Free Weights Vs Machines

If you’re new to the scenery of a gym facility, you’re probably overwhelmed by seeing a large variety of equipment. Once you’ve mastered the cardio room, you’ll make your way to try some resistance exercises. You’ll notice two main differences with the equipment in this room; free weights (dumbbells, barbells, kettle bells etc) and machines (cable weight stacks, smith machine, plate loadable equipment etc). 

So what’s the difference? Which is better? 

For many people, dumbbells and barbells are used to provide a great workout. Free weights, together with a bench and a rack, offer a great variety of exercises. Some advantage of free weights are:

– Can be used at home or at a gym .

– Functional to everyday movements

– You can increase strength through a full range of motion

– Sport specific movements can be trained with free weights

– You can strengthen large muscle groups at once, saving time and increasing heart rate

– Free weights require more coordination and control than machine weights which guide you through a fixed range of motion

– Free weights are more challenging.

Many machines use a stack of weight as a means of resistance. By the use of cams, cables, gears and pulleys, the resistance from the weight stack can be controlled by one specific movement. Still other machines may require giant springs or rubber bands to provide resistance, and may be less capable of gradual increases in resistance. Some large multi-station weight machines allow a variety of exercises for a full body workout.

– Focuses on one muscle group at a time , great for isolation.

– Goes through a guided and specific range of motion, which can be great when starting strength training or rehabilitating from an injury.

– Assists with control of movement .

– If the machine is properly adjusted it can provide proper form through the lift.

Both types of resistant equipment has its individual advantages. The decision on which one you want to use should be considered on your current goals and training experience. Either way, they are both a great way to add variety and enjoyment to your health and fitness routine.