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Free Weights Or Machines

Free weights or machines? Ketchup or mustard? Blue or green? Ford or Chevy? We all have our views and opinions so I think I'll add mine!

I must say the free weight or machines debate is one of many that trainers have with each other. Even gym rats, yoga instructors and my mom have a say as to which is better.

Here's My View on Free Weights or Machines

Machines are good. You've probably noticed that I don't have many exercise pics on this site that include the use of machines. That's just because I find it easier to display the exercise using free weights.

Here are some advantages you may find working with machines-

* Beginners may like the guidance that a machine provides

* There is not much thought involved since the machine moves you along a restrictive range of motion

* Balance is not required

* Machines tend to be better at isolating a particular muscle group- for example machines can isolate the biceps a bit better than free weights

Here are a list of disadvantages I find with machines-

* Watch out if you are not of 'normal' size. If you are taller, shorter or larger than a 'normal' person, you may find the machine doesn't quite fit you

* Since little balance is required, you don't have an opportunity to progress in balance and coordination

* Since your range of motion is on a guided track, you may find that the muscles are strengthened to the machine's track, and not your ROM (range of motion)

* These things are gigantic

* And costly (FYI- but save you money compared to fitness club fees year after year!)

* You must learn the proper use of more than one machine since some machines focus on one muscle group at a time (unless you have an all-in-one machine).

* You are limited to the exercises that your machine is able to do. If you get an all-in-one machine be sure you get one that has all the attachments and gadgets. Exercise variety is good!

The other part of this free weights or machines debate is obviously the advantages and disadvantages of free weights.

Here are some advantages of using free weights-

* One pair of free weights can be used for virtually any and all exercises

* Free weights build balance and coordination because you must use all of your support muscles when performing an exercise

* Free weights allow you to move along your own unique path of motion. Because of this range of motion, free weights tend to mimic real life movements

* Free weights are small and portable. Hide them under the bed or in the closet. Throw a pair in the trunk when on vacation

* Dumbbells are beginning to come in many colors. Some even have gel handles. Ohhhh la la.

* They are cheap

And it wouldn't be fair without a few downfalls to using free weights-

* If you are a beginner, it is not a good idea to lift heavy free weights without a spotter. This can lead to injury

* Because balance and coordination are required, some users may find it difficult to concentrate on a particular movement because they cannot steady themselves properly

* While free weights build lean muscle mass, they are not as good as machines in isolating a muscle. So if you are really trying to pump up that bicep, a machine would be better.

So What Is Your Answer, Lynn?
Free Weights or Machines?

My answer is this- free weights or machines. It doesn't matter because they both play a role in fitness. Both lead to adding lean muscle mass and both are better than sitting on the couch.

Using free weights or machines is one of the many decisions you will have to make on a personal level. What feels right for you? What feels best for your body? What are your particular goals? And which would achieve your goals better? Free weights or machines?

My personal preference is using free weights. I enjoy the wide variety of exercises and I absolutely love using the stability ball in conjunction with the weights. I have found I enjoy working out from home as well. I didn't really want 30 machines in my house ;)

I realize this didn't exactly end the free weights or machines debate, but I hope it shed some light on the topic for you.



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