Ever wondered why your squats feel lighter—or heavier—on the Smith machine at Planet Fitness compared to other gyms? Knowing exactly how much the Smith machine bar weighs can make a big difference in tracking your progress and planning your workouts.
This article will clear up the confusion by revealing the standard weight of Planet Fitness’s Smith machine bar. You’ll also find tips on how to use this information to accurately log your lifts and get better results.
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How Much Does the Planet Fitness Smith Machine Bar Weigh?
If you’ve ever stepped inside a Planet Fitness, you’ve probably noticed their Smith machines lined up and ready for action. Smith machines are popular in these gyms and are used for everything from squats to bench presses. But when it comes time to add up your lifting numbers, one question that frequently pops up is: How much does the Smith machine bar at Planet Fitness actually weigh?
Let’s clear up the confusion and give you an in-depth look at the topic, so you can lift smarter and track your progress with confidence.
The Short Answer: Planet Fitness Smith Machine Bar Weight
Generally, the Smith machine bar in most Planet Fitness locations weighs 15-20 pounds (about 7-9 kg). This is lighter than a standard Olympic barbell, which weighs 45 pounds (20 kg). The main reasons for this difference are the design of the Smith machine, the counterbalancing system, and the type of bars used at Planet Fitness.
Let’s explore why this is the case, how you can be sure, and what practical steps you can take to maximize your workouts.
Understanding Smith Machines at Planet Fitness
What Is a Smith Machine?
A Smith machine is a type of weightlifting equipment where the barbell moves along fixed rails, allowing only vertical (or slightly angled) movement. This provides more stability compared to free weights and can make weightlifting feel a little easier and safer, especially for beginners.
Key Features:
- Guided bar path for smoother movements
- Built-in safety hooks for easy rack/unrack
- Typically equipped with a counterbalance system
Why Is the Smith Machine Bar Lighter?
- Counterbalance Mechanism
- Most Smith machines use a counterweight system, which offsets part of the bar’s own weight.
- The counterbalance often brings the “effective” weight down to about 15-20 lbs.
- Purpose & Safety
- Planet Fitness markets itself as a “Judgement Free Zone” and aims to make fitness approachable for all.
- Lighter bars make the equipment less intimidating, encouraging new gym-goers and beginners to use it without fear.
- Manufacturer Variations
- Different Smith machines from various manufacturers can have bars that weigh anywhere from 6 lbs to nearly 45 lbs, depending on the model and year.
How to Determine the Actual Weight at Your Planet Fitness
While 15-20 lbs is accurate for most locations, some slight variation can exist from gym to gym. Here’s how you can check:
- Ask a Staff Member
- Most staff members either know the exact bar weight or can check with management.
- Look for Manufacturer Labels
- Sometimes, a sticker or plate on the machine will list the bar’s weight.
- Test the Bar Yourself
- If you can, use a handheld luggage scale to weigh the Smith machine bar. (Take care to do this safely!)
- Compare with Standard Barbells
- If your gym has regular free-weight barbells, pick up a 15-lb dumbbell or bar. Compare how the Smith machine bar “feels” in both hands.
Common Smith Machine and Bar Weights in Gyms
- Standard Olympic Barbell: 45 lbs (20 kg)
- Typical Smith Machine Barbell (Uncounterbalanced): 30-45 lbs (13-20 kg)
- Planet Fitness Smith Machine (with counterbalance): 15-20 lbs (7-9 kg)
- Home/Commercial Smith Machines (varied): 6-35 lbs (with/without counterbalance)
Benefits of Knowing the Smith Machine Bar Weight
Understanding the actual weight is crucial for:
- Accurate Progress Tracking: You’ll know exactly how much you’re lifting and can compare performances across different equipment.
- Effective Program Planning: Calculating training loads and increments correctly.
- Safer Lifting: Avoid underestimating or overestimating the weight (and possible injury as a result).
- Improved Confidence: Knowledge removes the guesswork and lets you focus on form and consistency.
Challenges and Misconceptions
Lifting on a Smith machine isn’t quite the same as lifting with a free barbell. Here are some aspects to consider:
1. The “Sticking Point” Myth
Some people believe Smith machines are “too easy.” While they do remove the challenge of balancing the bar, they have their own unique movement pattern which changes muscle recruitment.
2. Overestimating Your Lift Numbers
A lighter starting bar weight may make your total lift seem higher. Always remember to factor in the bar’s true weight on the Smith machine when calculating your performance.
3. Plate Math Confusion
Most weight plates are standardized, but remember: always add the weight of the bar (even if it’s just 15 lbs) to your total load.
Practical Tips for Your Smith Machine Workouts
Ready to make the most of your Planet Fitness Smith machine sessions? Follow these best practices to ensure safety and progress:
1. Start with the Bar Only
Begin your session with just the bar to get a feel for the range of motion and resistance. This is particularly useful if you’re new to Smith machines.
2. Add Plates Gradually
Since the bar is lighter, it’s easy to get excited and pile on plates quickly. Increase weight in small increments and focus on proper form.
3. Log Your Workouts
Always note the bar weight used in your training log. For example, “Smith Squat: 65 lbs (including 15-lb bar).”
4. Mix Smith and Free Weights
Smith machines are fantastic for targeting form and controlled movement, but combine them with free barbell work to develop balance, stability, and muscle synergy.
5. Use the Safety Features
Don’t be shy about engaging the safety stops or hooks if you’re lifting alone. That’s what they’re there for!
6. Adjust Your Numbers
If you transition between Smith machine and free weight movements, recalculate your 1-rep max and working weights accordingly.
Real-World Scenarios: Tracking Progress
Let’s say you’re performing a bench press on the Smith machine at Planet Fitness:
- You load two 25-lb plates on each side.
- Total weight from plates = 100 lbs.
- Add the Smith machine bar (15 lbs).
- Total weight lifted = 115 lbs.
Write it down in your training log as “Smith Machine Bench Press: 115 lbs (including 15-lb bar).”
The Bottom Line
The Smith machine bar at Planet Fitness almost always weighs between 15 and 20 pounds — thanks to its counterbalanced, beginner-friendly design. Knowing this helps you keep your training data accurate, preventing confusion and setting you up for clear, measurable progress.
So next time you rack up those plates at Planet Fitness, remember to include the bar’s weight, lift with confidence, and enjoy your fitness journey — one rep at a time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does the Smith machine bar at Planet Fitness weigh?
The Smith machine bar at most Planet Fitness gyms weighs between 15 and 20 pounds, much lighter than a standard 45-pound Olympic barbell. The reduced weight is due to the bar’s counterbalance system.
Is the Smith machine bar weight included in my total lift?
Yes, you should always count the bar’s weight when adding up your total lift. For example, if you have 40 pounds of plates on, and the bar weighs 15 pounds, your total is 55 pounds.
Why is the Smith machine bar at Planet Fitness lighter than a regular barbell?
Planet Fitness uses Smith machine bars with a counterbalance system. This makes the bar easier to handle and more accessible for beginners, which matches the gym’s focus on welcoming new members.
Are all Smith machine bars at every Planet Fitness the same weight?
While most Smith machine bars at Planet Fitness are between 15-20 pounds, there may be minor differences due to manufacturer variations or machine age. It’s always a good idea to double-check with your local staff if you’re unsure.
Can I use Smith machine lifts to substitute for free weight exercises?
Smith machines are great for controlled, stable movements and can help improve your form. However, they don’t fully replicate the experience of free weights, as they limit your range of motion and reduce the need for stabilizing muscles. Mixing both types in your program offers the best of both worlds.
With this knowledge, you’re well equipped to maximize your time and gains on the Smith machine — happy lifting!