What's the difference between a power rack and a smith machine?

**brandonb** · 07-09-2002, 02:44 PM

I have searched all over and looked for pictures and explanations but it's still not clear to me what the differences are between a smith machine and power rack? I am about to start squating and doing some other heavier lifting with no partner and it seems from the research I've done that a power rack is best. But I'm not exactly sure what it is and if my gym has it.

Thanks,
-Brandon

**irpker** · 07-09-2002, 02:46 PM

Power racks are used for barbell curling and upright rows, and smith machines are used for squatting

**HeavyLifta** · 07-09-2002, 02:47 PM

power rack you can do exercises on it such as squat and deadlift

smith machine is the machine is hard to explain, like the bar is always straight and can be set at any height

**brandonb** · 07-09-2002, 02:51 PM

Hmmm...

I think i know what a smith machine is. And I know they are in my gym. It has a bar on it that is on a permanant vertical path. When you use it, you can roll your wrists forward to make these hooks grab on so the bar stays in place and you can let go. Is that a smith machine?

So what is a power rack then?

Thanks,
-Brandon

**bLeDZePPeLiN69** · 07-09-2002, 03:38 PM

A smith machine is a machine that allows you to hook the weight onto a certain height and the bar follows a verticle path, like said before. A power rack is just a rack with a spot built into it, either using pins, arms, etc. Smith machines are basically ****, they make you follow a path down into the pocket when you are squatting, which isn't good for squatting without that guide. Also, from what I've heard it is bad on your back just due to bad body mechanics from following that straight up and down path.

**brandonb** · 07-09-2002, 04:07 PM

If I am going to be doing squats for the first time....what is the best way to do them?

Thanks,
-Brandon

**bLeDZePPeLiN69** · 07-09-2002, 04:16 PM

Power rack DEFINITELY.

That way you can find your squat groove/fingerprint instead of following a 100% verticle line.

**brandonb** · 07-09-2002, 04:20 PM

Will I need a spotter when I am on the power rack?

Thanks,
-Brandon

**bLeDZePPeLiN69** · 07-09-2002, 05:06 PM

You might want one, just because you are just learning your form. It'll feel really weird, but you'll get used to it. BTW, with the power rack, the point is if your legs give out, the arms catch the weight instead of your spinal column catching it for you :-D.

**tibbatts2000** · 07-09-2002, 05:58 PM

Here's some pics, hope they explain it for ya

**tibbatts2000** · 07-09-2002, 05:58 PM

Power Rack

**tibbatts2000** · 07-09-2002, 05:59 PM

Smith Machine

**tibbatts2000** · 07-09-2002, 05:59 PM

Sorry didn't work hope it does this time (SMith Machine)

**tibbatts2000** · 07-09-2002, 06:00 PM

Augh sorry abou tthsi teh pic wont go on for the smith machine, jsut go to BODYSOLID.COM and look up smith machine

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