Free weights vs machines

AnnaMC1977
AnnaMC1977 Posts: 241
edited January 2 in Fitness and Exercise
Which is better? Using the free weight machines or the regualr machines? Which works best? Which burns more calories, Which is more effective?

Replies

  • Chief_Rocka
    Chief_Rocka Posts: 4,710 Member
    Free weights generally speaking, but it depends.

    You may want to consider talking to a personal trainer.
  • SportyLadyPhotographer
    SportyLadyPhotographer Posts: 173
    Id say free weights, because it works more your body harder as you have to stabilise your self as you pump the iron.
  • Capt_Apollo
    Capt_Apollo Posts: 9,026 Member
    free weights tend to work more muscles.

    i've seen people use the machines wrong. a good rule of thumb is that with many of the upper body machines, you want your feet firmly flat on the ground.

    like rock said, if you have some cash, get a few personal trainer sessions. make sure to ask how to properly do things like dead lifts and squats. in fact, insist on a trainer that is good at these.
  • super_monty
    super_monty Posts: 419 Member
    Free weights are better and more efficient.

    You can get similar results with machines but it takes more effort, you have to do more exercises because less muscles(mainly supporting) are being used especially within your core.

    My gym only has machines and cables equipment and extra exercises have to be included to work supporting muscles add to my workout time.

    e.g. when doing a heavy squat lots muscles are used, yet with machines you would have to do about 3 exercises.

    Machines can be better for people at risk of injury though. But If you have a choice go with free weights every time.
  • rubysphoto
    rubysphoto Posts: 254 Member
    Free weights generally speaking, but it depends.

    You may want to consider talking to a personal trainer.

    ^^^This^^^
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