Free Motion vs. Free Weights

Sporks42
Sporks42 Posts: 44 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I apologize because I know these questions have been asked and answered, but all the search brings up is the weight machines vs free weights (the answer to which I know).

I just started lifting two weeks ago at the gym. Usually I have no problem getting the equipment I need unless I have to go at peak hours. Last time there was a line a mile long for the squat rack, leaving me to either get in line or improvise. Since I'm not a fan of waiting around, I ventured into the free motion machine section (The ones that use cables), I used these machines for my dead lifts, squats, step ups and rows, my question is how comparable are they? The squat machine was very awkward, so I kept my back off the seat and focused the weight on my shoulders, which left my legs feeling the same way the do when I use the squat rack. I did however, really like the step up machine, row and dead lifts, and I lifted the same as I would with the squat rack and free weights. I was wanting to incorporate these into my routine.

Also, the squat rack I use is the one that has the bar attached to a horizontal and vertical support, allowing it to move in all directions, I've read that I should use this for dead lifts also, which I do, but are any of the more seasoned weight lifters glaring daggers into my back for this?

Replies

  • Sycoholic
    Sycoholic Posts: 282 Member
    Nobody is glaring daggers... The machines are close but not the same as freeweights. What that means is if you're squatting 300 on the machine you may only squat 250 on the rack. I've used the FreeMotion machines and regularly do for my leg workouts. It's easier for me to workout with my wife using these machines as our differences are too great and the equipment too little to spend the time on.
  • vorgas
    vorgas Posts: 741 Member
    When you put a 7' olympic barbell with weights on the ends over your shoulders or whatever what happens? You have to balance that thing. This engages lots of stabilizer muscles, including your obliques and abs.

    When you crank up on a handle attached to a pulley, what happens? It goes up and down. No balance required. Not as efficient a workout. When you get in a squat machine what happens? It goes up and down. No side to side or forward and back balance required. Not as efficient a workout.

    Please note, I'm not claiming one is better than the other, just basic physics.

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