Smith machines are getting quite popular these days. Most standard Gyms have it included in their retinue of gym equipment. The use of the smith machine to some people has really been a blessing while others yet think its definitely a bad idea!
Smith machines (like every other device) has its advantages and disadvantages. But personally, i think its evenly balanced. I’ll lay down the facts as they are on the table, and allow you to choose for yourself which school of though you wish to belong to.
The advantages associated with the use of the Smith Machine include:
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It reduces the risk of the weight dropping on you while in use because of the provision of a guided linear path which helps to steady and direct the movement of the weights.
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By the inclusion of a feature which enables you to be able to lock the bar into place on the frame of the machine simply by turning your wrist, the need for a spotter is reduced.
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With the Smith Machine, its usually easier to lift more weight because the issue of stablilizing the weight is no longer a matter to be worried over.
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The Smith Machine could be useful to those who are just resuming workouts after an injury because of the restricted range of movement of the bar.
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Also, if you are the type that cannot stand a training partner, this Smith Machine is definitely your best bet.
Now, lets take a look at the disadvantages:
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Because the stabilizing muscles are not being used while using the Smith Machine, the development of your muscles will noty be balanced. Some core muscles will be left out with the larger picture of this situtation being that you’ll end up not getting all you bargained for from the chosen workout routine.
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The Smith Machine encourages the development of a poor form. The straight up and down movement doesnt tally with the natural arc movements which the human body is built to follow and which the other free weight exercises encourage. As a result, the body is forced into an unnatural adjustment to the Smith Machine’s up and down movement and this causes the muscles to be strained and sometimes injuries may result.
The choice of the Smith Machine is a personal one. In my own case, i tend to gravitate towards the smith machine when i’m almost through with my workout routine, at a point in time when i’m tired and not so keen on heavy liftings.
