About this exercise
The Smith machine front squat targets the quadriceps and glutes, with the front-loaded bar and guided path helping you stay upright and balanced.
Smith Machine Front Squat
Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Smith Machine Front Squat.
EasyQuadriceps
How to Perform
- Set the bar at upper-chest height and rest it across the front of your shoulders
- Cross your arms or use a clean grip to hold the bar in place
- Unrack the bar and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, slightly forward
- Bend your knees and lower into a squat until your thighs are parallel to the floor
- Drive through your heels to push back up to the starting position
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions
Muscle Activation
Primary
Quadriceps
Secondary
Glutes
Common Mistakes
Common mistakes content is coming soon.
About the Smith Machine Front Squat
The Smith Machine Front Squat 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.