Machines vs. free weights

[redsquirrel]

I want to get everyone's opinions....

For a "non mass" building type of workout, what do you all find is better? Machine exercises, or free weights? Now, I've always been a believer in free weights...Mainly because you obviously use more stabilizer muscles to do each rep. But, let's say you're not looking to build mass. And instead, you're looking to actually change the shape of the muscle. In this case I mean sort of elongate it. As a female, I'm shooting for a not so bulky look...Would using machines instead of free weights actually assist in reaching this goal?

[Bouncer]

I don't think you should use 1 or the other exclusively. I incorporate a mix of both into my routine. Depends on what kind of machines you are talking about. For example, certain hammer strength machines are a staple in my chest routine. The wide grip press machine hits my chest in a way that I cannot with free weight. The squeeze and stretch I get from that machine is great.

[trip]

imho, it doesn't matter much, if you really really focus on the mind muscle connections and use proper form, that is what counts

[coffee-guy]

Changing the shape of the muscle just isn't gonna happen - you can tear it down or build it up but you can't elongate etc???

[beefcake]

I think machines are good for hitting a muscle from certain angles or getting contractions that just aren't possible with free weights. Personally I don't think you can really grow as well on machines as you can free weights. I could be wrong, but hey, how many people do you know that got yoked out on a bowflex. Nuff sed.

[Stonecold54]

properly built machines are far superior to free weights...straight line gravity based resistance is very ineffiecient. now bear in mind I said properly built machines...namely- hammer strenght, naultilus, medX, and probably a select few more. shitty built or bad copies of good machines will give you about free weight results...that is why most people say there is no difference. growth is about stimulating the muscle worked...you muscle does not know where the resistance comes from...it only knows intensity, frequency and volume. but sadly most gyms put cheap shit in the gym so it doesnt matter what you use in the end...just make sure you use slow movements...good form and good intensity.

[FitnessBrat]

I agree with mixing. My gym has tons of machines and some of them are really cool, but some things just can't compare to free weights. (Like the side lateral shoulder machines :thumbsdow )

[Bouncer]

properly built machines are far superior to free weights

i didn't read the rest of your post but this statement alone is just not right. NOTHING is better then basics. machines have their place and can help a great deal. BUT, without free weights at the core of a workout you wont get far.

so how is the once every 2 week training program going for ya bro? i bet those machines you use in your once every 2 week program is really tearing down those muscle fibers! :P

[coffee-guy]

You're right to an extent B but SC's mention of "straight-line gravity" limitations couldn't be better stated - think about the physics of it and you'll see why hammer strength machines and the like can actually be just as good if not better (excluding the "basics" like squats/deads etc but most of those only apply to people looking to be "big" and not just in shape etc)...

[Stonecold54]

i didn't read the rest of your post but this statement alone is just not right.

so read the rest of it lazy, lol...my word "PROPERLY" qualifies my statment. so if riding a bike to work was basic and someone offered you a car instead you would say...naw...basic is best...my bike gets me to where I need to go...what do I need a car for?

[FitnessBrat]

so read the rest of it lazy, lol...my word "PROPERLY" qualifies my statment. so if riding a bike to work was basic and someone offered you a car instead you would say...naw...basic is best...my bike gets me to where I need to go...what do I need a car for?

:drunk:

[Bouncer]

so read the rest of it lazy, lol...my word "PROPERLY" qualifies my statment. so if riding a bike to work was basic and someone offered you a car instead you would say...naw...basic is best...my bike gets me to where I need to go...what do I need a car for?

in the gym, the basics are best. no 2 ways about it. like i said though, machines play an important roll.

[redneck99]

I try to incorporate both too!