It seems that everyone has an opinion on this debate. Which is better, free weights or machines? I asked my coaching friends what they thought and they told me it was split down the middle. One group loved free weights and the other loved machines.

Those who are just beginning to strength train, those who are rehabbing a body part, those who want to isolate a particular muscle, and those who want to lift large amounts of weight would be better off selecting a machine. It is safer for your circumstances.

Here’s why, free weights require users to have a foundation of strength, balance, and coordination. Machines provide you with that balance. Using a machine, the strength trainer can lift a weight relatively safely. The exercise is guided along a pre-established path that does not allow for unsafe movements. With free weights you are left to your own devices. Your exercise route is whatever feels best for you.

If you’re setting up your own home gym, I’d go with a set of dumbbells. They are less expensive and take up less space. Less is good. Buying an all-in-one machine may be what interests you the most and that’s fine. Just make sure all cable lines are made of strong, high-quality material. Otherwise they will wear out over time.

If you want variety in your exercise program, try free weights. You can do pretty much any exercise you want. You can also add fun side kicks, like a stability ball or balance board. With machines, you are limited to the one exercise they were designed for.

In the end the decision is yours. I think everyone has their own opinion on which one is better because we all have different goals and tastes. Go with what you enjoy and prefer. Just be sure to keep your routine fresh and fun.

Copyright 2005 women-strength-training.com