Smith Machine Leg Press

Smith Machine Leg Press is a resistance exercise - strength exercise involving Quadriceps, Gluteus maximus. Use these steps to learn the movement and work with your coach to choose a suitable level.

Last updated: 2026-10-31 · DynPerformance

Primary muscles: Quadriceps, Gluteus maximus
Secondary muscles: Adductor magnus, Hamstrings
Exercise type: Resistance exercise - strength

Exercise technique

Suitable setup
Use only a setup with secure support and safeguards suitable for pressing with your feet.
Lower limit
Set stops that prevent the bar from approaching your torso.
Lying position
Lie on your back beneath the bar with your head and pelvis on the floor.
Foot contact
Place the middle of both feet against the bar so they cannot slip.
Press
Extend your knees and hips to move the bar upward.
Upper limit
Stop without forcefully locking your knees.
Lower
Lower the bar under control and seat it fully on the safety stops.

Key technique points

Do not treat a standard slippery bar as a safe foot platform.
Do not reposition your feet during the movement.
Do not start beneath a loaded bar without safety stops.
Do not lift your pelvis off the floor.
Keep pressure even through both feet.
Do not move out from underneath before securing the bar.

Common mistakes

Slippery contact

The feet can slip off the narrow bar surface.

Missing stops

The lower limit of the bar cannot be safely maintained.

Pelvic curling

Excessive depth disrupts lower-back support.

One foot slipping

The load is no longer evenly distributed between sides.

Knee lockout

An abrupt, hard stop occurs at the top.

Repositioning feet under load

The area of support suddenly decreases.

Frequently asked questions