Glutes exercise · smith machine
Smith Hack Squat
The smith hack squat is a smith machine exercise that targets the glutes, with the quadriceps, hamstrings and calves assisting.
- Target muscle
- Glutes
- Also works
- Quadriceps, hamstrings, calves
- Equipment
- Smith machine
- Body part
- Upper legs
How to do the smith hack squat
- Adjust the barbell on the smith machine to an appropriate height for your body.
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly pointed outwards.
- Position yourself under the barbell, resting it on your upper traps and shoulders.
- Grasp the barbell with an overhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Engage your core and keep your chest up as you unrack the barbell.
- Take a step back and position your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Bend your knees and lower your body down, keeping your chest up and back straight.
- Continue descending until your thighs are parallel to the ground or slightly below.
- Pause for a moment at the bottom, then push through your heels to return to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Sets and reps
For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.
Muscles worked
The main muscle is the glutes. The quadriceps, hamstrings and calves work as secondary muscles. See all glute exercises or every smith machine exercise.
