase a multi-function machine, then you might have more exercise options, including:
- Lunges
- Push-ups
- Sit-ups
- Deep sissy squat with resistance band
- Back extensions
- Russian twists
- Side Extension
- Medicine ball throws
Do sissy squats build mass?
You can certainly add some mass to your quads by doing sissy squats. The beauty of most of the sissy squat machines on the market these days is that they come with anchor points, so you can turn up the resistance by using some bands during your workout. Transforming this bodyweight exercise into an ample way of building some serious muscle.
Why are sissy squats so hard?
Sissy squats are so tough because they require your quads to do most of the work, thus reducing the engagement of the posterior chain muscles like the hamstrings or spinal erectors. Many people have weaker quads compared to their hamstrings which makes sissy squats seem so hard to do at the beginning.
Summary: WHICH SISSY SQUAT MACHINE IS BEST?
Now that you made it this far, you should be equipped with some knowledge of what to expect when shopping for a sissy squat machine. We hope that this post on the best sissy squat machines helped save you some time in finding a good fit for your needs.
In our opinion, the best sissy squat machine is the Titan Sissy Squat Machine.
As a final recap, here are all of our top picks for the best sissy squat machine:
- The Best Sissy Squat Machine: Titan Sissy Squat Machine
- Best Budget Pick: Goplus 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine
- Best On Amazon: Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
- Most Heavy Duty: Body-Solid Sissy Squat Machine
- Best Multi-Functional: GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine
- Best For Small Spaces: Leikefitness Deluxe Sissy Squat Bench
- Best Beginner Sissy Squat Machine: ALTAS Strength 6005B Sissy Squat
More Best Equipment Roundups:
Kiel DiGiovanni
Author