You have chosen the gym that is right for you and are suddenly faced with another decision. You know that muscle building is going to be an important part of your workouts but you are confused as to whether you should work on the weight machines or give the free weights a try. You have heard that each builds muscle differently, but are unsure as to which is better for you. It is true, both free weights and machines have many benefits. Which of them is right for you depends on your goals.
The benefits of weight machines
• Machines help decrease the chance of injury. If you are new at strength training, the machines will compensate for your lack of experience. You will learn how to perform exercises correctly with the appropriate range of motion.
• Machines help people learn which motions are required to work specific muscle groups. The machines isolate specific muscle groups and often have pictures and explanations on them.
• Machines can speed up your workout. Changing the pin on a machine is easier than changing the plates on a barbell. (Some machines also require you to move the seat to the appropriate height.)
• Machines allow you to continue your workouts even when you are injured. Machines create support for the injured area, allowing you to work other muscle groups.
• Machines are easier to master and are often less intimidating. Often, only a few sessions with a trainer can get you started on a program using weight machines; however, careful instruction and training is necessary to become confident when lifting free weights.
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The benefits of free weights
• Free weights allow you to coordinate many muscle groups with each exercise, improving your posture and balance. For example: When working your biceps with a machine, you strengthen only the biceps muscle. The machine will help you isolate the biceps muscle but will also support your body and your arm while you perform the exercise. However, if your biceps are done standing with free weights you are required to use many accessory muscles.
Page 1 of 2 – Discover the health benefits of working out using free weights on page 2.
