So, how does [easyazon_link identifier=”B004VA5E38″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Golds Gym Platinum Home Gym[/easyazon_link] stand up?

I quickly realized this home gym was made for people new to working out. Anyone with some lifting experience looking to use heavier weights would be very disappointed.

The construction simply isn’t sturdy enough to handle the weight.

So, you’d be better off spending extra on a home gym that can withstand more weight without feeling flimsy. I’d recommend the StrengthTech EXM2500S Home Gym for serious lifters.

[easyazon_link identifier=”B004VA5E38″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Golds Gym Platinum Home Gym[/easyazon_link] is built for newcomers who don’t need to use a lot of weight to build muscle. The range of equipment available lets you get effective full-body workouts. In the beginning, you won’t have to use heavier weights, so this gym will feel great and stable.

What Are Customers Saying About It?

The one review from Walmart rates this home gym at 5 stars. 

Pros

• Easily height adjustable bench for more exercise options
• Preacher curl pad to build biceps
• Lat pull-down to develop your back muscles
• Six-roll leg developer to workout your legs

Cons

• Assembly can take time – 6+ hours for some!
• The steel construction feels flimsy
• Can only handle lighter weights

Easily Height Adjustable Bench

To properly develop your chest muscle and improve strength, you need to be able to target it from a variety of angles. Fortunately, [easyazon_link identifier=”B004VA5E38″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Golds Gym Platinum Smith Machine bench[/easyazon_link] lets you do exactly this.

You can easily adjust the bench to decline, flat, and incline. This means you can emphasize your lower pecs with the decline, and your upper chest with the incline. Furthermore, the flat setting enables you to work the entire chest as a whole.

Having the ability to choose between different height angles puts you in the best position to develop an aesthetic and strong chest. The fact that it’s so easy to adjust means you can alter between each one within seconds at any time in your workout.

Varied Chest Exercises With Fly Machine

The smith machine bench press isn’t the only way you can build a bigger and stronger chest. This home gym also comes with a great chest fly machine as well.

The smith machine is suited for overloading the muscle and using a heavier weight for the muscle mass. However, Gold’s Gym has also paid attention to how users can get more detail in their chests.

One of the ways to achieve this is by doing isolation exercises, like a chest fly. The smith machine press involves the shoulders and triceps to help you move the weight. Whereas the chest fly lets you focus 100% on the chest.

You can get a good stretch and intense contraction. Many people love having different options to aid them in developing their muscles even further, and that’s what the chest fly feature offers.

Bicep Isolation Preacher Curl Pad

Biceps are a favorite muscle group that people love to train, right? Well, it also causes many people to use weights that are too heavy, and as a result, the form can end up being terrible.

It’s common to see a lot of momentum and swinging being used to get the weight up. The shoulders tend to come forward and involve the front deltoids to help out.

The preacher curl pad included with this [easyazon_link identifier=”B00332ARK0″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]home gym[/easyazon_link] makes sure you can avoid all those things. It isolates your bicep muscles and ensures nothing else is being used to help. When your biceps are doing all the work, they’re going to grow a lot better.

Multiple Attachments With Pulley System

The pulley system can be used in either high or low settings. This leaves you with more options to get the most out of your workouts.

Both the pulleys enable you to effortlessly attach different bars and ropes.

The low pulley can be used for doing exercises like cable bicep curls and bent over rows. Whereas the high pulley lets you attach lat pull-down bars to workout your back. You could also use ropes to train your triceps too.

There are so many possibilities with each of the pulleys that give you a lot to experiment with. The huge number of exercises you could do mean you can always keep your workouts fresh and inventive.

Build Legs With Six-Roll Leg Developer

I appreciated how [easyazon_link identifier=”B00IGIRYPW” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Golds Gym Home Gym[/easyazon_link] gives you the option to workout your legs. Many other home gyms are completely focused on the upper body. However, leaving the legs without any kind of stimulation can cause a lot of imbalances.

The six-roll leg developer means you can develop your hamstrings and quads. However, it also involves the hip flexors and glutes.

I loved how the six-roll leg developer gives you the chance to build more than just your quads. The quadriceps are seen as the biggest and most dominant leg muscles, but there are other parts that should be focused on too.

Since you can strengthen your glutes, hips flexors, and hamstrings, I can’t help but feel Golds Gym has gone above and beyond to make sure new users can evenly build muscle across their entire body.

Tough To Assemble

One aspect about home gyms that people are concerned with is how easy they are to assemble.

Unfortunately, customers have been struggling to put their Gold Gym Platinum Home Gyms together. The instructions that come with the home gym aren’t the problem.

It comes down to the sheer amount of parts that need to be assembled perfectly. There are tons of little bolts and screws that need to be fitted in a specific order. So, if you mess up with one section, it could mean taking it apart and starting again.

Many users find this to be a major headache and have spent many hours putting all the parts together. Some have spent 6-10 hours!

Clearly, this can be off-putting as the whole point of home gyms is to make your life easier. Having said that, this largely comes down to the individual and their abilities to assemble large pieces of equipment like this one.

Construction Quality

Once the trouble of putting the home gym together was completed, numerous users noticed an issue immediately.

As soon as they went to use the equipment with weights, they felt it was a little unstable. This is the last thing you want while working out as it could potentially lead to an injury, which is more common in the gym than many belief.

The main issue with [easyazon_link identifier=”B00IGIRYPW” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Golds Gym Platinum Home Gym[/easyazon_link] is the construction. Some major parts of it are made using plastic. Understandably, people don’t come to expect this from the Golds Gym brand.

The disappointing construction quality has left many wondering (myself included) why they’ve charged such a high price. While the huge variety of exercises is great, the entire structure doesn’t feel as heavy-duty as it should.

Weight Features

What many customers don’t realize, before purchasing this home gym, is that it doesn’t come with any weights. So, if you were looking forward to using the smith machine, you better be prepared to spend more on the weights! This is also the case for many of the attachment features.

However, even when you do get the weights on, the equipment feels like it’s only able to handle lighter weights. As soon as you begin to add heavier weight, this home gym begins to deteriorate in terms of its stability.

The smith machine doesn’t move up and down as smoothly and can even become off-centered in some cases. This comes back to the point that the Golds Gym Platinum home gym isn’t made for more serious lifters.

The lower weight features will work well if you’re just starting out. But you will begin to feel held back once you start progressing onto heavier weights.

Bottom Line – Golds Gym Platinum Smith Machine Review

All in all, this home gym doesn’t feel worthy of having the Golds Gym brand name. If you’re more of a serious lifter, I’d advise you to avoid this home gym and find one that’s constructed out of higher-quality steel. The StrengthTech EXM2500S Home Gym is a better choice for you.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B00332ARK0″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51sadCHiqaL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

You’ll have fewer restrictions on how much weight you can use, and the entire set-up will feel a lot more stable.

The impressive range of exercises on offer make this a more suitable option for people who are just beginning their weight lifting journey. You’re able to workout your whole body, which surprisingly includes the legs too!

You’ll save money on gym memberships and you can workout more conveniently in your own home. Not having enough time to make it to the gym is no longer an excuse!

Having said that, after some consistent use, you’re likely to outgrow this home gym within a year or two. So, if you’re after a one-off purchase that’s going to last you for years to come, [easyazon_link identifier=”B004VA5E38″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Golds Gym Platinum Smith Machine home gym[/easyazon_link] may not be the best choice.

I hope this review has given you all the details you need to decide whether this home gym is right for you. Good luck!

On the surface, they seem to provide similar muscle-building benefits. However, there’s a lot more going on than you may currently realize.

After years of working out and building muscle, I’ve gotten to know the benefits and drawbacks of smith machines and free weights pretty well. You may be wondering which one’s best, right?

My years of experience and the research concludes that free weights are generally better than smith machines. 

If you’re interested to learn more about why and the benefits/drawbacks that each possesses, you’re in the right place.

We’re about to take a detailed look into smith machines and free weights to provide you with all the information you need to make the best decision for yourself.

Smith Machines Vs Free Weights

What is a Smith Machine?

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Smith machines seemed to have attained a bad reputation among many gym-goers. The biggest criticism I see is people saying how unnatural the movements feel. Is there any truth to these common complaints?

Well, partly.

A smith machine is a weight apparatus that people use to train their muscles. It works similarly to a regular barbell, with a straight bar for you to put weighted plates on either end. But there are some key differences.

The barbell is built into a fixed range of motion with rails on either end. It can only move in a completely straight up and down motion. You’ll find there are pins that stick out and hook connected on the top of the bar.

This lets you easily re-rack the weight, and that’s one of the most profound benefits of a smith machine.

Jack LaLanne invented the smith machine in the 1950s. He was a successful bodybuilder and pioneer in fitness equipment at the time. Jack wanted to find a way to safely squat heavyweight without needing a spotter to help out in case he couldn’t get the reps.

His goal wasn’t to replace free weights with machines, instead, he was after a machine that would benefit his overall workouts.

Benefits of a Smith Machine

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If you fail halfway through a heavy barbell squat with no spotter, it can be a scary situation. (Trust me, it’s happened more times than I’d like to admit!). Even if you set up safety racks, the risk of injury is still high.

With a smith machine, however, you can lift weights more safely, without a spotter. If you fail on a rep, you can simply twist the bar so that it hooks onto one of the many pins that are found up and down the rails.

The main exercises people use the smith machine for are squats and shoulder/bench press. You can also do lunges and bent-over rows too.

Since the bar is in a completely straight path, it means you don’t have to focus on stabilizing the weight. When you use free weights, it takes more energy to keep them stable.

This is a huge reason as to why I love incorporating some smith machine exercises into my workouts.

It lets you zero in and put all your focus and energy into activating and squeezing the muscle. Those of you interested in a high-quality and affordable smith machine will love what the Marcy MP3100 Smith Machine has to offer.

Drawbacks of a Smith Machine

Even though I like to use smith machines as part of my workouts, there are some major reasons why they remain as just a part.

As I mentioned above, one of the benefits of a smith machine is that you can lift weights in a straight bar path. It minimizes the need to recruit stabilizer muscles to let you get a good mind-to-muscle connection.

However, this can also work against you too.

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Using a smith machine too much could cause your stabilizer muscles to become weak. While you may be able to lift a lot of weight on the machine, you will still be weak when using free weights. In fact, your stabilizing muscles would be more prone to injury.

They aren’t used to balancing free weights.

Furthermore, the bar path is completely straight, meaning that you have to fit your body into the machine. As a result, it can feel very unnatural for many people.

This unnatural motion can lead to a lot of stress being put onto the joints and back. If you’re in it for the long-run, you’ll want to avoid this kind of stress as much as possible!

Who’s a Smith Machine Best For?

A smith machine can be fantastic for anyone looking to build muscle. However, it is vital that you don’t rely on it.

As I said, I enjoy incorporating it into my workouts because it feels good for me. If you try a smith machine and it feels very awkward, don’t carry on. It’s as simple as that. It will likely cause you knee, back, and joint problems down the line.

Having said that, if it feels good, it can be a fantastic addition to your workouts. It lets you lift heavier loads safely without needing a spot.

I do have one strong recommendation:

Beginners should steer clear of smith machines- why?

You need to put your energy into the free weights to built up your stabilizer muscles. They are crucial in helping you lift heavier weights and build more muscle.

We’re about to take a look at free weights and what their benefits are in the next section.

What Are Free Weights?

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Free weights can be categorized under any kind of weight that you can move without any restrictions on the range of motion.

Barbells and dumbbells are the two most common types of free weights. With barbells, you simply put weighted plates onto each side and use clips/clamps to keep them secure. You can use them for tons of exercises, including squats, bench press, bent-over rows, and shoulder press, just to name a few.

Dumbbells are weights that you can hold in both hands and for the most part, come in set weights. You can, however, pick up adjustable dumbbells where you can add and take plates off like a barbell.

Medicine balls and kettlebells are the other types of free weights available.

Benefits of Free Weights

A study in 2019 concluded that free weights were over 40% more effective at activating muscles in a squat compared to a smith machine.

Other studies have reported how free weights are better at improving your strength too.

A more obvious benefit to free weights is that they let you build up your balance abilities. As a result, people using free weights over smith machines improved their stability by a considerable amount.

So, the research clearly shows us that free weights are more beneficial than fixed-machine movements.

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Lifting dumbbells and barbells require a lot more energy expenditure too. Not only are you having to move the weight, but you also control every inch of the motion. Therefore, you’re likely to get more of a sweat and burn more calories.

The natural range of motion is why free weights will always be king. You can incorporate smith machine work, but it should only take up a smaller chunk of the workout.

Drawbacks of Free Weights

If your form isn’t tight, and the motion isn’t controlled, free weights could increase your chances of injury.

Since these weights can be moved in a free range of motion, some people neglect the amount of control needed to use them properly. People often swing free weights with momentum which can cause injuries.

Furthermore, moving weights in this manner takes stress off the targeted muscles. You could essentially be at a higher risk of injury and be building less muscle.

Making sure the entire motion is controlled is paramount for safety and better results.

Who Are Free Weights Best For?

I would recommend free weights for people of all experience levels.

Complete newbies, intermediates, and veteran lifters should all be using free weights. This is especially the case if you’re completely new to building muscle and working out.

The free weights will take a little longer to get used to, but the benefits will be worth it. They force you to work harder which increases your strength and muscle.

If you’re looking for an affordable and effective way to use dumbbells from home, try out this range from Fitness Gear.

Should You Use A Smith Machine or Free Weights?

From personal experience, and what studies tell us, there’s no real competition between free weights and smith machines.

Free weights are proven to have more benefits. They require more effort, recruit stabilizers, and help you build more muscle.

However, the intention of smith machines was never to overtake free weights. It was invented to lift heavier weights safer without a spotter.

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With all points considered, here are my final recommendations:

Smith machines should only be used as part of your muscle-building routine. Don’t let it replace your training with free weights. Having this balance aids you in building more muscle and avoiding injuries.

Those wanting to lift heavier weights but don’t have a spotter to keep them safe would love the Marcy MP3100 Smith Machine.

People just starting out will not be advanced enough to be lifting those kinds of weights. In which case, focusing on free weights, like these Fitness Gear Dumbbells is a better option.

Final Thoughts – Smith Machines Vs Free Weights

Smith machines are awesome if you’re a more experienced lifter who wants to move heavier weights safely, without a spotter.

Free weights are excellent for all experience levels and are superior for building a solid foundation of muscle and strength.

In the end, the choice comes down to your goals and how experienced you are with lifting weights. Use my recommendations to help form your own decision if you were feeling a little stuck.

Hopefully, all the information I’ve provided for you here helps you out!

If so, smith machines can be fantastic pieces of equipment. They let you push yourself to failure and not have to worry about getting stuck underneath the bar. The hook and pin systems are super easy to use.

I highly recommend the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00TZ9BA3I” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Inspire Fitness FT2 smith machine[/easyazon_link]. It’s one of the best smith machines for more experienced lifters as it comes with an incredible amount of additional workout attachments. The weight capacity is also impressive.

We’ll also take a look at a more affordable smith machine, as well as a mid-range one. That way, you’ll have a better idea of what these smith machines have to offer across the various price ranges.

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Top Pick – Inspire Fitness Ft2 Smith Station

This is a smith machine that serious lifters will love. Often times, home smith machines have a lower cap on their maximum weight. I found this one provides you with more than most people will ever need.

Main Features

Weight Stack

The way they’ve designed the weight stack means that you’re able to workout each side of your body more precisely.

A lot of smith machines can feel uneven and it results in an unbalanced physique. If one side is being worked more than the other, it will show after a period of time.

This isn’t a problem you need to worry about with the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00TZ9BA3I” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Inspire Fitness Ft2 smith machine[/easyazon_link]. Furthermore, the weight stacks have a maximum capacity of 150 lbs on each side. As a result, this smith machine is a fantastic choice for serious lifters.

If 150 lbs aren’t enough, you can always make an upgrade to have a limit of 200 lbs. Moreover, there’s a force multiplier feature that doubles the amount of weight you’re lifting. With an upgrade and force multiplier in use, you can have a total of 800 lbs!

Smith Bar

The smith bar that’s integrated into this fitness machine is unique. It doesn’t require you to load each side with plates.

Instead, it’s already hooked up to the weight stack. I liked this feature as it means there’s less hassle involved with changing the weights.

It comes with an excellent lockout feature too. This lets you keep it out of the way when you’re not using it. Furthermore, there are safety latches located that allow you to easily hook the bar at any stage of the movement.

This is a must-have feature of smith machines as it allows you to safely push yourself to the max. If you can’t get the rep with a barbell, you need a spotter to help. But with this smith machine, you can simply use the latches to hold the bar.

Additional Equipment

Since this smith machine is priced quite highly, you would expect it to come with a variety of workout features. And it does.

There are a preacher curl and leg extension.

When you use the preacher curl attachment, you’re able to completely isolate your biceps. In particular, preachers curls are a fantastic exercise for building up the peak of the biceps.

In addition to the preacher curl, you also get to use a let extension. This connects to the weight stacks and allows you to isolate your quadriceps. Leg extensions are fantastic for isolation work to increase the size and definition of the quads.

Personally, I also like to use the leg extension as a warm-up at the start of my workout. It helps to get the blood flowing around the knees to prevent injuries.

A pull-up is also included. I appreciate when smith machines include this as it’s such a simple and effective exercise to build width in your lats.

Pulley System

We liked how the dual pulley system equipped with this smith machine has many adjustable features.

You’re able to adjust it to your exact preferences as there are 32 total positions to set the pulleys at. Therefore, you can use it for a wide variety of exercises. Using one side of the pulley is awesome for doing tricep and bicep work.

Whereas using the two of them together allows you to perform chest flyes. If you have the bench, you could do these on a flat or incline. Alternatively, doing them standing upright is fantastic for isolating the chest too.

Pros

• Tons of accessories included (preacher curl, leg extension, pull-up bar, and various cable attachments)
• Individual weight stack for balanced weight lifting
• Smith bar with hooks for safety
• Pulley system for more exercise variety
• Adjustable bench available for purchase too

Cons

• At 7 feet in height, it may be too tall for some homes
• The exercise book included is very basic

Best Mid-Range Pick – Icon Health & Fitness Weider PRO 8500 Smith Machine

For a smith machine that’s under $1,000, I was surprised to find how durable it is. Moreover, it comes with a wide range of fantastic features that enhance working out.

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Main Features

Smith Bar 

This [easyazon_link identifier=”B019FYD5GC” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Weider PRO 8500 smith machine[/easyazon_link] comes with a built-in smith bar. This lets you perform some of the main compound exercises, such as squats, bench press, and shoulder press.

I liked how it comes with various safety pins that are located up and down the rails. This allows you to simply rack the bar if you think you can’t get the rep.

Customers have been loving how smoothly the smith bar glides up and down while in motion.

Bench & Attachments

An adjustable bench is included with this smith machine as a standard order.

You’re able to adjust the bench to various inclines which provides you with more workout options. Setting it flat is great for flat bench press, whereas the incline is an excellent option for hitting the upper chest.

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It can also be set to a more upright position for shoulder presses.

In addition to the bench, you also get numerous other attachments. This includes a leg extension and preacher curls. The leg extension lets you focus on your quadriceps and the preacher curl helps you isolate your biceps.

Furthermore, there are different attachments for the pulley system too.

Pulleys

The pulley system that comes equipped to this smith machine is fantastic. You can use the various cable attachments to perform a versatile range of exercises. These include chest flyes, tricep pushdowns, lat pulldowns, rows, and face pulls.

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Chest Fly

While you can use the cable mechanism to do chest flyes, there is also a designated chest fly available too.

It’s a pec dec that works effectively to help you target your chest. I found the pec dec puts minimal stress on your shoulders, which helps to prevent injury.

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Pros

• Smooth smith bar with safety pins
• Adjustable bench included in the standard package
• Various cable attachments provided
• Pulley system for a wide range of exercises
• Chest fly machine to isolate your pecs

Cons

• The cable pulley system could be smoother
• Some find the positioning of the pec dec is awkward

Best Affordable Pick – Powerline PSM144X Smith Machine

It’s a very basic smith machine that provides you with the bare essentials. Having said that, what it does provide is of a very high standard.

Main Features

Adjustable Positions

I liked how there are a variety of positions available with this smith machine. You’re able to use 14 in total.

What’s the benefit of this feature?

Having the ability to choose between so many adjustment settings increases the number of exercises you can do. Furthermore, you’re able to set the starting point of the exercise to your preference.

Durability

For such an affordable smith machine, I was surprised to find how durable it is.

They have used heavy-duty 12-gauge steel to construct the frame. Therefore, you can expect it to last you a while.

This also means that you can workout safely and not have the worry about how stable to smith machine is.

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Smith Bar

The smith bar has a diameter of 1”. Powerline designed it this way to mimic the feeling that you get while lifting with Olympic equipment.

There are two carriages on either side of the bar that has been made with super-glide nylon bushings. As a result, you’re able to workout with complete smoothness.

Adding plates to either side of this smith bar gives it the feeling of a free weight barbell. However, this smith bar is safer due to the two hooks that are attached to it.

These allow you to twist the bar and latch onto the pins that are located up and down the side rails. So, if you can’t get that last rep, you don’t need to panic as the pins have you covered.

Attachment Options

While the standard order comes with the smith bar and frame, there are options to add additional equipment.

You could add an adjustable bench, pec dec, and pulley system. This gives you room to expand the smith machine’s workout features as time goes on. It’s a feature that people on tighter budgets will appreciate the most.

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Pros

• Smooth smith bar movement
• Very strong & durable materials
• Many adjustable pins available
• You have the option to add attachments

Cons

• Some have difficulty with assembly
• Max weight capacity (around 300 lbs) isn’t enough for some

Final Thoughts

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00TZ9BA3I” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Inspire Fitness FT2[/easyazon_link] provides an incredible amount of high-quality workout features. I especially liked how you can use up to 800 lbs in total.

Having said that, it is one of the top-range smith machines – so it’s pricey!

People working with a more moderate budget will actually be in for a treat with the [easyazon_link identifier=”B019FYD5GC” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Weider PRO 8500[/easyazon_link]. There are tons of workout features that are awesome, especially when you consider the price.

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B000VLNUQE” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Powerline smith machine[/easyazon_link] is incredibly affordable. It offers the basics of a smith bar and solid frame – which is enough for some.

Be sure to consider all of the features, pros, and cons of all three smith machines in this review. It’s also a good idea to think about your experience level. The longer you’ve been lifting, the more workout accessories and the weight you’ll need.

The less experienced you are, the more basic your workouts can be.

You may also be interested to see what these Marcy and Golds Gym smith machines have to offer too.

There are so many companies creating fitness equipment nowadays that keeping track of the best ones can be tough. However, I’ve compiled a list of the top seven brands in the world.

Our favorite brands for each type of equipment are:

Knowing what the best brands are can be helpful in choosing your fitness equipment. Regardless of whether it’s for weights or cardio machines.

By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of what sets the best brands apart from the rest. As a result, you’ll be able to identify the kinds of qualities to look out for when purchasing any fitness equipment.

Hammer Strength

Hammer Strength is a renowned fitness brand that is known for creating extremely high-quality weight machines.

To be more specific, this brand focuses heavily on making plate-loaded weight machines. That’s one of the reasons why their equipment is appreciated by weightlifters around the world. It’s all tailored towards building muscle and strength.

They are unique to other fitness brands that have been putting out a wide range of fitness equipment. Instead, Hammer Strength has zeroed in on a niche and excelled.

Their equipment is durable and incredibly heavy-duty.

Users like how the range of motion with Hammer Strength equipment feels more natural than many other machines. As a result, you’re able to stimulate your muscles for better growth.

Their plate-loaded weight machine range includes an impressive 40 options. Therefore, they can accommodate extremely well to people of all fitness goals.

Life Fitness

Life Fitness began back in 1997. Since then, they have established themselves as being a fitness brand that people all over the world are familiar with.

The kinds of equipment they manufacture is vast. It includes anything from weighted cable machines and racks, to all kinds of cardio machines.

Customers are particularly impressed with the Ultimate Life Fitness T3 Treadmill. It’s considered to be an entry-level treadmill that’s equipped with a lot of great features.

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For one, the deck is cushioned, meaning less impact on your joints. (Excellent for elderly people or those with injuries).

The dual console makes tracking your progress a breeze. You can easily see your workout stats to ensure that you know which areas need improvement.

It’s also energy-efficient and comes with a fantastic warranty.

To learn more about this treadmill, check out our Ultimate Life Fitness T3 Treadmill review.

Cybex

Similarly, to Life Fitness, Cybex has established itself as one of the best gym equipment brands in the world.

They have an enormous range of different fitness products available. Regardless of whether you’re looking to lift weights and get stronger or lose weight and get fitter – they have it all.

Weight resisted machines, frames, racks, and cardio equipment are all readily available.

While they do create some great weighted equipment, they are mostly recognized for the cardio products.

For example, their [easyazon_link identifier=”B002VL1IA2″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Arc Trainer[/easyazon_link] range is a favorite among customers. Not to mention, they also manufacture treadmills, rowing machines, and bikes.

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One of the biggest draws to Cybex’s Arc Trainer is that anyone can use it. This is because it provides you with a low impact form of exercise which is easy going on the joints.

There are also many workout options available (13 in total!). These are awesome at helping you reach your goals of improving your cardiovascular health, losing weight, and improving your speed.

Learn more details about the Arc Trainer in our review here.

Their [easyazon_link identifier=”B0053Y0TAE” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]750T Treadmill[/easyazon_link] is another big hit among users. It’s a piece of cardio equipment that’s easy to use and comes with a cushioned deck. This makes it accessible to more people.

With a large display and control buttons, you’re able to set your workout programs and track your progress with ease.

There are nine pre-programmed programs that help you reach your fitness goals, no matter what they are.

Check out all the details surrounding the Cybex 750T Treadmill here.

Precor

Precor was founded by David Cruz in 1980 in Woodinville. He was an industrial engineer who has ended up being the creator behind one of the best gym equipment brands in the world.

One of the main factors that have made Precor one of the best in the business is engineering. This is no surprise considering the founder was an industrial engineer!

Their equipment ranges from stretching trainers, weight machines, and spin bikes.

They’ve approached their weighted items a little differently to most commercial brands. They incorporated weighted plates. Using plate-loaded machines is something that many gym users prefer over stacks.

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B07DM8N1QP” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Precor Shift[/easyazon_link] is a spin bike that has become a favorite among customers due to its solid construction, comfort, and adjustable features.

Users like how they’re able to work out intensely without worrying about the bike tipping over.

A unique A factor design means that the placement of the pedals feels very comfortable. This is a benefit that you’ll appreciate more during longer workouts.

Being able to adjust the seat post height and distance between you and handles is a simple yet effective feature. Finding the perfect position is crucial for working out comfortably and consistently.

I know I dread workouts on a bike that doesn’t feel comfortable!

Learn more about the range of spin bikes that Precor has to offer in our review (click here).

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Star Trac

Star Trac is a reputable fitness equipment brand that has been in the industry for more than two decades.

They are mostly known for manufacturing treadmills and exercise bikes.

Star Trac is now a well-known brand with their main products being treadmills and exercise bikes.

Their [easyazon_link identifier=”B07G5LMS44″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]E-TRxe Treadmill[/easyazon_link] is built with a strong aluminium construction for durability. It’s also powered by 5HP that runs off an electrical power outlet which provides you with plenty of power to workout with.

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Users have been impressed with the large 15” HD display monitor too. Its touchscreen enables you to clearly keep track of your workout progress.

The Star Trac recumbent bike range is a great option that suits many people. I was impressed by its maximum weight capacity of over 350 lbs!

Moreover, if you’re a little taller or shorter, you can easily adjust the bike to feel comfortable. With good-sized monitors, you’re also given the chance to see how well you are progressing with each workout.

No to mention, the wide range of workout programs available provides you with plenty of options. You can be sure to find one that suits your needs best.

Take a look at our review to discover more about what the Star Trac recumbent bike range has to offer

StairMaster

StairMaster has been in the fitness industry since 1983. Since then, they’ve progressed rapidly to where they are today.

The StairMaster 5000 was their first product and it took the industry by surprise. It enabled users to workout with more intensity while doing steady state cardio than any other piece of equipment that was available.

There have been multiple versions of the StairMaster over the years as they’ve adapted and improved on different areas.

Their StairMaster has you on a continual loop of walking up steps. You can alter the pace to make it more intense or keep it moderate. Either way, it’s an awesome piece of equipment that I love using for cardio.

This brand is known for creating equipment that provides you with a real challenge. The more challenging your workouts are, the better the results will be. That’s one of the big reasons why so many people gravitate towards StairMaster.

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B000NZKXNG” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]StairMaster 7000 PT[/easyazon_link] model is a popular choice. It includes a total of six workout programs and 20 levels of resistance.

This provides you with plenty of workout options, regardless of your experience with fitness.

Their revolving staircase uses a patented design with steps that are 8” in height. These make it feel as though you’re walking up a real set of stairs.

Users also appreciate how the display is LCD and backlit, making it easy to read.

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NordicTrack

NordicTrack has been around for over 30 years. Initially, they were known for their ski machines, however, they’ve established an entirely new reputation for themselves today.

They manufacture a range of fitness equipment which home users, in particular, have been appreciating.

This brand is known for creating indoor bikes, treadmills, and ellipticals. So, if you’re looking for ways to do cardio, NordicTrack is a good source.

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For example, the [easyazon_link identifier=”B018R9THUE” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]NordicTrack C990[/easyazon_link] offers you many fantastic workout features at a decent price.

It included a total of 32 apps that you can use via the large touch screen display.

Users have been liking the FlexSelect cushioning as it allows you to exercise without causing damage to your knees.

Moreover, you’re able to save on space with the folding design feature.

Read our review on the NordicTrack C990 here to learn all the details.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know more about the best gym equipment brands in the world, you’ll be able to identify them when shopping around.

Of course, there are other brands that produce high-quality equipment too. So, it’s always worth doing some digging around to find the piece of equipment that suits your needs best.

However, the brands discussed above have established themselves with the highest quality products and the most consistent over the years.

In other words, they are extremely reliable.

If you’re ever feeling stuck on which brands to choose from, use this content above as a way of guiding you to the best equipment available on the market.

With the decision of home gym vs commercial gym having many factors to it, some people will prefer the use of home gym equipment more than others. Today we’re going to take a look at what’s available for those preferring a home gym, as we break down the best home gym equipment. We will be giving our recommendations for specific categories and some recommendations between multiple choices, alongside an opinion on some big selling, specific products.

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Best Home Gym Equipment

Smith Machines vs Free Weights

Often newcomers to the world of exercise are unsure on the pro’s and con’s of different pieces of equipment. Because of this variety of drawbacks and benefits on either side, the recommendation is affected by your individual needs and preferences. With that said, generally we would recommend free weights over smith machines.

The reason we recommend free weights is because they recruit more muscles to stabilize the weight. Free weights will also strengthen your ligaments and tendons as they are put under more pressure to keep everything in the correct position. Free weights are simple and cheap to get started with too. For example, a set of [easyazon_link identifier=”B019EFG8M0″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Titan dumbbells[/easyazon_link] could be a cheap and efficient way to get started with free-weights.

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With that said, there are times when a smith machine could be better for you. This would be to correct a weakness or as a part of physiotherapy. They could also help you to push through a plateau and continue your progression. In these cases something like the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00E1P15KO” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Inspire Fitness FT2 smith machine[/easyazon_link] would be ideal.

Click here for our complete breakdown of smith machines vs free weights.

Titan Pull-Up Bar – Should You Buy One?

Pull-ups are one of the toughest bodyweight exercises to pull off, with a lot of people struggling to do even one. It’s a great display of overall fitness and strength to weight ratio to pull these off. They’re also a great exercise to continue your development, regardless of current fitness levels. [easyazon_link identifier=”B00HF8U37U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]The Titan pull-up bar[/easyazon_link] has been a popular choice when it comes to home pull-up bars since its release.

Overall we would recommend the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00HF8U37U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Titan Pull-Up Bar [/easyazon_link] as a great addition to any home gym. It adds a versatile piece of equipment that can really boost your development. Likewise, it’s reliable and hard-wearing, plus it’s adjustable even though the bar is made to be placed on permanent brackets.

Click here for our full Titan Pull-Up Bar review.

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Best Titan Dumbbells

A respected brand when it comes to dumbbells and home gym equipment in general, Titan Fitness are known for their reliability and versatility. You can buy the [easyazon_link identifier=”B079S3P278″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]dumbbell bars[/easyazon_link] and add whatever [easyazon_link identifier=”B01IRVKC0Q” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]weight plates[/easyazon_link] you desire, or you can buy the fully [easyazon_link identifier=”B019EFG8M0″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]adjustable Titan dumbbell.[/easyazon_link]

There are also some extremely nice [easyazon_link identifier=”B0106UO20W” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]hexagonal rubber coated dumbbells,[/easyazon_link] very sturdy and nice to use though these aren’t recommended for home users because it’s expensive to stock an entire gym with these – and the point of training is usually to get stronger, so you’re going to end up buying quite a few sets. Likewise there is a lightweight [easyazon_link identifier=”B07BYVSG3Z” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]neoprene set available.[/easyazon_link]

Click here for our complete breakdown of the best Titan fitness dumbbells.

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Best Fitness Gear Dumbbells

A popular alternative to Titan Fitness for dumbbells are Fitness Gear. If you’re the type of home gym user who loves free weights, and in particular dumbbells, then you’re certain to find something to your liking between Titan and Fitness Gear.

In the case of Fitness gear you can’t buy adjustable dumbbells. You have three options to choose from, with only the first two providing heavier weights. Fitness Gear provide really high quality preset, cast dumbbells. These are available as  [easyazon_link identifier=”B079D896PW” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]rubber coated[/easyazon_link] or [easyazon_link identifier=”B078R4VH8N” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]full cast iron[/easyazon_link] versions, with the [easyazon_link identifier=”B078R2TB8P” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]full cast iron dumbbell[/easyazon_link] being highly noted for reliability. The rubber coated dumbbells are better for people who have concerns about exposed iron weights causing damage.

There are also [easyazon_link identifier=”B0799D71LH” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]neoprene dumbbells[/easyazon_link] available from this brand, though these are at lighter weights only.

Click here for our complete analysis of Fitness Gear Dumbbells.

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Best Exercise Equipment for a Bad Back

Back pain is becoming a major issue due to modern lifestyle habits, such as sitting for extended time periods. We have taken a close look at multiple pieces of equipment, and given our top recommendations by type of equipment. There are advantages and disadvantages to each type, with our overall recommendation going to the top eliptical trainer – the[easyazon_link identifier=”B01KAGX6XQ” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Schwinn 430.[/easyazon_link]

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00D4LEEY0″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Schwinn 430 Eliptical Trainer[/easyazon_link] is a sturdy, dependable piece of equipment which gives a high level of comfort for less mobile users. That means you can use it regularly without aggravating an injury, and even as a part of the recovery process. It has multiple resistance levels to work through allowing plenty of development and gives a decent all-over workout, with a focus on that all-important cardiovascular fitness.

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Best Body Solid Home Gym Equipment

Body Solid have had a great year so far with their Home Gyms. They provide a whole range of choices, with differing levels of equipment and capabilities offered. Our overall top pick went to the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00332ARK0″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]StrengthTech EXM2500S home gym.[/easyazon_link]

Having been around for years you know that you can always rely on Body Solid to provide durable equipment, and the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00332ARK0″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]StrengthTech EXM2500S[/easyazon_link] is exactly that. With a reasonable cost and a wide variety of stations/functions, this home gym gives a great return for a low investment. Coupling it with a good power rack or smith machine and some free weights would give you absolutely loads of versatility and function.

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Click here to check out our full breakdown of Body Solid Home Gyms.

Best Body Solid Power Weight Rack

Again a big seller throughout the year, the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00HAVB0DI” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Body Solid power rack[/easyazon_link] is all about letting you do big lifts, safely, and in the comfort of your own home. With the rack being likely to last for years and capable of handling pretty much anything you throw at it, we gave it a thumbs up for home gym users everywhere.

It incorporates great safety features with a high weight limit, and is incredibly easy to use. As a bonus this weight rack doesn’t really need much maintenance. The power rack offers a lot of similar advantages to the smith machine whilst having a little more flexibility in range of movement. This can be a pro or a con depending on your needs, though on the whole we’d recommend the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01ETJVCO0″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Body Solid power rack[/easyazon_link] for most users.

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Click here to read our complete Body Solid Power Weight Rack review.

Best Smith Machine for Home Gyms

You might recall that we previously recommended free weights over smith machines for most uses. That doesn’t mean a smith machine doesn’t have its’ own advantages. They are a great way to push forward at heavier weights while staying safe. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00E1P15KO” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Inspire Fitness FT2 smith machine[/easyazon_link] was our standout in this article where we break down the benefits and drawbacks of all the top smith machines on the market right now.

Our top picks are analyzed and broken down into top choices by budget, so there’s an option for everyone. Remember that a smith machine alone could neglect smaller muscle groups so while they do have advantages, use them as part of a balanced workout routine.

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Click here for our full breakdown of the best smith machines for your home.

Marcy SM 4008 Smith Machine

A popular brand for home gym equipment is Marcy. Generally they produce solid products but with the [easyazon_link identifier=”B0041NM0ZU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Marcy SM 4008 smith machine[/easyazon_link] they have missed the mark. It is an ambitious unit which comes with a lot of add-ons to boost what you can do. There’s actually so many add-ons that it’s almost a complete home gym of its own. It has good safety mechanisms and a solid frame which holds up well.

Our recommendation was to avoid this unit due to there being a number of smaller plastic parts which break easily and a weak pulley system. Likewise this one is known to be complex and time-consuming to put together. It’s a sizeable time and cash investment for a piece of equipment that could break in months. Our alternative to this smith machine? The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00332ARK0″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]StrengthTech EXM2500S Home Gym[/easyazon_link], plenty of safety and options with much more reliability.

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Click here to read our full review of the Marcy SM 4008 Smith machine.

Golds Gym Platinum Smith Machine

Another popular choice so far this year is the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01MQF4UWT” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Golds Gym Platinum Smith Machine[/easyazon_link]. This smith machine is selling based on the popular and well-known brand of Golds Gym. The problem is that the product doesn’t match the reputation. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B01MQF4UWT” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Golds Gym Platinum Smith Machine[/easyazon_link] has a number of weak, plastic parts and again is a smith machine with many add-ons at the expense of reliability and function.

The gym could work for beginners who are able to get by with lighter weights. Using heavier loads can feel unstable on this unit, so heavier lifters should look to alternatives like the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00332ARK0″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]StrengthTech EXM2500S Home Gym[/easyazon_link]. If you’re a beginner looking to get introduced and don’t mind the expense of a unit like this which may only be useful for a year or two, by all means go ahead and indulge yourself.

Click here to read our full review of the Golds Gym Platinum Smith Machine.

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Marcy MP1300 Smith Machine

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B0041NM0ZU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Marcy MP1300 smith machine[/easyazon_link] does a good job of living up to its’ brand name. With that said, it’s still only recommended for beginners or intermediate users. Beyond a certain load, the unit begins to become unstable. The max load is generally around 300 lbs. This isn’t a bad limit though it is low for more advanced lifters.

This model can also suffer from some balance problems which may require a bit of anchoring work on your part. If you are intending to lift heavier we recommend a more stable, high-end unit such as the [easyazon_link identifier=”B001NXQFB6″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Body Solid Series 7[/easyazon_link]  or the [easyazon_link identifier=”B0041NM0ZU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Marcy Diamond Elite[/easyazon_link].

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Click here to read our full review of the Marcy MP1300 smith machine.