Weight training question

[Finelly]

Any thoughts on machines v. free weights? I'm more comfortable with the machines, since I can never remember what free weight exercises to do (probably if I did it for a week, it would stick in my mind!).

[Iapetus999]

Re: Weight training question

Yes.

It's all good.
The machines are a little "safer" in the sense that you usually can't drop it on yourself. That way you can do a little more weight.
The freeweights exercise your "core" more because not only are you pushing/pulling in a certain direction, you are holding the weights from moving side-to-side in an undesired direction.
Machines=more weight
Free= more muscles worked.

There are also some in-between machines usually with cables that simulate free weights but are safe like machines.

For beginners it's definitely better to use machines.

[Finelly]

Re: Weight training question

Thanks! Perhaps what I will do after I get stronger is to start slowly incorporating some free weights into my routine. That way I'll get both benefits.

[Iapetus999]

Re: Weight training question

Remember the free will be harder.
I can press 150 on a machine but only 130 free.
Of course the mechanics are different so the weight amount on a machine doesn't necessarily translate into free weight numbers.

[Jake]

Re: Weight training question

I'd recommend just starting off with free and lower weight. The payoff of using free weight is much greater when you get that much better of a workout and learn proper form. If you go from a machine to free weight than you'll have no idea how to stabalize the weight and use proper form so that you don't injure yourself.

[2big4mysize]

Re: Weight training question

the theory is that you get a better workout of that muscle group you are working using the machines because it isolates that muscle and you can't cheat and compensate with other stronger muscle groups like throwing the barbellsoverhead and not using the correct form to work that muscle group you want.

The downside is you work only that group and miss out on the extra cal burn and muscle work you get stabilizing the weights and balancing your body and the weight each lift like you do with the free weights.

it is safer to use the machines but if you have someone who knows what they are doing like a certified trainer you can start with lower weights and good form and work up on the free weights.

[Finelly]

Re: Weight training question

I get one free consultation with a personal trainer at my gym, but I am going to reserve that until the end of this summer, when I hope to start on OWL and start using free weights. I'm just now getting really consistent about my daily workouts and I'd like to cement that routine before I learn something new!

[jade]

Re: Weight training question

Hey Finelly,

Any thoughts on machines v. free weights? I'm more comfortable with the machines, since I can never remember what free weight exercises to do (probably if I did it for a week, it would stick in my mind!).

I started with free weights. After that I did try machines and just didn't get as good of a workout. When using free weights I was not only using the weight of the weight but the weight of my own body. When I did leg lifts for example, I had 1-2lb ankle weights on but was also lifting the weight of my leg minus the weights.
You do have to pay attention to form but most high school coaches can give you tips on proper form for weight loss as they have had to learn during their schooling.
My husband is a swim coach and was able to check my form so I didn't hurt myself.
I also use several workout videos that take you step by step through the workout.
I think it really depends on what you can afford. To use machines you either have to go to a gym or purchase them for home use. I guess what swayed me was the number of all of these devices I've seen at garage sales that people are not using. It doesn't mean they don't work but if you're not going to be committed to using them then they are a waste of money. Same with gym memberships.
Perhaps it all comes down to committment. I know for myself that I stuck with free weights because I don't like to work out in front of people for one thing, and I got a much better workout.


Happy Birthday USA!
jade

[Iapetus999]

Re: Weight training question

Most back exercises really require a machine. (pull downs, rows, etc)

You can do these with free weights but it's awkward.
Unless you can already do chinups its best to stick with the machines for these.

On the other hand, for abs there are hardly any machines worth anything. Just doing crunches, situps etc is enough.

[Jake]

Re: Weight training question

Most back exercises really require a machine. (pull downs, rows, etc)

Or..you could stick with your free weights doing Deadlifts, Bent Rows, Good Mornings, Barbell Rows, Chinups (as you said),and Bench/Lying Hyperextensions..learning the proper form for these wouldn't make it awkward..

[FightingTheFight]

Re: Weight training question

Jake, I would like to say that I totally agree with everything you've said.


Finelly, working with Free weights at first will help build a core strength for you. Like it was said earlier.

Heres a helpful site. Just click onthe muscles group and it will have exercises to work it and also explains how to do each of them. It takes practice but all worth it.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/exercises.htm

[ttdriver]

Re: Weight training question

Jake, I would like to say that I totally agree with everything you've said.


Finelly, working with Free weights at first will help build a core strength for you. Like it was said earlier.

Heres a helpful site. Just click onthe muscles group and it will have exercises to work it and also explains how to do each of them. It takes practice but all worth it.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/exercises.htm

What a great site! THANKS!!

Betty

[Finelly]

Re: Weight training question

I would have to buy free weights to use at home. I am NOT going to go to the gym with a set of instructions, lol!!!!!

[Jake]

Re: Weight training question

At the gyms here the instructions are printed right on the side of the machine, but if you go don't be afraid to talk to people, they won't be making fun of you for carrying around an instruction sheet everyone at some point was new to the gym. The steroid juice head guys usually want to be left alone but look for the normal people in good shape they'll be glad to teach you how to do something or work on your form. If you meet some nice people you get gym buddies and its a good thing..

[Finelly]

Re: Weight training question

Well, I know about the machines and their instructions, and i use them every day (alternating upper and lower body). It's the free weights I don't know, and I am not about to carry little cards with instructions around! lol