Are you considering making an addition to your home gym? Have you considered purchasing a smith machine?
This piece of fitness equipment allows users to try various squat positions, improve their muscle gains, and add safety to their workouts. It can target various body parts at the same time.
There are numerous factors to consider when selecting the best model, such as the type, floor space, storage, warranty, and maintenance.
Learn more about each shopping factor in detail.
Consider your exercise plan
The first tip to consider when choosing a smith machine is taking your exercise plan into account. Different models offer different types of exercises for users to perform. Therefore, you should devise an exercise plan before you start looking for the perfect model. For instance, some individuals wish to add weightlifting to their regimen for workout optimization, whereas others want to include some bench routines.
Individuals who like performing chin-ups and pull-ups are advised to choose a model with a pull-up bar that’s non-intrusive. If you haven’t come up with an exercise plan yet, you should purchase a smith machine that provides training to the chest, back and leg muscles. See this link, https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/best-chest-exercises, to check out seven top chest exercises for a strong upper body. Fortunately, most products come with that option, meaning you won’t have to worry about choosing the right one.
Choose a type
The following consideration when looking for a smith machine is the type, including angled, commercial, and all-in-one. Angled models are designed with a track whose angle ranges between five and seven degrees. According to some users, this angle accommodates their posture in a much better way, as well as provides a natural motion range. The angle is perfect for targeting glutes.
Commercial models, on the other hand, are built with gyms in mind. Consequently, they are much sturdier, capable of holding more weight and handling more volume. Their design is simplistic, as it includes no bench, cables, and other types of accessories.
All-in-one, otherwise known as multifunctional models, are found in most home gyms. They provide users with a wide range of options for their workouts. They come with lat bars, cables for the handles, and a bench. Some of them are even equipped with a leg extension accessory.
Consider floor space and storage
In terms of size, smith machines are the largest piece of equipment you can find. Make sure you go here to see some of the best smith machines for home gyms. Since they take up plenty of space, you should consider your floor space before making a purchase. There’s supposed to be extra space for adjustments, movement, clean-up, and exercise performance.
You are supposed to take proper space measurements to ensure the machine isn’t stuck in the garage or one of your rooms. Unless you measure the dimensions correctly, not only will you feel uncomfortable during exercising, but you will also be exposed to danger. Given the heaviness of smith machines, you should use some gym mats to protect the floor from damage. They are capable of scratching floor surfaces, such as carpet and timber.
Don’t forget the warranty
Another aspect to bear in mind when choosing a smith machine is the warranty. It usually depends on the model of preference, as some come with a ten-year warranty on frames and parts. Reading the fine print is obligatory, as certain warranties are limited and cover almost nothing.
The provided warranty is an indicator of the product’s quality. The longer the warranty period, the higher the product quality. If you plan to use your smith machine regularly, you should consider spending a bit more.
Consider maintenance
Smith machines aren’t incredibly demanding in terms of maintenance, but they do require some. If you feel the track kind of sticks during a bench press or doing squats, it means you should add lubricant. Lubricants aren’t completely the same, as some of them are more effective in comparison to others. Make sure to choose one that you can spray instead of applying it manually.
Final thoughts
This piece of fitness equipment provides excellent support to your training.
Your home gym will benefit from having it!
Check out our in-home personal training service if you need help using your smith machine.