Mixed
Drop-set training on leg extensions produces greater non-uniform hypertrophy in the proximal and mid-rectus femoris compared to traditional training, while yielding equivalent strength gains and no differential hypertrophy in the vastus lateralis.
If your goal is to specifically target the Rectus Femoris (the muscle in the middle of your thigh) using leg extensions, using drop sets (reducing weight after failure) may yield better growth than standard sets. However, do not expect this to make you stronger or grow your Vastus Lateralis (outer thigh) any more than standard training would. For general strength and overall quad size, standard training is equally effective and likely less fatiguing.
Our findings indicate a potential benefit of the drop-set method for inducing non-uniform hypertrophic gains in the RF muscle pursuant to leg extension training. The strategy did not promote an advantage in improving hypertrophy of the VL, nor in strength-related measures, compared to traditional training.
Why this rating
Randomized controlled trial with within-subject design, adequate power, and objective ultrasound measures, though limited to young, recreationally active men.
Source
Drop-Set Training Elicits Differential Increases in Non-Uniform Hypertrophy of the Quadriceps in Leg Extension Exercise
Dorian Varović et al. · Sports · 2021
DOI 10.3390/sports9090119
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