Are cable machine squats easier to do than squats on a Smith machine? I'm able to do about 220 pounds on the cables, but I'm doubtful whether I'll be able to replicate the results on a Smith machine. In terms of physics, I don't really see why they would be - both are assisted to some degree, but it seems to me that cables would actually provide less assistance since they are not rigid. Any ideas?
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What specific type of cable squat are you doing? I've seen some that don't require you to support any weight at your shoulders, which would be a big difference between the two. – user4644 Apr 6 '13 at 22:29
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I'm holding the two handles at about shoulder length, with hands positioned the same way as if I was holding a bar there. – John Roberts Apr 7 '13 at 0:01
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@JohnRoberts This question seems like an "experimental," since there is no data out there to say whether one is harder than the other. With that being said, I suggest you to give a Smith Machine Squat a try to find out yourself. I'm sorry, but I'm not able to find any decent literature out there to give you a firm answer. I've tried both, and it seems like the squat machine is a little harder to me. This is strictly a personal opinion. – QikMood Apr 7 '13 at 1:35
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1Altho this remark is a bit remotely related to the question being asked, Id say both types of squats are easier than barbell squats, as there is less stabilization work involved. – K.L. Apr 8 '13 at 14:07
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I don't see how to correctly answer the question as it is currently a bit open and I don't see the practical application. As you have not tried both exercises yet, this is only a guessing game and invites for speculation. I think a better approach would be: "I lift 220 pounds on cables, but can only lift 190 on the smith machine, why?" (or vice versa). – Baarn Jul 27 '13 at 13:35
This depends on the equipment that you are using. Smith machines friction levels vary greatly and so do cable machines (along with their weight read-outs). In general Smith squats should be harder. Also I would never substitute regular squats with these and I would never recommend anyone to do Smith machine squats unless they were advanced. It isn't a normal range of motion and can cause back, hip, knee problems.
Things to take into consideration:
- If the cable machine you use more than one pulley wheel, then your not lifting the full weight (see Wikipedia).
- Unless you manage to get the cable almost vertical, you are not displacing the weight as much on a cable machine and so not producing the same amount of work (see more wikipedia).
- Don't forget to count the weight of the bar on the Smith machine!
So you are probably right that the weight you can squat on a cable machine is likely to be more than on a Smith machine.
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Even if it has one pulley it is not the same as full weight (or it could be more based on friction levels). – DMoore Jul 27 '13 at 16:52
They are not comparable exercises. The cable machine squat incorporates your arms, while the smith machine will be pretty much all legs.
