"rmr" wrote in message
...
Interestingly there is some controversy about using machines versus
free weights - smith machines in particular. Machines are easy to
adjust and easy to use, but they force you to lift a certain way,
which may not be entirely natural/right for you.
Free weights are more time consuming to adjust, and you have to spend
time getting your form right, but then you lift as nature intended,
and have to exercise lots of additional muscles to keep stability.

http://www.exrx.net/Beginning.html


The only people I've met who scoff the machines are ones who either don't
know how to use them properly or feel like it makes them "cool" to do so.

There are some benefits to using machines that you don't get from free
weights. A good, balanced exercise program will usually contain a bit of
each but a person needs to use what they have. Machines are good for muscle
isolation and for using power to build strength. Taking the stabilizing
activity out of lifting leaves nothing left but power which is why a person
can usually leg press a much higher % of bodyweight than a squat.

Machines are problems for some when they aren't used properly and like any
other activity not done right will lead to injury.
--
the volleyballchick