Quad exercises

Machine Hack Squat

Also known as: Hack squat · Χακ σκουότ · hack squat machine

Primary
Quads
Equipment
Machine
Level
Beginner
Type
Compound
Suggested rest
2 min

How to do the Machine Hack Squat

  1. Rest your back against the pad with your shoulders under the supports and feet shoulder-width on the platform.

  2. Release the safety handles and brace your core.

  3. Lower under control until your thighs are parallel to the platform or lower.

  4. Push through the platform to stand up without snapping your knees straight.

Sets and reps

GoalSetsRepsRest
Muscle growth3–48–122 min
Muscular endurance2–315–201 min

When you hit the top of the rep range on every set, add 5 kg (10 lb) next session and work back up.

Starting points from training research. Stop each set 1–3 reps short of failure.

Muscles worked

Primary

Quads

Secondary

Glutes

The front of your thighs straightens the knee. Squats, leg presses and lunges with deep knee bend build them; leg extensions isolate them.

Alternatives

Same muscles, similar movement: swap in one of these if the Machine Hack Squat doesn’t suit your gym or your joints.

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Machine quad exercises