Smith machine

MGT Equipment Modification: The Smith Machine

We have gotten a few queries from MGT users whose gym does not have a Smith Machine, or they are unable to perform some of the movements because their machine does not reach the low height needed for certain exercises.

In our video, LeAura demonstrates 2 of our favorite Smith Machine exercises, the Donkey Kick and the Hamstring Pull-back, both featured in the MGT 3 (Advanced) book. She also demos an alternative to these movements if you need them, by doing a Hip Thrust with a plate. Other alternatives include using the Hamstring Curl Machine or the Hamstring Ball Pull-in using a large Swiss ball. Check it out and let us know if you have come across a movement that your gym does not support and we will offer alternatives. Besides, My Gym Trainer was designed to be a DIY Fitness Program, so we want to make it as easy as possible for you! Contact us! info@MyTrainerFitness.com

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kr2J17rAzfs]

My Gym Trainer Tutorial Series #1: The Smith Machine

Tags: Smith machine

Navigating a gym can be a daunting task for many, and that is precisely why Jill & LeAura created the My Gym Trainer series of books, to help everyone get a great workout and feel like a gym pro! In this new series, we are going to be offering up short tutorials for MGT users to learn about new machines or exercises at their gym.

In this tutorial, Jill shows you how to recognize and use the Smith Machine, which is a gym staple. It is different from the squat rack in that it has a bar that stays on its axis, instead of a free-standing bar. Bars can weight between 2 lbs up to 45 lbs depending on the brand so be sure to check the machine before adding additional weights.

The Smith Machine can be a great tool for increasing isolation of a muscle group, because there is less stabilization needed, when compared to a free squat or lunge. Some MGT movements that use the Smith Machine include: