Search results
Oct 26, 2023 · The Smith machine squat gets a bad rap, but it can be a beneficial exercise for growing and strengthening the legs. But how can you get the most out of it? Read on.
Jun 9, 2024 · Is the Smith machine bad for squats? Due to the limited movement restrictions, the Smith machine can place unwanted stress on the back. Therefore, we recommend doing a free-weight squat and possibly using the Smith machine for split squat varieties.
Apr 18, 2018 · Is there a problem with squatting with a Smith Machine and if so how can I solve it or compensate for it? The Smith Machine has been one of the biggest mistakes in strength training equipment, in my opinion.
May 6, 2024 · Smith machine squats are only bad if you try to do them like you would a free weight squat. This is because it puts too much pressure on your joints, particularly your knees and spine. If you place your feet forward, you don't run this risk.
- Stability. With free weights, you have to support all the weight alone and maintain your balance. This can be tricky for those with balance problems, who are recovering from core injury/surgery, or anyone who is still working on developing strong muscles but still don’t quite have sufficient strength.
- Improves Form and Posture. s I said above, because there is no difficulty with keeping your balance, you can pay more attention to the exercise. That means focusing on your posture before and after each rep, and your form throughout the full range of motion.
- Easy for Beginners. This is one of the main reasons that so many people opt for Smith machine squats and rows. Thanks to the machine’s stabilization, you can perform the exercise even if you’ve never squatted, lunged, or rowed before.
- Smith machines are generally very safe. One of the great things about the Smith machine is that you have a lot of cradles/slots/posts at various heights to hook the barbell onto.
May 10, 2023 · Squatting on a Smith Machine is ‘Dangerous’. The reputation problem Smith machines have comes from squats. Squatting on a Smith machine isn’t biomechanically natural and allows people to get into positions they aren’t normally able to manage.
Apr 11, 2022 · The Smith machine, a metal rack with a bar that travels along a fixed path, is used by beginner lifters and bodybuilders alike for squats and bench press variations. It's also scoffed at by many and called "useless," "not functional," and just plain bad.
