Quads · Smith machine · Intermediate
How to do Smith Front Squat (Clean Grip)
The smith front squat (clean grip) is a lower body exercise performed on a smith machine, targeting the glutes with significant involvement from the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and core. The clean grip requires good shoulder and wrist mobility, and the movement demands proper technique to maintain balance and safety.

- Also works
- Hamstrings, Calves and Core
- Equipment
- Smith machine
- Level
- Intermediate
- Category
- Legs
How to do Smith Front Squat (Clean Grip), step by step
- Set up the smith machine with the barbell at shoulder height.
- Stand facing the barbell with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Grasp the barbell with an overhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Step back and position the barbell on your front shoulders, resting it on your collarbone and deltoids.
- Keep your chest up, back straight, and core engaged.
- Lower your body by bending at the knees and hips, as if sitting back into a chair.
- Continue lowering until your thighs are parallel to the ground or slightly below.
- Pause for a moment, then push through your heels to return to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Muscles worked
Smith Front Squat (Clean Grip) works your quads and glutes as the main movers, with help from your hamstrings, calves and core.
Track Smith Front Squat (Clean Grip) in SPLYT
Smith Front Squat (Clean Grip) is already in SPLYT’s exercise library. Log your sets, reps and weight on iPhone or Apple Watch, with last time’s weights already filled in.
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