Hammer-Strength Machines

migm · #1 05-01-2007, 07:03 PM

So these machines seem to provide a decent alternative to the flat/incline/decline bench press. What are the disadvantages of using these machines? Are the pros/cons such that the advantage still leans heavily towards the bbell bench press and company?

Down 2 Die · #2 05-01-2007, 07:32 PM

While Hammer Strength are hands down my favorite machines, they will never be a match for the barbell or dumbbell. They provide a nice ROM, but it is still a definite ROM, leaving litle room for error. Of course they do have a place in a workout. You could use them as a pre-exhaust, doing them before moving on to other chest exercises, or anywhere else in your workout for that matter.

sloh · #3 05-01-2007, 07:38 PM

i would have to disagree with that. i know of people who have switched barbell pressing to using the HS machines and it has not really been that detrimental to their progress. i am also contemplating on if i should give up barbell pressing altogether since i train alone and do not always have a spotter. i realize that my mind-muscle connection comes more into play as well when i am using the HS machines and i feel like i am working my chest more effectively. however, when i am benching, i am constantly worrying about going on to the next rep and if i'll be able to get it up.

RuSerious · #4 05-01-2007, 07:40 PM

They are a great change of pace and should be incorporated into your routine if possible. If you are older it's a very good alternative.

migm · #5 05-01-2007, 07:40 PM

[ QUOTE ]
i would have to disagree with that. i know of people who have switched barbell pressing to using the HS machines and it has not really been that detrimental to their progress. i am also contemplating on if i should give up barbell pressing altogether since i train alone and do not always have a spotter. i realize that my mind-muscle connection comes more into play as well when i am using the HS machines and i feel like i am working my chest more effectively. however, when i am benching, i am constantly worrying about going on to the next rep and if i'll be able to get it up.

[/ QUOTE ]

Agreed. This is my greatest motivation in switching to these machines at least on an intermittent basis. Can someone else speak to the pros and cons to these machines and possibly compare them to their bbell equivalents?

Awesome · #6 05-01-2007, 09:27 PM

Change the word "alternative" to "supplement" and you got a winning statement. Well, at least in my mind.

Dzoni · #7 05-01-2007, 10:08 PM

HS machines are good. Same as smiths, especially if you're doing a 110% all out one set. Who's there to help you if you're training alone. Hit the machines. Of course bb's and db's have their advantages, but in my mind, I rather be safe than sorry [img]/forum/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img]

Down 2 Die · #8 05-01-2007, 10:24 PM

Yes, I didn't realize we were speaking merely in terms of when there's not a spot available. The way I perceived the first post was that it was just a question of which is better. I agree with Awesome, that they are a fantastic supplement to a workout. But yes, if alone, better safe than sorry.

Dzoni · #9 05-01-2007, 10:30 PM

Even without talking about spots or training partners. It still is a good machine to use. I mean if you progress enough on a Hammer Strength Chest Press, and you're pushing 300-400lb on it, your chest is going to have no choice but to grow. Why would it still be small, if you've got 300lb of force? Smaller ROM or not.

Down 2 Die · #10 05-01-2007, 10:37 PM

I'm not arguing that they are bad machines. I think they are great machines. I used them instead of barbell for about 2 months last year and got up to pushing 360 lbs. on it, and saw clear growth in my chest. I have not said at any point that they should be avoided.

I do believe, however, that barbell and dumbbell are more effective and should never be thrown out in exchange for a machine.