Free Weights Vs Machines - The Battle!
By Lynn
VanDyke
Editor's Summary: A short discussion of the merits of
free weights versus machines. The bottom line choice seems to be
made up of personal preference.
It seems like everyone has an opinion on this debate. Which is
better- free weights or machines? I asked my trainer friends what
they thought and it was pretty much split in half. One group loved
free weights and the other loved machines.
Those that are just beginning to strength train, those that are
rehabilitating a body part, those who want to isolate a particular
muscle, and those that want to lift large amounts of weight would
be better off selecting a machine. It is safer for your circumstances.
Here's why, free weights require users to have a base of strength,
balance and coordination. Machines provide that balance for you.
Using a machine the strength trainer can lift a weight in a relatively
safe manner. The exercise is guided along a pre-set path that does
not allow for unsafe movements. With free weights you are left to
your own devices. Your exercise path is whatever feels best for
you.
If you are setting up your own in-home gym, I would go with a set
of dumbbells. They are less expensive and take up less space. Less
is good. Buying an all-in-one machine may be what interests you
more and that's fine. Just be sure that all of the cable lines are
of strong and high quality material. Otherwise they will wear out
over time.
If you want variety in your exercise program, try free weights.
You can virtually do any exercise you want. You can also add in
fun side kicks such as a stability ball or balance board. With machines
you are limited to the one exercise it was built to perform.
In the end, the decision is yours. I think everyone has their own
opinion on which is better because we all have different goals and
tastes. Go with what you enjoy and prefer. Just be sure to keep
your routine fresh and fun.
Copyright 2005 strength-training-woman.com
Lynn VanDyke is the proud owner of http://www.strength-training-woman.com.
She is a certified personal trainer, nutritionist, and yoga instructor.
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