Machines

[unclecoolguy]

I was wondering what you all thought about using machines verses free weights. I do not have a work out partner so I have to use machines.... I would prefer free weights. So any info that can be given on machines would be great.

[Notbigenuff]

Personally, I prefer free weights - I think they help better with balance and stabilization. But, having said that, I also think that machines have a place, too and have been known to use them on occasion.

The real point is that you just get in there and start moving some weight/resistance around! Good luck.

[biguglymofo]

agreed. Freeweights are better, but machines have their place. if you're worried about spotters, use a lighter weight, or don't hesitate to ask for a spot. another thing you could do is use a smith machine. They do restrict your movement, but it's better than not lifting at all and a tad better than other machines.

[brent]

Look for machines by Hammer Strength Systems, of ask if your gym has any "Hammer" machines. They are also better than most machines. Sometimes I will use lighter free weights, then go heavy on machines later.

[ethernet_jock]

When I was going to a gym - I too REALLY enjoyed working between the free weights and the hammer strength machines. I found that pretty much ALL the HS machines were incredibly well made and facilitated form much more than limiting it (natilus). They were good enough to be the only machines that were placed IN the free weight area while all the "circuit" machines were out with the treadmills, elipticals, etc...

[Mdlftr]

A good balance between weights and machines in your workout repetoire would be ideal.

Free weights are generally better for building mass and strength. They generally allow better freedom of movement and they help to strenghten stabilizer muscles that machines prevent you from using.

Example: Free weight bench with dumbbells or a barbell versus a machine. Your stablilizer muscles in your arms and torso get much more stress and become stronger (leading to more overall core strength, and ultimately the ability to lift more, safely) when you use the free weights, rather than the machines.

Machines, however, allow you to hit muscle groups in ways that free weights don't. For example, rear deltoid push while seated facing backwards on a flye machine. You can do this with light dumbbells (shoulders need smaller weights until you build up sufficient strength) but the cables in the flye machine allow for a good range of motion and smooth execution of the exercise. Superior to a dumbbell in that instance, in my opinion.


Give them both a try. Personally, for example, I think incline leg press machines are better for people's backs over squats. Done correctly, free weight (and even Smith machine) squats are a great mass and strength exercise. Unfortunately, many people may have back or neck problems as they go through life which prohibit the placing of large amounts of weight on their neck or spine. In that case, incline leg presses are a very good, healthy alternative.

Good luck and get lifting!

Mdlftr

[brent]

OK Md, I was agreeing whole-heartedly, until I reached this choice bit:

Originally Posted by Mdlftr

...
Personally, for example, I think incline leg press machines are better for people's backs over squats. Done correctly, free weight (and even Smith machine) squats are a great mass and strength exercise. Unfortunately, many people may have back or neck problems as they go through life which prohibit the placing of large amounts of weight on their neck r spine. In that case, incline leg presses are a very good, healthy alternative.

Good luck and get lifting!

Mdlftr

My brother-in-law is a physical therapist, and he says that the incline leg-press tears up your back. That machine bought his wife's new Mercedes. As for me, I'm sticking with the squat, done with STRICT form.

Note: Never arch your back. Wether on the bench-press, leg press, or any other exercise. Don't race to do more weight that you can safely handle: you can't grow when you are injured!

[biguglymofo]

I've heard the same thing about leg press and back. Mainly It's my understanding that it's crucial not to curve your back. I've never had problems with my back on leg press, but I only lower the weight to where my knee forms a 90 degree angle and I keep my back firmly on the seat. I have had problems with squats, but this was due to form....leaning forward, etc.

[Mdlftr]

Brent,
Funny that your brother in law the PT doesn't encourage the leg press. My PT (post-surgery) was all for it! Based on my own results, I have no complaints!

Form and appropriate weight and NO back arching are key.

Mdlftr

[brent]

He doesn't hate the leg press, just the opposite: he LOVES it! Over 60% of his practice comes from that one machine. It's the machine that made him a millionaire. Why would he dislike it? He just doesn't want his family using it...

[glammaman2000]

...but they're not for everyone.You have to have enough flexion in your hips so that the hip socket is the fulcrum for the weight.If the only way you can lower the weight is by tipping your pelvis under,this makes your lower back the fulcrum.Bad idea.

[Buffling]

Originally Posted by brent

the incline leg-press tears up your back. That machine bought his wife's new Mercedes. As for me, I'm sticking with the squat, done with STRICT form.

Come on. Be a man. Do both the squat AND the leg press