Hamstring exercises: choose by purpose.

Train hip extension and knee flexion with hinges and curl variations. Compare practical options and choose movements by purpose, equipment and progression.

DIRECT ANSWER

Hamstring exercises are movements used to train hip extension and knee flexion with hinges and curl variations. Exercise choice should fit the athlete, equipment and weekly programme rather than a universal ranking.

What belongs in this group

Train hip extension and knee flexion with hinges and curl variations.

Common options

These examples cover distinct setups rather than a ranked list.

  • Romanian deadlift
  • Seated leg curl
  • Lying leg curl
  • Good morning

How to choose

Include both a hinge and a knee-flexion pattern when the programme needs complete direct hamstring work.

Keep the chosen movement stable long enough to compare performance, unless pain, equipment or programme fit requires a change.

Catalogue quality

Bulk Coach's exercise catalogue contains names, instructions, muscles, equipment, movement patterns and substitutions. Individual exercise URLs remain outside the sitemap until their instructions and added programming guidance receive a recorded founder review.

Sources and further reading

  1. Free Exercise DB public-domain source
Updated 7 August 2026Reviewed by James Wood, founder