SAM’S REVIEW: ATX® Belt Squat Compact ATX-BSM-600

Some belt squat designs can make setting up the exercise complicated. On this machine it couldn’t be simpler. Put on your belt squat belt and hitch it to one of the two belt hooks. Use which ever one gets you into the best position.  

To start the exercise just stand up. The handles automatically pull forward and you can start your set using the handles as support. With a massive 100cm x 50cm base, you have plenty of space to shuffle your feet into the best position.  

Straight away will notice that the angle of the attachment is perfect. On inferior belt squats you can really find yourself being dragged forward. However, this design ensures that the resistance is pulling you down instead of forward.  

Another issue on cheaper machines is that the range of motion can be an issue. Once again, thanks to this innovative design you can go down really deep.  

When you finish your set, simple pull the handle back and engage the lever arm on one of the two start/stop positions.  Then un hook your belt and limp away.  

The build on this machine is second to none. By using the latest technologies, they can make the design simpler and throw in better quality materials. Take for example the start stop mechanism. It has 10mm thick chrome plated teeth. It pivots at the bottom on bearings. When you lift, the strut at the base pulls the handle back. 

Same with the lever arm. You hook up to 10mm plate steel. It is braced in multiple places and welded to the frame of the arm. At the back it also pivots on industrial bearings. The weight horns have 365mm of loading area. New ATX machines are now coming with chromed 50mm sleeves. They are angled so you won’t need collars. 

If you run out of room on the sleeves you can utilise the band peg system. This is not your normal band system. It has roller sleeves to protect your resistance bands. Plus you can just use one, instead of having to set up a pair.  

Finally the footplate is massive and grippy.  

This is better than many belt squat machines that are claiming to be commercial. We sold one of our first ones to Camperdown Fitness which is one of Sydney’s biggest gyms. When we got our next delivery they bought another two.  

Now ATX have rated this at 300kgs. I know that these machines can take more. This rating is part of the EU certification process, so you can only compare this rating if a machine has undergone the same certification.  

As the weight plates are further down the arm compared to other leverage style machines, you don’t get as much leverage advantage. So you will be closer to lifting 300kgs than 200kgs.

Given the quality, footprint (only 160 x 120cm), functionality and price, if you are looking for a quality belt squat machine you will be hard pressed finding better. When judging other belt squats take very close notice of the range of motion and whether the machine is pulling you forward.  

At the $1,500 mark, whether you are a home user, personal trainer or gym, there won’t be many quality leg machines at this price.  

 It is a favourite of Big Matty Gees so it will be here in the showroom for you to come in and try out.