Smith Machine

[dtr98]

was thinking of getting a smith machine, i work out at home and use more or less as a spotter.

anyone have any input??
thanks

[Jock191]

I personal cant stand smith machines.They put alot of undo stress on your joints just b/c they take you body out of its natural form of motion which is a curve and forces it to be linear. Just my .02

[bluethunder]

Personally I like smith machines as they have many uses besides legs. I can push myself if I go heavier & no spotter since I always use the saftey catches. I you have the room for one go for it.

[Soldier of Misfortune]

I personal cant stand smith machines.They put alot of undo stress on your joints just b/c they take you body out of its natural form of motion which is a curve and forces it to be linear. Just my .02

YAUP. Proper form on bench, squats, deadlift, or anything you would use a smith for should have a curved motion instead of straight up n down. get a power rack with an adjustible bench and an olympic bar.

[LNK]

Smith machines do have their uses. You can lift heavier than usual because of the fixed ROM and you dont need a spotter. If you can swing it, we have a machine that works like a smith without the fixed range of motion. I'll try to explain it to ya.

Instead of riding on rails, the bar hangs from coated cables. There's a sensor in the bar so as soon as you let off pressure, it locks into place. It's pretty handy to have when you dont have a spotter. Plus it has a upper and lower pulley attatchment on the backside with a stack. Im not sure on cost, but can guess it isnt cheap.

If I was in your predicument, without a lot of cash, I would just buy a power rack. Just my two cents worth.

LNK