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.
Smith machine one leg squat.
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.
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.
With the barbell there is only one position feet directly under the bar.
The counterbalanced system in the smith machine can lead to one leg doing more work.
Smith machines are generally more expensive than squat racks.
Assuming a lifter maintains an upright torso position in the squat the quadriceps will be used the most.
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.
One major difference between the barbell squat and the smith machine squat is how far you can bring your feet in front.
Like most squats the smith machine back squat targets the quadriceps and glutes.
While a squat rack is a very basic piece of equipment.
However there were no differences in activation of trunk stabilizers between free weight and smith machine squats.
And the sms has also been shown to allow for a greater 1 rm when compared to the fws.
That s a pretty daunting list of workout potential that will keep you busy on many training sessions.