Smith machine gyms combine a guided barbell system with traditional multi gym cable stations. The vertical rails allow safe solo training for squats, bench press and shoulder press without a spotter. Bar weight typically starts at 10-15kg before adding plates.
These hybrid systems need 2.5m x 2.5m minimum floor space and 2.3m ceiling height. Popular for serious home lifters wanting both compound movements and isolation exercises. Expect to pay £800-£2,500. Most include lat pulldown, cable crossover and leg press attachments alongside the Smith bar.
