Smith Curtsey Lunge - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Smith Curtsey Lunge

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Smith Curtsey Lunge.

MediumGlutesQuadriceps

About this exercise

The Smith machine curtsy lunge is a unilateral lower-body exercise where you step one leg diagonally behind the other in a curtsy pattern, providing a unique angle of hip loading that emphasizes the glutes and inner thighs while the Smith machine adds stability.

How to Perform

  • Position the Smith machine bar across your upper back as you would for a squat
  • Stand with feet hip-width apart and unlock the bar
  • Step one foot diagonally behind and across your body, placing it behind the opposite foot
  • Lower your rear knee toward the floor while keeping your front knee tracking over your toes
  • Descend until your front thigh is roughly parallel to the floor
  • Drive through the heel of your front foot to return to the starting position
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching legs

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesQuadriceps
Secondary
HamstringsInner thighs

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Smith Curtsey Lunge

The Smith Curtsey Lunge is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.