Talk:Smith machine

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[edit] Weight Differential

What is the weight differential of a Smith Machine?

If you are referring to how much the bar is counter balanced, it differs from machine to machine. --Son0rouS 14:24, 22 August 2006 (UTC)

I think he may be wondering what is the weight difference between lifting on a smith machine versus an actual free weight. From working out with a couple of different lifters in the gym, it seems apparent that those who can lift "225lbs" on the Smith Machine(3-5 reps) can only seem to lift about 185lbs (1-3 reps) on a regular barbell.

[edit] Dont like it...

I dont like it. I over twisted my wrist trying to get it off the rack one time....really messed me up for a few weeks. Also, i dont think you really get the gains you would with free weights. I've seen guys load up on it when flat benching, but can't do nowhere the same on regular free bench. However, I do think its great for shoulder workouts though...

It does provide a great workout if you are alone without a spotter. I tend to use it when my gym partner is not around or when i dont feel like asking for a spot.

[edit] Balancing the Weights on a Smith Machine

I have had several personal trainers giving me conflicting information on the weights you add to the Smith machine. One trainer says because it is counter-balanced, you can put different weights at each end and it wont impact the repetition (where a barbell would leave you off-balanced, and too much weight at one end). Other trainers have told me to place the same weight on both the left and right sides of the bar. I tried my own experiment placing two 45lb. plates on one side and leaving the other side empty. When I bench pressed, it did feel like one side (the side with the weights placed) was a bit more stressed or is this my imagination?Cjnj926 02:48, 24 December 2006 (UTC)