Opinions on Smith machines

Ironmanpits · Nov 30, 2007

Which do you prefer ... the perfectly vertical ones or the 7 degree angle versions ... I'm looking to buy a commercial grade Smith for home use and I have only used the straight up versions and wanted to know what was considered better.
Thanks!

elvisman99 · Nov 30, 2007

I like them, i do upright rows with em, bent over rows, 1 and a quarter squats w/ em, and sometimes my benches

finny · Nov 30, 2007

I have the angled one and I like it. You would really have to compare them side by side and see which action you like better. I wouldn't think there would be much difference.

LATS · Nov 30, 2007

one is supposed to replicate the natural arc of most movements.. one is straight up and down.. i have used both and had both in the gym i owned..i liked the angeled one for all presses and rows.. i liked the straight one for all upright rows and shrugs ect.. really depends.. some now have the option of both.. you can lock in a angle or straight.. nebula has one like that..

joec22780 · Nov 30, 2007

If i had to pick i would go with the angled smith. Nice doing shrugs and rows on the angled smith..

BOOMSHAKER · Nov 30, 2007

good for going heavy, or when you need strict form.

PlateStacker45 · Nov 30, 2007

I like doing behind the back shrugs and incline bench on them, but the damn hooks are the wrong side on the angled ones. That means your natural grip is automatically pulling the hooks to the closed position rather than away from them. The hooks are always banging on the latches and trying to stop the bar. Pisses me off!