What Is the Smith Machine?

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Don't be intimidated by your gym's Smith machine -- let a personal trainer show you how to use this useful muscle-boosting equipment.

By Betsey Stephens

Question: "What is the Smith machine, and should I be using it?"

Answer: Though it might look intimidating, the Smith machine is actually more like a barbell with training wheels, says John Jay Wooldridge, a personal trainer in New York City. A rack and cable system and locking mechanisms ensure that the weights won't fall -- even if you let go. This allows you to increase the challenge of lunges, squats, and bench presses without fear. Use the Smith machine if you're already proficient in these moves, but ask a trainer to give you a quick tutorial first, Wooldridge says.

Originally published in Fitness magazine, February 2006.

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