Best Quadriceps Exercises: Straight Leg Raise vs Quad Set

Bias Check! These are some common exercises performed after a knee surgery and typically are progressed from the quad set to the straight leg raise (SLR) to increase the strength gains. HOWEVER, it depends on what your goal is. Research articles have actually shown that the quad set has better EMG activation of the muscles that cross the knee only. But the SLR is better for activation of the 1 quadriceps muscle that crosses the hip too.
Take Home Message: If still trying to improve strength in non-weightbearing, don't abandon the quad set even if you can progress to the SLR.
(Soderberg et al)