Lifting heavy??

aliie38

I was wondering if this method only applies to free weight lifting or does it include using the machines as well? I want to start lifting heavy but the use of free weights intimidates me..

Firefox7275

You can do intense workouts on machines but you won't get the best results. Machines are mainly seated so you are not working the postural muscles (abs and back) half as much, and the machine stabilises the weight so you are not using the small stabilising muscles around the joints. The less muscle you work the less the growth hormone release and the less overall fit you are. Being able to lift a stabilised weight in a seated position does not mean you are strong lifting an unstabilised weight in a standing position, people injure themselves trying to move heavy furniture say.

Do you have BodyPump classes at your gym or can you use a trainer for a few sessions? Fear is not a reason not to do something as straightforward as weights, it is a reason to learn a new skill. If you never did anything you find scary or intimidating you'd have a boring life, and many women who do free weights gets the most amazing confidence boost and mental rush as they master it! Machines only is pretty boring and limiting unless you have good cable columns and the skills to use them. They absolutely have their uses, for example drop sets, but you can't really start out with that, it's an advanced technique.

bdamaster60

if the concentric is difficult as well as the eccentric, to lift. then it's heavy. Doesn't matter what exercise it is.

kellyscomeback

Pick up the book The New Rules of Lifting for Women (or The New Rules of Lifting if you are male) and you won't be as intimidated.