Smith Machine Squats

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Quick answer

Smith Machine Squats is a beginner compound Smith machine exercise that mainly works the quads, with the glutes assisting.

Written by the GymStreak coaching team

Muscles worked

Front
Back

Primary

Secondary

How to do Smith Machine Squats

  1. 1

    Stand up straight with feet shoulder width apart and turned out slightly. Hold the smith machine barbell on top of your traps and look forward. This is your starting position.

  2. 2

    Unhook the barbell. While looking forwards and keeping your back straight, squat down until your thighs are parallel with the floor.

  3. 3

    Pause for a second, then press down with your heels to return the starting position.

Form cues

  • You can perform this exercise with your heels elevated on a plate if you lack the flexibility to go down far enough.
  • Make sure your legs never go less that 90 degree angle between your upper and lower legs as this places undue stress on the knee joint.
  • Perform the reps slowly and in a controlled manner. Technique first, weight second!.

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