Group: Beginners to Exercise

Created: 2012/01/01, Members: 970, Messages: 18927

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Machines Vs Free weights

Z_man69
Z_man69
Posts: 2
Joined: 2002/02/25
Singapore
2002/02/27, 11:32 PM
Hi bodybuilders,
I've read everywhere that using free weights produce better results and develop a more complete physique. I am a beginner and have started the ft program last week. I do have a little bit of bodybuilding experience and have learned that it is important to lift heavy weights if not the heaviest. However, i've noticed that using free weights can be very unsteady..... machines provide better form and I do feel a lot more pumped when using machines.

I am really confused. Should I use free weights or machines or use my "body pump" to guide me decide???!?!?
Philia2
Philia2
Posts: 4,078
Joined: 2001/10/19
France
2002/02/28, 02:41 AM
The answer is to use both machines and free weights.
To develop muscle mass we need to stress and stimulate the muscle fibres in every possible way -changing exercises, execution, number of sets, reps etc

Never continue doing the same movement the same way for years or you'll never get the wanted results.

Good luck.


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- Nina :o) La vie est toujours aussi belle.....
rpacheco
rpacheco
Posts: 3,770
Joined: 2001/12/13
United States
2002/02/28, 10:17 AM
I agree with Nina. You should use both. Working with free weights is great because you use more of your stabilizer muscles. Working with machines allows you to put on more weights and focus on form.

The point is, however, to shock your muscles into growth. Therefore, you need the variety as your body adapts quickly to stress.

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**_Robert_**
Z_man69
Z_man69
Posts: 2
Joined: 2002/02/25
Singapore
2002/02/28, 10:53 AM
Thanx a lot. I feel relieved now.
MuscleRage
MuscleRage
Posts: 203
Joined: 2001/12/09
United States
2002/03/01, 05:11 PM
The reason why you are unsteady when you use free weights is because of ur lack in experiance. As you progress into your training you will find it easier and easier to keep the weight steady. Also free weights will help you to gain size, but machines will give you more definition, so its best to try to incorporate both types into your program.