Smith Machine for bent-over rows

[Harry815]

I know using the smith machine is frowned upon, but is it a good starting step for a beginner? It helps with the awkward form associated with bent over rows for someone whose new to lifting right?

[Ninjathoskinny]

Start out with high reps of 20 light weight BOR and 20 reps single hand dumbell rows to work on form and balance. Keep abs tight to help stabilize. Additionally work on hip flexibility. Should take 4-5 sessions to perfect.

[chazzy1864]

I wouldn't use smith machine to acquire form of free weight exercises. Practice teh free weight variation to get better at it.

I'm not against using smith at all, but it is not a substitute for free weights. It is entirely different exercises all together.

[darklight79]

I wouldn't use smith machine to acquire form of free weight exercises. Practice teh free weight variation to get better at it.

I'm not against using smith at all, but it is not a substitute for free weights. It is entirely different exercises all together.

x 2. Hell no. Bent over rows on a Smith is a no-no. Neither are deadlifts (there are idiots in my gym who do that).

[darrenash]

I wouldn't use the Smith for barbell rows. I prefer dumbbells over barbells let alone the Smith machine. I feel the free movement is much better for the move. That doesn't mean the Smith is bad for everyone. If you're starting out, go with the barbell. It's better in the long run. If they don't work, try dumbbells. If they don't work, try the Smith. You'll find one that works best for you.

[TyJax81]

It depends on your beginner status. If you can't lift at least 60% of your 1 RM then you need to be doing resistance bands to try to get the joints more mobile and build some strength. This will get you used to the movements. And then progress to machines. Not the machines that you add weight to.

[chazzy1864]

It depends on your beginner status. If you can't lift at least 60% of your 1 RM then you need to be doing resistance bands to try to get the joints more mobile and build some strength. This will get you used to the movements. And then progress to machines. Not the machines that you add weight to.

WTF @ bold?

How could you not lift 60% of a 1RM? How did they get the 1RM then?

[Hengman]

Smith machines for bent over rows? NO.

[ThickAsABrick]

WTF @ bold?

How could you not lift 60% of a 1RM? How did they get the 1RM then?

lulz

[DivaJana]

WTF @ bold?

How could you not lift 60% of a 1RM? How did they get the 1RM then?

I'll explain.

[ThickAsABrick]

I'll explain.
















[IMG]super spotter guy[IMG]

"All you, bro! Three more!"

[chazzy1864]

Well played.

[ironwill2008]

It depends on your beginner status. If you can't lift at least 60% of your 1 RM then you need to be doing resistance bands to try to get the joints more mobile and build some strength. This will get you used to the movements. And then progress to machines. Not the machines that you add weight to.

bevans, is that you?

[-Lucifer]

bevans, is that you?

LMFAO! Let's just say I'm glad I'm not drinking water/tea at the moment.

[darklight79]

WTF @ bold?

How could you not lift 60% of a 1RM? How did they get the 1RM then?

I lol'ed at this.

[Concat]

I know using the smith machine is frowned upon, but is it a good starting step for a beginner? It helps with the awkward form associated with bent over rows for someone whose new to lifting right?

You'd benefit a lot more from using lighter free weights and getting accustomed to the movement. I think beginners should stay away from the Smith machine, or at the very least, research which lifts are no-brainers on it, like shrugs or calf raises.

[jobronze]

Wut????????!!!!!!!
You dudes are kidding me right?

The SMITH is an amazing tool, the issue is folks that rely on it completely.

You can get one of the BEST lat contractions and pump from using the SMITH for BoR. Best back gains ever last few months adding this variation.

Completely takes the stress off the lower erectors, allows you to use more weight and helps create a nice mind muscle connection because you don't need to grip the bar as hard, thus you recruit more back and less arms..

Good enough for John Meadows, good enough for me.

[brianpancow]

x 2. Hell no. Bent over rows on a Smith is a no-no. Neither are deadlifts (there are idiots in my gym who do that).

hahaha wow I have never seen anybody try a deadlift on the smith machine. Thinking about the way the machine is, I just can't see why somebody would :P anyways I agree with the others. I love using the smith machine, but as chazzy stated for specific exercises that are not intended to replace free weights.

[sharpieblet]

hahaha wow I have never seen anybody try a deadlift on the smith machine. Thinking about the way the machine is, I just can't see why somebody would :P anyways I agree with the others. I love using the smith machine, but as chazzy stated for specific exercises that are not intended to replace free weights.

i see people do what they THINK is a deadlift on the smith...i see lots of dumb stuff go on in the gym really...