Free Weights Vs. Machines

jamszy

I'm trying the "home workout" routine with my trusty elliptical and treadmill, but I'm missing the muscle building exercises the weight machines at the gym provided. Is it possible to achieve the same results with free weights and an adjustable bench?

BlueBombers

Damn straight, free weights are the way to go IMO.

Compound lifts give you more bang for your buck as compared to isolated lifts.

Edited to add more.

martinel2099

I am starting to prefer free weights much more. I like the strong lifts program which needs a Squat Rack, bench press and and a Bar, but many of the exercises can be achieved with free weights. I'm sure there are plenty of people here with more experience with at home free weight programs. Good luck+++

rachelrb85

Free weights > Weight machines

DavPul

Yes. You'll do just fine without access to machines

johnrossmckay

Sure.

Try "compound lifts" that use lots of muscles together. Weights are not that expensive.

If anything, it is better than using machines because it is more like real life.

Stuff like http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showthread.php?t=118920551

Julieboolieaz

What they said! Free weights are the way to go! At home it'll be an initial investment...but the return on that investment will be worth it!

nerdymathgrrl

I work out at home. I have a set of adjustable dumbbells (I have no room for a barbell or squat rack), and as I get stronger I order heavier plates for them. You can do a lot of compound exercises with dumbbells and get a great workout! I use the site exrx.net, and I look for the exercises that use dumbbells or just bodyweight. It will tell you what muscles are worked, and there is a video for each exercise demonstrating proper form.

MityMax96

Free Weights FTW

Just my humble opinion

No_Finish_Line

yes, same to better