There are two basic kinds of weights: free weights and machine weights. While machine weights have their uses, and are not bad, especially for beginners, strength training using free weights is much more efficient. You may build muscle using machines, but strength training using free weights work more muscle groups, and you’re not restricted to just one or two exercises per machine. Instead, you can do literally dozens of exercises using just a few free weights.
Machine weights take up a lot of room. If you wanted to work out at home, you would have to take up at an entire room with machines in order to get the same benefits you’d get with a set of free weights. Dumbbells and benches can be easily taken apart and packed away for later use, while machines cannot.
One of the biggest advantages of strength training using free weights compared to using machines is that free weights work the small muscles you use to balance the weight. There are no cables or rods of metal holding the weight in place, so your body has to compensate by balancing the weight all by itself. There are hundreds of small muscles that you don’t normally think about that get worked when using free weights. These tiny muscles, when strengthened, can help increase your balance and add a component of explosive strength you might not possess if you were using machine weights alone.
As with most large purchases, things eventually come down to money. Machine weights can be costly. Even if you were to buy an ‘all in one machine’, you’re still looking at a few thousand dollars for a quality machine. Free weights on the other hand, don’t cost nearly as much. For just a few hundred dollars, you can purchase the essential weights and benches needed to put together a quality workout routine.
If you have a gym membership, take a close look at the floor on your next visit. You’ll probably find that the guys and gals who use the free weights are in better overall shape than those who use machine weights exclusively. This is because strength training using free weights is more efficient. In order to get the same results from a machine, you might have to work longer, which equates to time lost in the gym.
Some of us enjoy working out and lifting at the gym, but who likes to waste their time? If you knew that strength training using free weights would make you stronger quicker, wouldn’t you choose the free weights?
If you’re planning on using free weights in the near future, it’s imperative that you use proper form. While machine weights are rarely as effective, they do help with controlling the exercise, while free weights don’t. Preventing injuries that could sideline you for weeks should be your top priority. Make sure you have a spotter, and understand each lift and the proper procedure for that lift.
Strength training using free weights is clearly the best choice. However, if you enjoy the machine weights, there’s nothing wrong with mixing in a few lifts into your routine that use free weights.
For a kick butt strength training program using free weights that will get you lean and strong in just 90 days, visit: MAXWORKOUTS
P.S. If you enjoyed this article, please subscribe to Strength Training Exercise below (bottom left). We’ll let you know as soon new articles are posted, as well as send you informative tips and reviews relating to all things strength training.
{ 0 comments… add one now }