Integrating Free Weights with Machines

[pushup]

Hey,
I am new to this site and was looking for some advice. I have just started going to the gym again and was looking to get toned, I have been using the machines which I really like but I was thinking about doing some free weights. Do you think one works better than the other?
I love any advice.
Thanks!

[SarahPT&SN]

Free weights are superior to machines. Machines are not bad to get started with, but moving toward free weights is a good idea. I have a section in my e book written about the benefits of free weights over machines. In short, when you use free weights you utilize stabilizer muscles that you don't use with machines. Using only machines can actually lead to the development of a pattern overload and injury. When you make movements in real life, lifting things and whatnot, you have to use those stabilizer muscle. This is one reason why it's good to develop their strength.

Hope that makes sense and feel free to ask me more if it doesn't.

Sarah

[gymBum]

Originally Posted by pushup

Hey,
I am new to this site and was looking for some advice. I have just started going to the gym again and was looking to get toned, I have been using the machines which I really like but I was thinking about doing some free weights. Do you think one works better than the other?
I love any advice.
Thanks!

Free weights and machines are definitely both useful, especially when properly combined. In my opinion, free weights are a must, however, machines allow you to pack on some extra strength sometimes that you wouldn't be able to do with free weights. Because with free weights you must use your stabilizer muscles when doing most lifts, sometimes the weight that you can lift is brought down because of the stabilizers, but the machines let you take some of the work off your stabilizers.

So I would definitely recommend integrating the two and not just having one or the other.

John

[bronson]

I like free weights and cable work. But it's of my opinion that machines can be safer in certain lifts, when going heavy and not having a spotter. Even when you have a spotter and lifting heavy, there is always the chance of human error. And on the other hand, sometimes one can be too brave when using a machine. Regardless of the approach one takes, I feel it is important to use good judgement, and to be as safe as possible. Try not to be distracted, use proper form, zone in on the lift, and be it free weights or machines don't try to lift as much as Ronnie Coleman.

[Jonathan]

I would like to join a gym so that I can truly max on some of my lifts with a machine because I have no spotter.Im inbetween jobs right now (3rd interview Tues tho) and cant afford gym membership.Heres a pic of my home gym.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b1...ngchef/gym.jpg

[alb_tex]

I agree that free weights are superior to machines. However, I couldn't train to my fullest potential without: a lat pull down mahine, pec deck, cable pull downs or a leg press.


TEX