Machines v Free Weights

I would not say you should stay dedicated to one or the other. Both benefit you and it will always depend on what is it you are trying to work on.

I would consider myself right outside of novice here. I enjoy free weights, but I would never pass up the opportunity to use a machine when it becomes available. I use weights to tone my arms (and I use the weights on a balance ball so I can raise my stamina and sense of equilibrium. It is also a really easy way to work on your core).

Many machines do essentially the same things for you (and most of the time they come with directions), but that doesn't mean you can't get creative with them. The way I've learned is to watch more experienced people on these machines and on occasion, do not feel embarrassed to ask them: What areas are you working on with that motion? Any other techniques you have with this machine? I've never been scoffed at. Many people want to help and you are asking them questions they probably know a lot of answer to - the key is finding what works <for you> To say machines are to be totally avoided would be an extreme - How is that going to help you? There are so many good machines and they are obviously working for so many other people! With the machines you get adjust the weight of what you are doing just the same! Shoulder presses, arm pulls, chest presses, abdominal twist, hip abduction, hamstring,.... these are all good for you and if you have them, take advantage of them.

I don't know the answer, but my husband said something the other day that made sense. Free weights will also help you with balance, something you can't get with machines. I hope more people answer your question, cause I need the answer too.

what they all said....I find that free weights help me create even strength. With a machine I can sometimes notice myself cheating the weight with one side or the other.

I think there are probably more benefits to free weights, mainly the ability to do compound lifting and use stabilizing muscles. That said, I use mostly machines as of now. My knees are crap and squatting with only 15 pounds (kettlebell) did a number on them. I'm still trying to recover and that was a few weeks ago. So, other than some upper body work I do with dumbbells, I am all on machines. It takes a long time to get through my workout w/no compound exercises.