Free Weights Vs Machines

 Hello readers! I don't know about you, but I have a case of Weiber Fever!

   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxjCrfZUyDY

  I'm coming at you from my post at the country club today. I've already trained a few of my radtastic clients and now I have a few hours to kill before I have to give a massage. I have to say, I have muscle envy for my upcoming client! I have a knot in my shoulder blade that is SO mad at me today.
   Today's workout plan is my favorite. I have yoga at 5:30, a big walk for an hour and then Zumba! I am obsessed with Zumba. If you love to dance, you need to try it out. Even if you don't, I guarantee you'll have a great time trying!


  So a lot of times I am asked, "Nicole, which is better: free weights or machines?"
  First of all, every single person on this planet is different. What works for some simply won't work for others.

  When you work with a machine, you can add more weight than you would with a free weight because the machine is holding it up for you. In other words, you don't have to rely on your stability and core to maintain the right form. Can you still have bad form on a machine? Totally. But it's less likely you'll fall over. They are also less intimidating. When I'm working at the gym, I tend to see more people gravitate toward the machines than the free weights because it's less of a risk. No one will look at you and wonder what you're doing if you're doing what it says to do on the machine's diagram. My advice to you is to go at a moderately slow pace. Use your breath to your advantage: when you're working the muscle, breathe out and tighten your core. As you bring the weight back to the starting position, fill those lungs with air!

  Free weights can be a bit trickier because they require more stability.  Using free weights adds the challenge of balance. Free weight exercises while keeping your core engaged will improve your core strength while working whichever muscle you're focusing on. Another benefit of working with a free weight is that you can incorporate more natural movements. Do you have trouble lifting a heavy pitcher of lemonade in your home? Simulating that motion with a dumbbell can help you strengthen up for your daily activities. It really isn't too hard to learn to use a free weight. They may seem scary and you may fear people judging you...but ya know what? No one is worrying about what you're doing in the gym. Watch a YouTube tutorial. Make notes. Bring them to the gym. Or hire a trainer OR simply ask a trainer for help! Any trainer who is hoping to score your business will have no problem giving you a few pointers. Besides, a lot of gyms offer comp sessions.

  So to conclude, do what feels right for you. Push yourself. Work is work whether you do it on a machine or with free weights. If you keep up with resistance training and cardio, as well as watching your diet, you WILL see changes in your body.