Smith Rack Using Higher Weight vs. Free Weight Squats But Lo

DaveRCF

I don't have a spotter but there is a squat rack along with a Smith machine in our gym. I like the fact that the Smith machine helps keep my form and I don't need a spotter. In a perfect world I imagine most of you would recommend free weights over the Smith rack but I would be interested in starting up a discussion. I am currently squatting 3X8 at 165lbs using the Smith.

Thanks,

Dave

kdiamond

I hate the Smith. I recently tried it again after years to see if I could push myself on the weight but I found the movement to be very uncomfortable and I don't believe the benefit of being able to lift a few pounds more was worth it to me. I also found that my core was barely engaged which I find to be on the best benefits of lifting with free weights. I can't squat more than 125 with a bar but I was barely doing 130 with the Smith and I felt like I was falling backwards.

Edited to say: I was taught to squat by our Crossfit instructor and he told us if we ever felt uncomfortable or something really wrong we can just drop the weight backwards. I've seen people do it before. We use rubber weights in there which would be ideal but I also use regular metal plates in the gym and I've yet to have to drop them.

DaveRCF

Bump. :blushing:

Taylerr88

smith machines aren't as safe as people make them out to be.. usually you are using a unnatural form which can actually be pretty bad for you..you also work way less muscles in the process..

my opinion you are wasting your time on machines like smith... unless you have a medical reason you can't use free weights.. there is no reason for you not to use them.