The Smith machine’s support system reduces the stabilization effort required during weightlifting exercises. This assistance varies depending on factors like the machine’s design and the individual’s lifting form. For example, a lifter performing squats might experience a perceived reduction in resistance compared to free weight squats due to the guided bar path.
Reduced stabilization requirements can be advantageous for isolating specific muscle groups, promoting proper form, and potentially allowing for lifting heavier weights than with free weights. This assistance, however, can also diminish the activation of stabilizer muscles, potentially leading to strength imbalances if relied upon exclusively. Historically, the Smith machine was developed to provide a safer alternative to free weight training, particularly for solo lifters.