The one question people ask is “are smith machine squats safe?”
This question is an important one because squats are an essential part of any lower body workout routine. Without proper squatting form, you’re going to be losing out on significant gains both in strength and aesthetics.
So, is it worthwhile to use smith machines for squats?
It’s a good question to ask and it’s important to have the answer in hand before creating your workout routine.
This guide will take a look at smith machine squats, their benefits, and tips on completing the movement safely.
Best Smith Machine for Squats: Marcy Smith Machine
Key Features:
- All-in-one Smith Machine and Workout Station
- Multi-Function Weight Bunch
- Seated Linear Bearings
- Free Weight Rack
- Complete Smith Machine Setup
- Chrome Row Handle
The Marcy Smith Machine is among the best home gym smith machines available right now. It’s versatile, robust, and comes power-packed with a wide array of meaningful features. This makes it incredibly useful when it comes to completing a squat-heavy workout.
If you want to feel stronger, fitter, and look better then it’s time to consider investing in this all-in-one workout station.
It has a little bit of everything and is highly recommended!
Are Smith Machine Squats Safe?
Yes, squat machine squats are safe.
Of course, it’s important to note there’s nothing better than good form. Whether you’re using a free weight or an assisted solution such as this, you need to maintain good form throughout the experience.
This is the only way to make sure you don’t end up putting undue stress on your back.
Some experts believe smith machine squats are harmful. This is a myth because there’s incredible control associated with a smith machine. It allows the weight to stay in place as you go up and down. However, it’s still important to not get lazy with your technique. When a person is lazy then it can lead to injury.
Take your time to reduce the weight and see how the machine works. Learn the movement pattern and make appropriate adjustments.
Only when you are used to the machine, start increasing the weights.
This is the only way to ensure you are safe and can start to see gains from smith machine squats.
Benefits of Smith Machine Squats
1. Controlled Movement
The movement is controlled and that’s what makes it safe in the first place.
When you unrack the weight, you’re able to move it up and down without having the barbell slip out of your hands. This alone provides a certain comfort that’s needed while working out.
When a person goes down the “free weight” direction, it requires additional core strength that’s difficult to manage. This is when people end up getting hurt. You have to stay patient and make sure the movement is controlled using a smith machine.
A smith machine is useful because it allows you to learn the actual movement pattern.
You can start to go lower on your squats and burst upwards without feeling like the bar is slipping.
This alone is essential in improving your numbers and making sure you get stronger.
2. Easier to Increase the Weight
Do you want to get stronger and grow bigger?
This is easier said than done but it’s certainly possible with a smith machine. The machine allows you to increase the weight and add more than you otherwise would. As you add weight, the resistance goes up and that’s what you need to make gains.
Take advantage of what a smith machine squat offers. It can be a game-changer.
You will start to notice a change in how your body feels and how strong you are. This is something people start to appreciate as the weight goes up. Instead of plateauing, you can continue to push harder and harder.
3. Improves the Depth of Your Squatting
Squats are often done poorly and it has a lot to do with fear.
People don’t want to get stuck at the bottom of this movement. As a result, they refuse to go past parallel with the barbell.
This is risky and it takes away from the movement. You are never going to build a stronger squat without making sure you get to the bottom of each repetition. This means you have to get your glutes to get as close to the floor as possible.
This is the only way to see tremendous gains throughout the lower body.
When your depth isn’t good enough, this is when adjustments need to be made. One of the best adjustments comes in the form of a smith machine.
4. Safer
Your peace of mind is essential and that’s what smith machine squats offer.
You can walk up to the bar and unrack it without worrying about falling. This alone is essential in allowing you to push through more and more repetitions. You are rarely going to get stuck or fall into a pattern that doesn’t lead to progression.
If you want to progress then it’s best to use the smith machine. It will be a great way to build a stronger physique.
Tips for Smith Machine Squats
1. Learn to Control the Weight
The first thing you need to do is to learn how to control the weight.
This means unracking the bar, holding your posture, and making sure the weight is under control throughout the movement. This means whether you are at the starting position or at the bottom, the bar should remain in your control.
It shouldn’t slip. It shouldn’t sway. It shouldn’t feel like you’re stuck.
This happens when you use the right technique. With squats, you want to keep the core tight throughout the movement and make sure you are on pushing more from your heels. Don’t sit up on your toes as that is when injuries happen.
Stay safe and learn to sit back as you squat (i.e. sitting in a chair). This is how a squat is done properly.
2. Pause at the Top While Unracking
It’s easy for a person to look at the smith machine and feel safe. They assume it’s all about quickly unracking the weight and powering through the set.
Well, this is the worst mistake a person can make!
You have to breathe, tighten your core, and then begin the set. This means unracking the barbell and holding it in place until everything is firm.
This is the only way to complete the movement without wasting energy or putting yourself in danger.
3. Don’t Be Afraid of the Safety Mechanisms
The smith machine has safety mechanisms in place to catch the bar. This is what makes it different to free weights.
Well, you should look to take advantage of these mechanisms. Don’t be afraid to use them if you get stuck.
Simply rack the weight and stay safe.
This is something people refuse to do and that’s a mistake. Get more out of your workout by using the safety mechanisms to your advantage.
Final Thoughts
Are smith machine squats safe?
Yes, they are truly as safe as you want them to be and highly recommended by fitness experts.
If needed, you can easily start to see real progression by heading down this path. Don’t be afraid to include them in your workout routine as soon as you have access to the best smith machine on the market.
