Squats: Smith Machine or Squat Rack?

[atlantaholdem]

Am I cheating on my squats from using the smith machine instead of free squating using the squat rack? I feel like I'm not using my abs to stablize the bar and weight when I'm on the smith. However, it doesn't hurt my knees as bad when I'm squatting using the smith. What do some of you use?

 

[Cynical Simian]

I'd be astonished if anyone on this forum favors the Smith.

 

[super_rice]

Smith machine. Gives me wicked quad pumps and it's safer for my knees. I full snatch in there too.

 

[TomoUK]

if your knees hurt when you squat you might want to look at your technique, but definately dont use a smith machine.

http://www.aceathlete.com/hatch/video.htm

 

[enigma4dub]

Smith machine. Gives me wicked quad pumps and it's safer for my knees. I full snatch in there too.

choking on the scarcasm

 

[Tweakle]

squats in the smith = bad

 

[H_T_]

Come with me if you want to live....

 

[ChinkNasty]

i hope this is a joke

 

[Pikaberdot]

Smith Machine is the greatest invention ever. I especially enjoy benching and squatting with it.

 

[blut wump]

Smith machine. Gives me wicked quad pumps and it's safer for my knees. I full snatch in there too.

I can't top this one.

 

[b fold the truth]

I used one for the first time in about 10 years the other day. No incline bench at the gym and I was just doing high reps with it.

No squats on the smith machine though...ever. In order for them to be safe for me, I'd have to use such a light weight that I can't see it giving me much growth at all.

 

[blueta2]

I used to use the Smith Machine until I realized it was not a good way to squat and when I joined EF and made a thread about it and was informed the machine was not good. I squat without it and am much stronger.