The Smith machine is a piece of exercise equipment which can be used for a variety of exercises. The machine consists of a barbell that is fixed to slide along vertical steel rails. The machine was originally inspired by a piece of equipment fitness legend Jack Lalane had created. Gym manager Rudy Smith noticed the design and asked Paul Martin to help him improve upon it. One of exercise the Smith Machine is commonly used to execute is the squat.
Safety
The heavy weights and difficult movements involved in a squat can lead to injury if you don't follow proper form. The structure of the Smith machine's frame allows you to execute the squat while being supported and guided by the rails. This decreases the risk of injury to the legs and back.
No Need for a Spotter
The Smith Machine typically includes stoppers that can be placed along the rails to restrict movement of the bar. Along the interior of the rails there are also small, thick rods which the barbell can be hooked to through a twist of the wrist. These features allow the user to set the weight down whenever necessary. This means you don't need a spotter.
Convenience
The Smith machine allows for quick set up and breakdown of weights and eliminates the difficulty associated with getting in the proper position for a squat. You can also quickly adapt the machine to use it for bench press, military press and dead lifts in conjunction with squats, without having to change machines.
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