The counterbalanced system in the smith machine can lead to one leg doing more work.
Smith machine one leg squat.
Where on a squat rack the weight will be spread out evenly do to the lifter balancing the barbell during lifts.
Like most squats the smith machine back squat targets the quadriceps and glutes.
With the barbell there is only one position feet directly under the bar.
Smith machine one leg squat instructions set up for the exercise by setting the bar in a smith machine to just below shoulder height and loading the weight you want to use.
While a squat rack is a very basic piece of equipment.
In contrast the smith machine follows a fixed path thereby removing the need to balance it so you can bring your feet out to various distances.
The free weight squat is better overall for muscle activation of all leg muscles during the lift but the smith machine squat might be better for activating the glutes and hamstrings.
However there were no differences in activation of trunk stabilizers between free weight and smith machine squats.
On the main part of the machine you ll find a dual function leg developer a press bar a low pulley with a footrest a pec deck station high cable crossovers and a free weight squat rack.
For example a study comparing free weight and smith machine squats found free weight squats produced greater activation of the prime movers in the legs and one leg stabilizer than smith machine squats.
That s a pretty daunting list of workout potential that will keep you busy on many training sessions.
Position a flat bench or some type of raised platform around 2 to 3 feet behind the smith machine your back will be to the bench.
Assuming a lifter maintains an upright torso position in the squat the quadriceps will be used the most.