Bodybuilding.com - Smith Machine Squat Exercise Guide and Video

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Smith Machine Squat

Exercise Data

Type: Strength
Main Muscle Worked: Quadriceps
Other Muscles: Calves, Glutes, Hamstrings, Lower Back
Equipment: Machine
Mechanics Type: Compound
Level: Beginner
Sport: No
Force: Push
Your Rating:

9.8

Out of 10

Excellent

Exercise Rating Read Smith Machine Squat Reviews

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Main Muscle: Quadriceps

To begin, first set the bar on the height that best matches your height. Once the correct height is chosen and the bar is loaded, step under the bar and place the back of your shoulders (slightly below the neck) across it.
Hold on to the bar using both arms at each side (palms facing forward), unlock it and lift it off the rack by first pushing with your legs and at the same time straightening your torso.
Position your legs using a shoulder width medium stance with the toes slightly pointed out. Keep your head up at all times and also maintain a straight back. This will be your starting position. (Note: For the purposes of this discussion we will use the medium stance which targets overall development; however you can choose any of the three stances discussed in the foot stances section).
Begin to slowly lower the bar by bending the knees as you maintain a straight posture with the head up. Continue down until the angle between the upper leg and the calves becomes slightly less than 90-degrees (which is the point in which the upper legs are below parallel to the floor). Inhale as you perform this portion of the movement. Tip: If you performed the exercise correctly, the front of the knees should make an imaginary straight line with the toes that is perpendicular to the front. If your knees are past that imaginary line (if they are past your toes) then you are placing undue stress on the knee and the exercise has been performed incorrectly.
Begin to raise the bar as you exhale by pushing the floor with the heel of your foot as you straighten the legs again and go back to the starting position.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Caution: This is not an exercise to be taken lightly. If you have back issues, substitute it with leg presses instead. If you have a healthy back, ensure perfect form and never slouch the back forward as this can cause back injury. Be cautious as well with the weight used; in case of doubt, use less weight rather than more. The squat is a very safe exercise but only if performed properly.

Variations: As previously mentioned, there are various stances that can be used depending on what you want to emphasize.

You can also place a small block under the heels to improve balance.

Same as the Barbell Squat but with a Smith Machine.

Barbell Squat

Muscle Targeted: Quadriceps

9.9

Out of 10

Dumbbell Squat

Muscle Targeted: Quadriceps

8.2

Out of 10

Top 5 Rated Quadriceps Exercises

0 of 0 people found this tip helpful

szafranski13

Tip: Smith Machine Squat	Exercise Rating	9/10
Jan 25, 2010 9:44 AM: when doing this exercise I like to put a flat bench between my legs and have a little wider stance it gives you a great place to settle your squat so you know you are squating as far as you should be. Squats are one of my favorites!!

szafranski13 BodyStats

Height:

5 '5" (1.65m)

Weight:

117 lbs

Up 2.0 lbs

Bodyfat:

No Data

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0 of 0 people found this review helpful

asundseth

Review: Smith Machine Squat	Exercise Rating	10/10
Jan 21, 2010 7:49 AM: This exercise is listed under "quadriceps" but it hits the gluts equally as hard. It actually works the core a litte too as you try to keep good posture througout the movement.