Exercise guide

Smith Machine Split Squats

The Smith Machine Split Squat targets the quadriceps and glutes while improving unilateral strength using a fixed bar path.

Category
Strength
Difficulty
Intermediate
Movement
Compound
Bodyweight
No
How to

How to do the Smith Machine Split Squats

  1. 01

    Position the bar across your upper back under the Smith machine.

  2. 02

    Step one foot forward into a split stance.

  3. 03

    Keep your torso upright and core braced.

  4. 04

    Lower your back knee toward the floor by bending your front knee.

  5. 05

    Descend until your front thigh is about parallel to the floor.

  6. 06

    Drive through your front heel to return to the starting position before switching sides.

Performance tips

Cues that matter

  • Keep most of your weight in the front leg
  • Maintain an upright torso throughout
  • Lower under control instead of dropping quickly
Muscles

Muscles worked

Equipment

What you need

Common questions

Frequently asked

What muscles does the Smith Machine Split Squats work?

The Smith Machine Split Squats primarily targets the Glutes. Supporting muscles include Quads.

Is the Smith Machine Split Squats a compound or isolation exercise?

The Smith Machine Split Squats is a compound exercise, meaning it works multiple muscle groups and joints in a single movement.

What equipment do I need for the Smith Machine Split Squats?

You need the following equipment: Smith Machine.

What difficulty level is the Smith Machine Split Squats?

The Smith Machine Split Squats is rated as intermediate difficulty. Some training experience is helpful for performing this exercise safely.

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