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Machines or Free Weights? Which are Better?
Some say it's the machines, while others, free
weights. There are pros and cons to each form weight training method. Ideally, you should
be able to use both methods in your workouts for best results. Below is a comparison of
these two methods:
Machines
Pro:
Some machines enable you to isolate a
targeted muscle or muscles more effectively.
They are easy to learn and use. The
adjustment of height and weight cab be done within seconds. You won't have to waste
valuable time changing the plates.
They are safer than free weights, especially
for beginners. The weights are usually mounted on sliding rods and secured by locking
pins.
Con:
You seldom achieve the synergist effect (few
muscles working together) because most of the machines force you to move a weight along a
fixed path.
It is impractical to have machines in your
home to have a complete whole body workout.
You'll get too accustomed to the machines in
your gym that if you trained in another gym that has only free weights or different types
of machines, you'll be lost or feel uncomfortable.
Although they are adjustable, some users
still could not use the machines effectively because of their body size and shape.
Free Weights (Barbells and Dumbbells)
Pro:
They are more versatile. You can practically
perform hundreds of exercise with only a pair of dumbbells. And due to this, they allow
you to mimic the neurological and movement patterns of sports. People with any size and
shape can also exercise effectively.
They allow you to develop the smaller
muscles, together with the major muscles.
They are much cheaper.
Con:
You can get injured if you dropped a weight
accidentally.
Barbell plates can slip off the bar if the
collars are not used or insecure properly.
It is time consuming to change plates.
For certain exercises, it is difficult to
isolate a muscle effectively.
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