Free Weights vs Weight Machines

There are many different opinions as what is better to weight train with, free weights or weight training machines. Since both have advantages and disadvantages In this short post we will weigh the pros and cons of each.

One thing that is very certain is that we want to be able to train as a safely as possible. Without injury due to muscle stress and also without injury due to practical usage. It would be very easy for the novice individual to injure themselves with free weights without the experience and gradual increase in resistance when training with free weights. This could lead to muscle strain and tear and also a novice could suffer practical injury, such as dropping weights, failure to complete a repetition without a spotter , as in a bench press or squat etc. These are the types of factors that we must take into account when looking at advantages and disadvantages when using particular weight training equipment .

For the most part , machines are much better for the novice athlete. Resistance is easily adjusted , since most machines have weight stacks. There are many machines with built in safety mechanisms such as the Smith Machine. The Smith Machine also enables the lone athlete to work his exercises to total failure without the use of a spotter by implementing the safety locks at an appropriate height that would relieve his failing rep.

The weight training equipment machine also enables much better control of the movement during an exercise. This is also very useful when one is supporting and injury. In fact most rehab exercise are done on weight training machines. consider the MED X rehabilitation equipment. Their technology is designed for this specific purpose. With integrated computer software that monitors and records strength and progress of the injury.The machine keeps the injury in a sustainable resistance movement.

I, myself tend to move toward the free weight since it is the free weight that i feel gives me the most of my workouts and faster muscle growth. That's not to say that i don't use machines. I implement both, but where i can utilize a free weight , i usually do so.

I believe one of the reasons why there is a better workout with a Free weight as opposed to the machine, is because of the constant need for coordination during the exercise, which in my opinion enhances the resistance because one is constantly having to keep the weight training equipment balanced to maintain co-ordination throughout the movement.

When performed properly with good balance and co-ordination there is more joint stabilizer involvement and therefore more intensity.

Free weights are also very versatile. You can do most exercises needed for any routine, whether it be a split routine , or full body workout.

Although free weights give you an excellent workout, they also subject the user to more chance of an injury. This why i suggest beginners to start with the machine to gain strength at first before attempting free weights.

Also, if doing workouts to momentary muscular failure some exercises such as the bench press and squat for example would be very dangerous and subject to injury with out a spotter. Care must be taken when using all weight training equipment for any exercise.

So here we have a breakdown of some of the advantages and disadvantages to free weights vs machines. I hope this was enlightening and remember to train hard but train safe.