The experts are always debating over the best way to do just about everything. So how are you supposed to know which method is most effective. If the experts cannot come to a definitive conclusion, how are you supposed to figure it out? The best rule of thumb seems to be trial and error. Truth be told, every person has a unique body make up that effects the way diet and exercise impacts each individual’s body. There isn’t one formula of diet and exercise that will work for everyone.
There is one popular debate that just may have a correct answer based on clear, rational conclusions. The debate over whether free weights or machines are better does; however, seem to have a clear winner. People that use weights regularly want to be sure they are achieving optimal results for all their efforts. And the evidence supports the conclusion that free weights are better than machines. Now you are probably wondering why free weights are better than machines, right.
There are several strong arguments that favor the superior effectiveness of free weights over weight machines. One argument is that the machines do not target as many muscles as the free weights when performing specific exercises. Many of the machines isolate only one specific muscle or muscle group while performing the exercise. Free weights generally target more muscle groups at once, making the exercise work more muscles at once.
You also have to pay closer attention to your form while using free weights. The weight machines are structured so that you can usually only perform the weight in a specific manner. This allows your mind to wander while exercising. You may not work your muscles as hard if your head isn’t in what you are doing. You may also stop the movement short of where you should. Instead of fully extending and retracting the muscles during the movement, most people will cheat themselves and stop short because their mind is elsewhere.
Free weights require you to balance the weights properly throughout the repetition; which is why you work more muscles. You have to keep your mind on your form and balance throughout the repetition so there is little opportunity to cheat yourself. Keeping your mind on the movement also keeps you from being injured. The less your mind wanders the more energy