Free Weights vs. Machines
It’s not long ago that ago that someone asked me whether it’s better to use machines versus using your free weights. For those who don’t know free weights is lifting weights with dumbbells, barbells as well as plates.
Now for many they love the feeling that machines give them. People push to the max, they feel the burn and when they get tired, they just let the machine go and normally that’s it.
With free weights though you’re required to control the entire movement and if you decide to just let the dumbbells go, you can seriously hurt yourself.
That being said though you shouldn’t shy away from using free weights. Free weights allows you to train the stabilizing muscles of the body unlike machines which basically stabilizes the weight for you.
In the end the best option is to train with both and to train hard! Nothing replaces hard work and dedication and really the method you take to achieving your results will not be made or broken by using free weights or machines but more so on your hard work and dedication to succeed.
I’d love to hear what your thoughts are about whether you enjoy lifting with free weights vs. working out with machines.
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August 17th, 2007 at 4:26 pm
I don’t like using free weights. For some reason, I feel like when I use the machine it does some of the work for me. It may be psychological but I feel protected by the machine..lol
August 23rd, 2007 at 3:10 am
I can definitely attest to that since I use to be a big fan of machines as well.
Feeling protected is a great feeling to have when lifting weights but you can also feel protected with using free weights by learning how to do the exercises properly and not lifting any weight that would sacrifice your lifting technique.
I strongly suggest hiring a trainer for those who are not familiar with how to lift free weights, even if it’s just for one session.