Using the Smith Machine for Squats at Gym- ? on Form

[Lynn M.]

Hi there-

I've been using the Smith Machine at the gym for the last couple of months to do squats and lunges.. I like using it for these exercises, esp. bec. it gives me a chance to use heavier weights.

So, yesterday was the day to increase my weights a bit.. I was able to handle the increase in poundage just fine. However, last night I happened to notice that the bar had left bruises/red marks on the top of my shoulders where it sits when I'm using it.

I didn't notice any discomfort while I was doing it and I did try using the pad for part of the set, but I don't like how the pad feels, it kind of rolls and feels a bit unstable.

Do any of you fellow gym goers have an idea of what I'm doing wrong? Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance, Lynn M.

 

[atiman]

Hi Lynn, I use the machine at the gym. I'm not sure why you got the bruises, unless when you squat up or down that the bar is jumping/bouncing a bit on the shoulders? I do notice sometimes that the bar glides so easily up when I come back to the top.

I've used the machine with a pad and without one.
Although, I don't think I've ever used it without the pad beyond 75lbs. I do use 50-70lbs for warm-up sets with no problems. It takes a bit to get used to the pad, but you can stick a towel/washcloth on the pad.

Namita

 

[Vee]

Lyn,

I roll a small towel around the bar where the pad should be, or wear a towel bunched up across the back of my neck. I prefer the former. I barely notice the towel. I dont like squatting without the towel because the bar seems to dig into flesh on the upward movement.

Vrinda

 

[Lynn M.]

Hi there--

Thank you both for your replies...

Vrinda, I think it might be the bar digging into my skin..like what you experienced. I didn't even think about using a towel.. I bet that will solve the problem. I'm planning on giving it a try next week when its time to hit legs again.

Take care, Lynn M.