Hack squat machine

With a padded backrest, shoulder supports and a sloping track, a hack squat machine holds you in a guided standing position. You place your feet on a broad platform and bend and straighten your legs as the carriage travels along its rails. The movement feels stable and controlled, though the fixed path can take a little getting used to.

It is mainly used for squat training that works your thighs, hips and bottom. Because the machine supports your back and guides the direction of travel, you can focus on steady leg movement and foot placement. Changing where your feet sit on the platform can alter how the exercise feels, while the safety stops help you enter and leave.

You may like this machine if you want extra support while learning a squat pattern or prefer not to balance a free bar. It takes up considerable floor space, so you are more likely to use one at a gym than at home. You can scale the effort through the machine’s load and limit the depth at first. Squatting towards a sturdy chair is a simple everyday alternative.