Is it better to use free weights or machines?
As a Personal Trainer in St. Louis, there are certain questions that are regularly asked. One of the more common ones is whether resistance training with free weights is better than with machines. The quick answer is a resounding yes. Not only are the strength gains greater, but the functionality of movement with free weights add to an overall improved physique and performance level. Here is an overview of the differences of both.
Free Weights
Pros- Strength gains tend to be greater. Free weights require more balance and coordination. They recruit more muscle groups than resistance machines, which tend to only isolate specific muscles. Joint stabilization is emphasized more with free weight activity.
Cons- A spotter is needed. Machines tend to have less risk of injury.
Machines and resistance bands
Pros- Machines can be safer for beginners when they do not know the proper way to do the free weights. They are good for rehabilitating athletes because they provide a more smooth and controlled movement.
Cons- Machines usually provide slower strength gains than free weights.
*An ideal training program may integrate alternating days of machines and free weight training. A combination of both styles can ensure that the proper amount of strength gains and joint stability are maximized.
There are three categories of exercise equipment…
-Constant resistance
-accommodative resistance
-Variable resistance
Many in the fitness industry use the term “constant resistance” when referring to free weight training. As we push or pull, the muscles are changing length, the relationship of the resistance to the axis of motion is changing and of course acceleration, inertia, momentum. (free weights, resistance cables, machines with a weight stack attached to a cable.)
Accommodating resistance is designed to exert force through a speed-controlled range of motion. Iso-kinetic resistance equipment is accommodating. Some Saint Louis Personal Trainer might argue that aquatics, hydraulics and pneumatics are undefined because they fall into both accommodating and variable resistance categories. (leg press.)
Variable resistance is meant to have varying loads throughout the range of motion for the particular exercise. Most of the equipment we use in the gym falls under this category. (bicep curl, triceps press, leg abduction and leg adduction.)
In summary, free weights provide much more complete overall health and fitness benefits than machines. With this said, there still is a place for machines. Beginners and those in rehabilitation can benefit immensely from using machines. They may be in a situation where free weights would not be recommended.
