Tips. To do a Smith machine incline step up: Set the bar high on the Smith machine, Stand facing the machine, with a bench adjust the bench to 30-45° front of you. Place one foot on the bench, and hold the bar with one hands. Push through your front foot, straightening your leg holding the dumbbell on your side or on top of your legs and lifting yourself up. Lower back down and repeat. Keep your core engaged and back straight. Use a weight that allows proper form. Focus on pushing through your f