Anyone that has been to a gym before will have noticed people using the exercise machines. Which type of equipment should we be using in our fitness training? Some may prefer using the machines while others may like to use old fashioned free weights. I think the machines are excellent for those beginning their fitness program because they are supportive and easy to follow the correct movement. However they are not good in strengthening weakness in one side since most of them require you to use both arms or legs to move the weight. I find exercise machines do not take up as much time to change the weights which can be good if you have limited time to do your program.

When using free weights you have to know the correct technique to perform otherwise you could hurt yourself and not train the particular muscle group properly. You have more freedom during training because they can be used for a variety of different exercises. I like using free weights because they make you use stabilizing muscles not used when exercising on a machine. Therefore your workout is more effective. Another advantage I have found is that you can add any amount of extra weight you desire and are not limited to the set weight from a machine. If you are looking to set up a home gym then free weights are the best cost effective solution. They are excellent for those that do not have much space at home.

If you had a choice between the two systems I would recommend using machines for 20% and free weights 80% of your workout. I guess it comes down to choosing the best training equipment that fits in with your lifestyle. It is important that you always perform the correct movement to reduce the risk of injury. It will benefit you to spend the time to learn the proper techniques.

This entry was posted on Monday, May 11th, 2009 at 9:15 pm and is filed under Fitness & Exercise. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.