Breathing
Inhale before or during the controlled descent, then exhale as you stand. Maintain trunk support without holding your breath for the whole repetition.
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The Smith Machine Leg Press primarily works the quadriceps, with the calves, glutes and hamstrings supporting the movement. It is a strength movement performed with machine.

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Movement instructions
Position 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.
Begin the movement by driving through your feet to move the bar upward, extending the hips and knees. Do not lock out your knees.
At the top of the motion, pause briefly before returning to the starting position.
Technique guidance
Inhale before or during the controlled descent, then exhale as you stand. Maintain trunk support without holding your breath for the whole repetition.
General guidance based on the exercise and equipment. It is not personal coaching or medical advice.
Your progress
Keep the same machine setup, range of motion and recording method when comparing Smith Machine Leg Press sessions.
Weight, repetitions and completed sets.
Example: 3 sets of 8 reps at 30 kg. Next time, record the actual result, even if it is the same.
Look for more repetitions at the same weight, or a heavier weight for comparable repetitions. Total weight lifted also changes when you add sets, so it is not a strength score.
Read the tracking guideThe examples show how to keep a record. They are not workout targets or a personalised training plan.
See how Jijibisha tracks your progressMuscles
Muscle guide
Quadriceps is the primary muscle group. The lighter highlights show the supporting muscles involved in the movement.
Swap it
Different equipment, same muscle
These movements also target the quadriceps using something else.
Related
Related movements
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