Form cues
- Keep core braced
- Press evenly with both feet
- Full range of motion
- Maintain foot flatness
Exercise
Smith Machine Leg Press
Upper legs, smith machine
A machine-based variation of leg press performed with a Smith machine barbell in a supine or incline position.
Target: quadriceps. Also works: gluteus maximus, hamstrings, adductors.
Steps
- Set the safety stops and load the appropriate weight.
- Lie under the Smith bar and position feet wider than shoulder-width on the bar.
- Unrack the bar by rotating your feet upward.
- Lower the bar slowly toward your torso until legs form roughly a 90-degree angle.
- Press the bar up by extending your knees and hips.
Common mistakes
- Incorrect foot placement
- Pressing with toes only
- Shallow movement
- Letting knees cave inward
Breathing
Inhale as you lower the bar, exhale as you press upward.
In the app, search for Smith Machine Leg Press and add it to a workout.