Squat (Smith Machine)

A fundamental lower body compound exercise using the smith machine to develop quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings with a guided vertical bar path ideal for beginners.

Instructions

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Tips

• 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.
• The smith machine provides vertical guidance, making it excellent for beginners learning proper squat mechanics.
• Maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement; avoid excessive forward lean.
• Drive through your heels rather than your toes to emphasize the quadriceps and glutes.
• Keep your core engaged throughout the movement for optimal stability and protection of the lower back.