Leg Workouts: Toning Thighs and Strengthening Knees

Toning legs and strengthening the knees requires targeted movements like vastus medialis exercises and lying straight leg raises. Discover safe leg workouts for bad knees and learn which cardio machines are best for joint health.

Exercises to Straighten the Leg

Published Jul,08 2011 | By Nick Ng

Exercises that straighten your leg at your hip and knee joints help increase stride length, loosen tight hamstrings and restore range of motion to an injured knee. They also increase hip and knee stability and mobility, according to physical therapist Gray Cook, author of "Athletic Body in Balance."