Strength Training - machines vs free weights??

noor_v

What do you recommend? Does one give results faster?

Please advice!!!

AliceDark

Free weights are always better. They engage more muscles and allow you to adjust the plane of motion on your lifts if necessary. Machines aren't bad, but if you have the option, choose free weights instead.

Timshel_

What do you recommend? Does one give results faster?

Please advice!!!

Which ever you will do consistently will give you the best results. For anyone starting out I like to start them on machines because they generally demonstrate decent form and mechanics. They do tend to isolate muscle groups, but that is less of an issue for a beginner. But even a beginner can do free weights as well as long as they don't try to lift too heavy and focus on proper form.