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Squats Machine Vs. Free Weights

ambruton Posts: 4 Joined: 2003/06/26	2003/08/11, 05:51 AM I'm thinking of replacing my regular free weight squats with the machine squats, will I still see the same benefits? Will I be missing out on much? My concern is that I don't have a spot. A.
rockandorroll Posts: 65 Joined: 2003/05/22	2003/08/11, 07:46 AM I assume when you say free weight squat you mean barbell. The machine squat will work your quads, but for a total leg workout that will affect you're whole body stick with the regular squats. If you are doing squats you must have access to a squat rack, so use the safety bars, if you can't get it up, lower it on to the bars, or ask for a spot, most people will help you. Hope this helps.
richardjst Posts: 410 Joined: 2002/07/13	2003/08/11, 10:34 AM The benefits will not be the same because you won't be using stabilizing muscles to balance the weight, so not as big increase in strength and mass gain.....although machines do have their upsides too, isolation and safety. I would stick to free weights unless you have a prior injury. -------------- If hard work and persistence were the keys to success, most people would opt to pick the lock.~Dick
ambruton Posts: 4 Joined: 2003/06/26	2003/08/11, 02:22 PM Thank you! A.