Hack Squats ... Machine Vs Barbell

[crazyfacials]

which one do you prefer? the gym I go to doesn't have one so I have to do it with a barbell...but I am thinking of changing gyms anyway, but if it was up to you, which version would you prefer? I feel/look unco with a barbell (not to mention I am the only one @ my gym who does it)

[cantygirl]

Barbell squats separate the men from the boys. Personally I find you get better bang for your buck using free weights, though machines do have a place in any program when it comes to variety and they are excellent for newbies to establish correct form. However, for any experienced gym goer, how can you walk past a squat rack and not want want to load that bad boy up!!!!

[PeterDolan]

Never done barbell hacks but generally this exercise (machine or BB) is the last compound movement for legs when used. Usually this means your legs are so fucked that free weights can be difficult enough to balance, let alone move some heavy weight. Answer, go with what you feel the most comfortable doing.

You may like to look up EMG tests for both versions if you wanna know which is, in theory, better for you

[cruxis]

I prefer the hack squat sled, after I have done my BB squat. Mainly cuase I dont have to confidence to goto failure on BB squat. With hack squat I can go hard without a spotter to. Also the machine I use fits me. I just lightly touch the bottom safety catches at my full range motion. My stance is quad dominant though as I hit hammies another day.

[michaelk]

Prefer the sled as it allows me to adjust my foot placement, I've tried the BB Hack (where you hold the bar behind your bum) and found it awkward also.

Front squats on a smith allow the various foot placements like the sled if they have one.

[oldfella]

Front squats on a smith allow the various foot placements like the sled if they have one.

Ahhh, the michaelk special eh!! :cry:

[Monarchking]

bb hacks also pull hard on your traps.

[crazyfacials]

yeah everyone here brings good points IMO

I never thought of doing it on a smith machine ...come to think of it that doesn't sound bad now (I tend to avoid the smith machine but I guess it's one of the best machines that can mimic what a hack squat machine does)

Yes I am a fan of free weights/barbells, but I feel/look awkward doing it, please I too feel it pulls alot of my traps too

good thing I work out my legs on sat when the gym is empty-ish...

cheers all for your input, I apperciate it

:nod:

[Monarchking]

yeah everyone here brings good points IMO

I never thought of doing it on a smith machine ...come to think of it that doesn't sound bad now (I tend to avoid the smith machine but I guess it's one of the best machines that can mimic what a hack squat machine does)

Yes I am a fan of free weights/barbells, but I feel/look awkward doing it, please I too feel it pulls alot of my traps too

good thing I work out my legs on sat when the gym is empty-ish...

cheers all for your input, I apperciate it

:nod:

if you feel retarded doing bb hacks, try elevating your heels a bit on a plate, that might help.

[drizzt]

I tried BB hacks a couple of times, loved the movement over that of a machine. If I was to start hack squatting again, I'd probably go for the BB movement, as I feel I get slightly more work out of it than I do on a sled. Maybe it's in my head, but it's what I'll run with :shifty: