Squat Machines

[Toadly]

I was wondering if anyone has or can recommend a squat machine or is effective in working that legs.

Thanks,
New member 'Toadly'

[hardcore210]

Cybex Plate Loaded Squat Press

HC210

[C A]

almost any leg press is good too.

[ratmonkey]

Originally Posted by hardcore210

Cybex Plate Loaded Squat Press

HC210

bump on that for a leg press. love the plate load squat presses.

[Riemann]

Why don't you just do regular barbell squats bud? They are not "bad for your knees" or "bad for your back." Anything else is just for those too lazy to squat.

[NDK]

I like Hammer Strength hack squat machine, however the one in my gym can't be loaded beyond 495.

[garyzilla]

Bro,

Unless your hurt or soemthing do not do squat machines. Do the real thing and get to the squat rack. Trust me.

[spookaroo]

I usually do leg press along with squats not either or...
As a change of pace I'll use a smith machine occasionally. I don't really like the hack squats cause of knee problems.
For my money though nothing beats free weight for squats.

[bigboy]

i agree barbell and plates the only way to squat. unless your hurt or a pussy. the squat is one of the best all around lifts. if you do choose to squat, squat parrallel or just below, if you dont your cheating yourself.

[NCBIGGJ]

I dont feel as comfortable in a smith machine for squats. I do free bar and I will use the plate loaded leg press for a change of pace. I also like the hack squat, to finish off the legs after a good squat day..

[Chip Bronson]

i've got a powertech leverage squat/calf-raise machine. works like a charm and i got it delivered for $400. great piece of equipment imho, good results and i highly recommend it.

[bjuicen]

I like to alternate a month of reg squats and a month of smith squats

[Ronin_]

I always do squats, I never do either or, I add leg press/ hack squats and leg extensions to them. If my glutes are growing ahead of my thighs as they tend to do, I put squats later in the workout. That way i work stabiliser muscles still and also get the cosmetic effect I want

[Ramstein II]

I'll chime in on this. Leg press and hack squats are good leg machines that simulate squats. Squats are regarded as the king of exercises yada yada. But, they are not for everyone. Biomechanics are unique. I've trained with people who were definitely not wimps, not injured, who had incredible athleticism and strength, but who had no business squating because of their unique shape. If you have a high center of gravity, inflexible lower back, inflexible ankles etc..., then squats may not be the best leg pressing exercise for you. Front squats or machines may be better choices. Also, as a bodybuilder you may have other training priorities, such as more quad development in which case front squats or leg presses might be better if you hip squat.

I offer this simply to keep our minds open to other training ideas for individual differences. Also, stability training is not so much a concern for bodybuilders.

I would say this though, if you do care about functional strength and don't squat and rely on machines, it is crucial to strengthen the lower back to avoid a leg/erector imbalance. If your legs can press 600lbs, but your lower back can only cary 200lbs, then something could seriously give in real world strength application. Remember in the real world your legs are only as strong as your back and your chest is only as strong as your triceps.