Hello,

New guy here…new to the forum and new to serious weight training. I am hoping to tap the expertise here and get some advice on an equipment purchase.

Keeping in mind my budget is restricted to $500USD or less, I started by looking at multi-station weight stack systems at sears by Weider. But I kept reading in forum posts “free-weights, free-weights, free-weights”. Although, I liked the idea of the convenience factor of a stack on a machine, I was concerned that with the small fixed amount of weight in the stack, anything like a leg press or bench would cap out fairly quickly. Plus, the more pulleys and cable you have, the more your chances of having problems with them.

So it has come down to a choice between two kinds of systems…I can not afford a nice power rack AND a bench AND a weight set, so these two options seemed good to me:

1. It is a smith machine with a bench made by Proform. Here is a Link:
http://www.iconfitness.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ProductDisplay?prmenbr=11052&prrfnbr=679842
This seemed like a good option until I found out that the barbell should not be loaded with more than 300lbs. Although that is of little concern now, there may come a day when I can squat more than 300 lbs. I also read on a forum (this one I think) that smith machines are not as good as a rack, because they limit your range of motion and the stuff you can do with them is limited, so I kept looking.
2. I found a nice thing at a local Sporting goods store that has a squat/safety half rack type of bench setup. I can’t find it on-line, but this link will show you a product that is almost identical, except that the lat tower on the one I am looking to get looks much more sturdy and it comes with a preacher curl attachment. This one says it can hold 500lbs.
http://www.getbrutus.com/scripts/cgiip.exe/WService=brutus/itemdetl.html?item=B435#

The important thing here is the difference between the smith machine in option 1. vs. the squat half rack in option 2. What do you think?

I am starting to lean toward option 2. The smith machine also concerns me in the regard that it might require additional maintenance if the sliders start sticking on the poles, etc. I would have a truly free barbell with option 2 and if I got stuck during a squat or bench, I could just drop it on the lower hook. Plus it is in stock right down the street, as opposed to option 1 needing to be shipped, and option 2 is $50USD less expensive. You know, as I read what I typed, it certainly sounds like I’ve already made up my mind…so I suppose what I am hoping for is confirmation that this system will be ok. If you think the smith machine system would be far superior for any reason, let me know. If you think they are both pieces of crap and I am stupid for looking for any equipment on such a limited budget, let me know that too.

As far as the weights go, I found this 310lbs set at a local store for $150. Seems like a good price. They are the ones that are completely coated with this colorful rubbery substance and they have holes to make them easier to handle. Is there any reason not to get the rubber coated ones?

Any responses will be greatly appreciated.

Brak

It depends on what types of stores you have around you, but I bought a bench + half-rack (w/ pulley system) and a olympic weight set for $350.

I got the Tracker 550 Half-Cage w/ Bench for $250 from Galyan's. It looks similar to this and is made by Icon Fitnes, but supports 610 lbs:
http://www.iconfitness.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ProductDisplay?prmenbr=11052&prrfnbr=360213

I got the olympic weights from Dick's Sporting Goods for $100. I think they are more now, but go on sale frequently.

I would second your second option because smith machines are pretty limiting. The one you linked to is inexpensive, and supports enough weight, but has very few pin placements. Take a look around at your local sporting good superstores to see if they have something similar for a similar price.

u can get a powertec rack for 300 and the multi angle bench for 150


that would be your best option, go to omni fitness

u can get a powertec rack for 300 and the multi angle bench for 150


that would be your best option, go to omni fitness

Unfortunately, then I still have to buy a weight set, so add $150 to that and now I am up to $600, (plus whatever shipping would be) well above my budget. Oh, and I went and looked at the racks, the least expensive is $399. I know that those are very nice pieces of equipment, but like I said in my original post, I just can't afford that AND a bench AND a weight set.

What did you think of the options that were within my budget?

Brak

I didn't look at either of the links, but, my husband and I have a ton of fitness equipment acquired over the last couple of years. My husband would love to get a smith machine. However can I suggest looking in your local paper to find someone perhaps selling weights with a bench. We bought some very inexpensively through our local paper and in a garage sale.

There are advantages to both the smith and the powercube. The initial cost of the Smith will always be higher due to the inherent design of the machine. It is interesting that the Smith bar is limited to 300 lbs, mine is 750. I don't plan on exceeding this capacity anytime soon. Club quality equipment will be 750 - 1000.

You might want to do some more research into the advantages of both before making your decision.