Free Weight vs Machines

I have always incorporated the use of weights into my weekly workout routine. Over the years, I have swung from using only machines for my workout, to a mixture of machines and free weights, to only using free weights. As of two weeks ago, I added back to my typical routine of only using dumb bells, the utilization of a few of the machines.

I am not sure which approach is best, but I have heard two different viewpoints. With the use of machines, more control is applied to each movement and so it cuts down on the variation within each repetition. Coming from a different perspective, the use of free weights do not limit your range of motion and each exercise can be tailored to your individual body structure to get the most out of each rep.

As we get older, the importance of exercising our muscles and maintaining or increasing our strength becomes more important. If you are not currently including any weight lifting into your exercise routine, I would encourage you to try it. Start out with light weights, whether on a machine or using dumb bells, and build up slowly. You just might be surprised at how much you enjoy it!