free weights VS machines

[dirtwarrior]

TweetEver since my back surgery I had in Feb 2013. I have been using only machines in my training in the gym. Today most of the machines were being used so I used free weights to train with. OMG the difference is amazing, I forgot how good it feels. Of course you have to tighten the core and stabilizer muscles are used along with the group being exercised. I feel like I finally got a real work out.
I hope I haven't wasted 2+ years in the gym.

[LittleTom]

TweetI use a combination of both depending on my goals. I can almost always machine more then I can free weight so that tells you something. I agree it's a totally different workout but trust me, both are effective. There are some machine exercises I love that free weights just can't replicate. Now if you getting into isolation and individual muscles, well that's a different story. I don't think you've wasted any time but you have made your muscles do something new, and that's always good.

[animal87]

TweetI love free weights. The only reason i use machines is due to some injuries, I cant use free weights for some exercises.

[dirtwarrior]

TweetI can't do squats that is for sure. It puts to much pressure on my lower back. I do leg presses instead. Everything else I am going back to free weights.

[ZOOT]

TweetSame here...machines for areas that are prone to injury, free weights for others...a good mix. As long as your pushin weight, its all good

[BABY1]

TweetDue to multiple surgeries and age, Fuzo has modified and uses many more machines than he used to. He is def doing something right

[horse]

Tweetshoulders are screwed so i do my military press on a machine arms don't rotate back far enough to do squats so legs are all machine, other than that i pretty much old school it barbells and dumb bells

[guns01]

Tweeti use both. i feel like both have their place in training but overly relying on machines early on can def hinder progress as you move along. working around injuries and using for accessory work are one thing but using them because you are lazy is a whole other animal

[dirtwarrior]

Tweet

Due to multiple surgeries and age, Fuzo has modified and uses many more machines than he used to. He is def doing something right

I saw both of you guys picture and you all look amazing

[BABY1]

Tweet

I saw both of you guys picture and you all look amazing

thank you so much dw!

[Torres]

TweetI like to use both !!!
Although free weights are my favorite, for a different swing on whatever body part I train ATM , I like to use machines . They seem to work my muscles different and I like to keep my body guessing !!

[Skeletor]

TweetYes...everything has its use in training...that's for sure. I love using everything I can when I can. I usually start with dumbbells and end with machines.

[Dzone]

TweetRight now I am 100% free weights cuz working out at home, but even in the gym Im about 80% on free. Lots of dumbells at home and I do dips and pullups all the time