Smith Machine Leg Press
Smith Machine Leg Press is a intermediate-level compound in the strength category that primarily works the quads. It also recruits the calves, glutes and hamstrings. It is performed with machine.
How to do it
- 1Position a Smith machine bar a couple feet off of the ground. Ensure that it is resting on the safeties. After loading the bar to an appropriate weight, lie underneath the bar. Place the middle of your feet on the bar, tucking your knees to your chest. This will be your starting position.
- 2Begin the movement by driving through your feet to move the bar upward, extending the hips and knees. Do not lock out your knees.
- 3At the top of the motion, pause briefly before returning to the starting position.
Muscles worked
Primary muscles in filled badges, secondary in grey. Tap for more exercises per muscle.
Tips and common mistakes
- •Keep your core braced and your spine neutral throughout the movement.
- •Add load only once you complete all reps with good form — progressive overload.
- •Press through the full range and avoid snapping the joints into lockout.
- •Prioritize full range of motion over heavy weight with partial reps.
Sets and reps
For hypertrophy: 3–4 sets × 8–12 reps with 1–2 reps in reserve (RPE 7–9) and 1–2 minutes rest. For strength: 3–5 × 4–6 with longer rest.