Any workout program you choose, any training style you choose, resistance training (weight lifting) is beneficial to you. There are two ways to accomplish resistance training, Machines vs. Free Weights. Machines are stationary, usually plate loaded or have a weight stack and pin system for choosing the amount of weight you wish to lift. “Free weights” is a broader term, and refers to things like dumbbells, barbells, kettle bells, body bars, and body weight resistance tools such as a BOSU, stability ball or TRX.
Which is better?
Well that depends. Both have a role in training, and it really depends on what you are looking to accomplish. Stationary machines are a wonderful tool for beginners, and they help to teach the body about postural awareness, what an exercise should feel like and where exactly you should be feeling it. Machines are also useful for intermediate and advanced lifters, as they work to isolate specific muscles or muscle groups. Machines may also facilitate the ability to lift more weight, as you are more stable and controlled. Stationary machines hold your posture, thus they take out the necessity to have an advanced body awareness, and it can be easy to forget to activate your core muscles. Because a weight machine keeps the body in a stable position, it usually only works the muscle in one plane of motion at a time.
Free weights generally require heightened body awareness, as proper posture and core activation will reduce the risk of injury. When beginning to lift with free weights, you can start by doing many of the exercises seated as opposed to standing which keep a greater amount of control. Seated vs standing free weight exercises also allows for heavier weights to be lifted safely. Moving to dynamic equipment such as a TRX suspension system, a greater awareness of proper posture and core activation is recommended. Free weights also train the body in more than one plane of motion at a time. The body moves dynamically, and free weight training is more functional in terms of movements in every day life.
There are definitive benefits and drawbacks to both – mix it up and try something new. Remember that if you need help with any of the topics discussed, spotting, or an idea for a different exercise, please ask us!