How to do the Smith Machine Pistol Squat
To begin, first set the bar to a position that best matches your height. Step under it and position the bar across the back of your shoulders.
Take the bar with your hands facing forward, unlock it and lift it off the rack by extending your legs. 3
Move one foot forward about 12 inches in front of the bar. Extend the other leg out in front of you, holding it off the ground. Look forward at all times and maintain a neutral or slightly arched spine. This will be your starting position.
Maintaining good posture, lower yourself by flexing the knee and hip, going down as far as flexibility allows.
Pause briefly at the bottom and then return to the starting position by driving through the heel of your foot, extending the knee and hip.
Sets and reps
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Rest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muscle growth | 3–4 | 8–12 | 2 min |
| Muscular endurance | 2–3 | 15–20 | 1 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
Secondary
The front of your thighs straightens the knee. Squats, leg presses and lunges with deep knee bend build them; leg extensions isolate them.
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