10 Best Sissy Squat Machines in 2023

10 Best Sissy Squat Machines – Quick Summary

As one of the three big powerlifting movements, squats remain a hugely popular compound movement used by recreational gym-goers to elite athletes with a range of health and fitness goals.

Squats use a fundamental movement pattern that requires multiple muscle groups and joints to work together and provide a host of proven benefits which include improvements in muscular strength, mobility, sports performance, and body composition. 

A popular squat variation known as the sissy squat uses the same movement pattern but with your legs hooked under a bar and upper calves flat against a pad. Your hip joints and hip flexors work to flex and extend your knees as you lower down to the ground, pushing your hips back. While the name may suggest it, it’s certainly not an exercise to take lightly. 

Whether you include deep sissy squats as a stand-alone exercise or alongside something else, adding them to your gym workout gives you a great way to increase your leg strength, improve your body composition, and develop your functionality. 

With different sissy squat machines varying in construction, price, and features, we’ve broken down the best 10 options below. 

1. Best Sissy Squat Machine: Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine
2. Runner Up Sissy Squat Machine: Body Solid GSS50 
3. Best Multifunctional Sissy Squat Machine: Atlas Strength Sissy Squat Station
4. Runner Up Multifunctional Sissy Squat Machine: Woozier 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine
5. Best Budget Pick: Goplus Deep Squat Machine 
6. Our Premium Pick: Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-function Sissy Squat 
7. Best Sissy Squat with Resistance Bands: Seanleecore Sissy Squat Machine
8. Most Comfortable Sissy Squat Machine: GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine
9. Best Simple Sissy Squat Machine: ComMax Sissy Squat Machine
10. Best Looking Sissy Squat Machine: Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine

10 Best Sissy Squat Machines Reviewed

We’ve broken down each of the machines in detail and explained why each one deserves a place on our top 10 list below:

1. Best Sissy Squat Machine: Titan Fitness Sissy Squat Machine

The Titan Fitness Sissy Squat is a commercial-grade machine constructed from 11-gauge steel that has been finished with a black powder coating to protect it from scratches and rusting. The durable steel construction gives it a good weight capacity of 300 pounds which should be suitable for most user sizes.

The compact-looking leg machine design measures 46“ L x 18“ W x 16-20“ H meaning it can easily fit into most home gym spaces if you are struggling for room. It offers a large range of adjustment options, with four calf foam roller settings from 5-8” and adjustable calf pad positions ranging from 16-20″.

With this, you’re able to alter the sissy squat machine according to your body shape and workout goals, giving you a more comfortable experience.

The diamond-textured large footplate provides an excellent lifting base for pushing down as you squat and stops your feet from moving around as you exercise. At the bottom of the frame, four rubber feet provide protection to the machine itself and the gym floor. 

Titan Fitness has designed the sissy squat machine so it can be also used as an ab crunch or sit-up lever point.

Pros                                        

✅ Several adjustment options for the calf pad and foot rollers

✅ Protective rubber feet 

✅ Large diamond-textured footplate

✅ 300 lbs weight capacity

✅ Durable 11-gauge steel construction

Cons

❌ Only 2 workout options offered 

2. Runner Up Sissy Squat Machine: Body Solid GSS50 

The Body Solid GES50 sissy squat features a user-friendly design, with transport wheels and non-slip handles that stick far out at the back of the frame. Alongside this, Body Solid has included some resistance anchor points for banded exercises. 

The frame is built for commercial use, with the 11-gauge steel able to support up to 300 pounds of weight. It measures 43.5“ L x 24“ W x 19“ H making it a mid-sized sissy squat out of my top ten choices. 

The thick foam calf roller pad can be adjusted vertically via the red knob at the middle of the frame. The foot rollers are also made from thick foam but can’t be adjusted which is something the model can improve on. 

At the bottom, the extra wide, non-slip footplate is ergonomically designed to fit in with the machine design. It also comes with a lifetime warranty. 

Pros                                        

✅ Lifetime warranty

✅ Ergonomically designed footplate

✅ 11-Gauge steel construction

✅ Transport wheels and non-slip handles

Cons

❌ The foot rollers don’t adjust

3. Best Multifunctional Sissy Squat Machine: Atlas Strength Sissy Squat Station

The Atlas Strength sissy squat uses a rather different design than all the other machines I’ve reviewed, with more of a sissy squat/ bench hybrid combination. 

Like the other sissy squats I’ve reviewed, it has the same calf pad and foot roller combination but with a decline bench attached to the back behind the rear cushion. This gives you the freedom to perform various ab exercises alongside your sissy squats. 

Each of the machine components are fully adjustable, with the bench folding fully flat if you need it too. The frame measures 46“ L x 17“ W x 20“ H and is constructed from alloy steel. This gives it a decent max user capacity of 265 pounds.

The bottom of the frame combines a T-shaped design with four large rubber foot pads to keep it firmly against the gym floor when you exercise.

Pros                                        

✅  Decline bench to work your abs 

✅ Each component is fully adjustable 

✅ Big transport wheels at the front 

✅ T-shaped bottom frame 

Cons

❌ Slightly more expensive 

4. Runner Up Multifunctional Sissy Squat Machine: Soozier 3-in-1 Sissy Squat Machine

The Soozier 3-in-1 Sissy Squat is a multifunctional exercise machine designed for three functional movement patterns – sissy squats, press-ups, and sit-ups. If you’re looking for something that offers you a full body conditioning and strength-building workout or aid other exercises, it’s a fantastic choice.

Made from durable steel, the machine frame has a maximum capacity of 264 pounds and is finished in a black powder coating. The dimensions of the machine itself are 38“ L x 20“ W x 18-22.7“ H which means it has a very small footprint when compared to my top ten choices. 

At the bottom, the non-slip foot plate is textured to keep your feet firmly secured when lifting. The four rubber suction cups prevent the frame from moving and protect your gym floor and frame from unnecessary wear and tear.

As a multifunctional machine, the press-up handles are nicely situated at the front with rubber sleeves for improved user comfort. The thick foam rollers have four adjustment options allowing you to move them if you’re doing a sissy squat or sit up. 

The big adjustable pad is also made from thick EVA foam and has seven height adjustment settings. The unit can be purchased in two different color choices and features the Soozier branding on the calf pad. 

Pros                                        

✅ Multifunctional  

✅ Seven calf pad adjustment options 

✅ Durable EVA foam construction 

✅ Two color choices 

Cons

❌ Might be too small for bigger users 

5. Best Budget Pick: Goplus Deep Squat Machine 

Whilst the Goplus Sissy Squat machine is a multifunctional 8-in-1 piece of fitness equipment, it’s the budget-friendly price point offering excellent value for money that makes it stand out.

As an 8-in-1 trainer, you have options to train your full body including your arms, legs, and core muscles. It offers excellent adjustability, with 11 calf pad height options and 3 rear cushion angle options. On top of this, the foot rollers have 6 height adjustment options.

The iron frame can support up to 265 pounds of extra weight and measures 38“ L x 23“ W x 18.5-30“ H.

For added stability, the bottom of the frame uses a T-shape design which helps to keep the machine from rocking about. The large textured footplate wraps around the sides of the frame to give you plenty of foot space.

Around the bottom, you have ring anchor attachments for resistance bands. The frame also features transport wheels allowing you to easily transport the sissy squat 

Positives:                                           

✅ Excellent value for money 

✅ Ring anchor attachments 

✅ Multiple pad Height and angle adjustment options 

✅ Transportation wheels 

Could be better:

❌ The frame is quite narrow which may become unstable even with the T-frame 

6. Our Premium Pick: Leikefitness Deluxe Multi-function Sissy Squat 

If you’re looking for a premium piece of gym equipment that looks great and performs well, the Leikefitness Deluxe sissy squat is the right choice for you. It may be slightly more expensive but with the extra cost comes premium frame and padding finishes.

The sturdy steel frame measures 43.3“ L x 19“ W x 33“ H and can support up to 330 pounds which is plenty for most gym users even at the larger end. 

The Unique adjustable T-shaped frame end allows you to customize the length according to the exercise that you’re performing, 

At the end of the frame, the T-shape length can be adjusted allowing you to customize the dimensions according to the exercise. This makes the sissy squat suitable for other exercises such as lower back extensions.

Both the foot roller and rear calf pad are finished using premium PU leather which improves durability and feels comfortable against the skin. 

If you’re looking to store it away, the frame folds in by adjusting the calf and foot pads inwards. If you want to store it when not in use, the frame folds nicely in by moving the foot rollers and rear calf pad to the maximum angle.

Pros

✅ Premium PU leather finish on the padding areas

✅ Adjustable T-frame length                                     

✅ Foldable design allows it to be stored both vertically or horizontally 

✅ Two color options available 

Could be better:

❌ The assembly has been reported to be tricky and time-consuming 

7. Best Sissy Squat with Resistance Bands: Seanleecore Sissy Squat Machine

The Seanleecore sissy squat machine offers a unique design, allowing it to be used as a sissy squat, hip thrust, and anchor point for a set of resistance bands. It’s the perfect lower-body exercise aid if you’re someone who loves to use resistance bands during your workout.

Both exercise options are extremely easy to do and switch between, with setups at opposite ends of the frame. Use the hip thirst cushion for hip thrusts and calf and foot pads for sissy squats.

What’s particularly great about Seenleecore is the included pair of resistance bands and a hip belt. This gives you everything you need to start exercising.

The frame is constructed from alloy steel and finished with a black powder coating. At the bottom, the non-slip footplate is nicely textured with multiple suction points underneath to keep it secure.

All of the three padded areas use polyurethane for added comfort. The calf pad offers 5 adjustment options from 15.3-20.5“ which should accommodate multiple user heights.

Pros                                          

✅ A pair of resistance bands and anchor points are included 

✅ The hip thrust offers another exercise option not seen in many other sissy squats 

✅ Each pad is encased in sort polyurethane 

✅ 6 height adjustment options 

Cons

❌ With a larger frame it probably isn’t suited to smaller gym spaces 

8. Most Comfortable Sissy Squat Machine: GYMAX Sissy Squat Machine

The GYMAX sissy squat machine has an adjustable leg pad cushion with a polyurethane cover and soft foam rollers that adjust from 6“ to 8.5“. Both cushions can be set into four different fixed positions and sit comfortably against the skin when you squat down. It’s our top pick most comfortable sissy squat.

Made from hardened steel, the sissy squat frame can support up to 330 pounds of user weight. With dimensions of 36“ L x 21.5“ W x 16-19“ H, it’s one of the most compact options on our top ten list.

Alongside sissy squats, the GYMAX machine functions as a press-up aid with cushioned handles and a sit-up anchor point giving you three exercises in one piece of kit. 

At the back of the frame, the T-shape stops it from rocking side to side, with the four large rubber feet keeping it firmly to the ground and protecting your home gym surfaces. 

Pros                                     

✅ Polyurethane back cover

✅ Soft foam foot rollers 

✅ T-Shape frame for added durability  

✅ Well-designed press-up handles 

✅ Large 300-pound user weight capacity 

Cons

❌ No transport wheels at the front 

9. Best Simple Sissy Squat Machine: ComMax Sissy Squat Machine

If you prefer a more minimalist gym design, the ComMax sissy squat machine would fit into your home gym set up perfectly. The design is simple but covers all the basics well enough to make our top 10 list. 

The ComMax frame measures 35“ L x 18“ W x 16.5 – 18.9“ H and is constructed using hardened steel. It has a max user capacity of 250 pounds which is lower than some of my other choices but should still accommodate most users. 

The frame has large rubber feet at either end and built-in transport wheels at the front. The press-up handles are conveniently located at the back allowing you to easily pick the sissy squat up and roll it to a different location if you need extra home gym space.

The back calf pad can be adjusted to six different heights from 16“-19“, offering a good range of squat lever positions. The foot rollers are made from PU leather and can be easily adjusted into six horizontal positions via the black knob at the top of the frame. 

At the bottom of the frame, the U-shaped resistance band anchor points give you a range of other exercise choices alongside sissy squats, sit-ups, and press-ups. 

Pros:                                           

✅ Simple, minimalistic design

✅ The U-Shaped frame adds extra stability 

✅ U-shaped resistance anchor points at the front of the foot rollers 

✅ Two frame color choices 

Cons

❌ No mention of any powder-coating on the frame 

10. Best Looking Sissy Squat Machine: Element Fitness Sissy Squat Machine

The Element Fitness sissy squat machine uses the same design that you see in most commercial gyms, with a black and gray color scheme and nicely contoured padding. It also features subtle branding at the back of the frame and on the side of the foot roller pads. It’s our best-looking machine choice and would look great as part of any home gym setup. 

The heavy-duty frame is made of 11-gauge steel tubing with a gray powder-coated finish for added protection. The machine measures 36.5“ L x 20.5“ W x 8“ H giving it a compact size and weighs just 45 pounds allowing you to carry it around. It doesn’t have any transport wheels or a carry handle which is something to improve on for future models.

In terms of adjustment options, the large calf pad and thick foam foot rollers can be adjusted into several vertical and horizontal positions via the black dials conveniently located on the frame. The large non-skid foot plate features a diamond texturing pattern to improve grip whether you’re squatting, doing sit-ups, or using the sissy squat for something else.

Pros:                                           

✅ 11-Gauge stainless steel frame

✅ Lifetime warranty  

✅ Extra-large contoured calf pad 

✅ Diamond textured foot plate  

Cons

❌ No press-up handles

The following table summarises the main points of each sissy squat machine and compares them side by side to help you make the right choice:

Why Buy a Sissy Squat Machine?

Contrary to the name, a sissy squat machine have several benefits: 

Quadriceps Isolation 

A sissy squat movement requires your knee joints to flex and extend whilst keeping your body in an upright position due to the pad positions. Therefore, your quadriceps are heavily targeted. 

Develop Core Musculature

Throughout the movement, your core needs to be braced to keep your head up and chest out with a neutral back. Alongside developing functional movement patterns, sissy squats are a great core strength builder. 

Low-impact Exercise

Sissy squats are very effective even with a small weight plate held out in front of you or using no weight at all. With the correct movement, you can overload your quad muscles with a lower amount of knee joint stress.

Improved Muscle Coordination 

As your legs are locked in, your quads are forced to be the prime movers. This is contrary to most popular leg exercises where your hamstrings tend to take over without you knowing.

This helps with overall leg proportions and coordination between your leg muscles.

Buyer’s Guide for Sissy Squat Machines

Consider the main factors below before purchasing a sissy squat machine:

Construction

Construction refers to the frame metal, padding materials, and overall build quality. Check the quality of the metal used and whether or not its powder coated. Generally, the better the quality of the metal the higher the weight capacity. Better padding materials provides a more comfortable workout experience and improves overall durability. 

Versatility

Sissy squat machines feature a range of exercise options, with the frame design determining how many. Possible exercise choices include sissy squats, press-ups, sit-ups, resistance band work, and abdominal exercises.

Check how many exercises can be performed on the sissy squat machine and compare them to your workout goals before purchasing. 

Portability

With the right added features, portable sissy squat machines can be easy to put away or move around. Check for features such as transportation wheels, floor stabilizers, and a carry handle. Consider the overall weight and dimensions of the sissy squat as well. 

Conclusion

Sissy squat machines make a great investment if you’re looking for a versatile piece of equipment that isolates your quad muscles and offers a range of other exercise choices. Most models are inexpensive and make a great additon to any home gym setup.

The sissy squats I’ve reviewed represent ten of the best machine choices for your home gym. Consider the main factors above before choosing a suitable one so that it meets your health and fitness goals.