Plate Loaded Hammer Strength Bench

I just switched gyms and my new gym has this machine. I know a lot of the big guys on this forum love this piece of equipment, but what about for a newb? Should I stick to conventional benching mostly?

Nothing wrong with using machines over freeweights if it lets you reach your goals better

But you should know yourself and have been training long enough to be able to make that decision

The real measure of a man is how many plates he can use on the HS shoulder press…

Hammer Strength stole my heart.

I like the plate loaded Hammer Strength machines better for a n00b. I’m tempted to say I like them better period. No need for a spotter, stability, etc. etc.

I like dumbell incline, but the HS machine has it’s place.

If you like the feel then use it for a while, still mix in dumbell and barbell variations though.

I never liked their bench, but I loved their incline press. Guess it’s a matter of taste… but weight is weight. Just push it. But definitely work in dumbell and barbell variations as well.

Yep, use it. HS chest press machines work great on my chest. I still do flat BB bench though for general strength, even if I don’t feel it work my chest as well.

Use it. Especially if you like how it feels. There is no right answer here.

Like the HS iso-lateral press, but not a great machine for rest pausing…

hmmm yeah this a great machine! but dont let it be ur primary mass builder.i reckon use free weights for ur first exercise THEN use this sexy thing =D ul further hit the target muscle without worryin bout stabilisers n also itl boost ur cuz ul be piling weight on.
but yes: FREE weights then HS

I wish I had this at my gym, my old gym had it and when my shoulder acted up I used it as a substitute from my bench and as a way to isolate my pecs more.