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Should You Use Free Weights or a Smith Machine?

December 19, 2023 3 min read

Should You Use Free Weights or a Smith Machine?

How To Choose Between Free Weights and Smith Machines

When it comes to building strength and muscle, the choices can seem overwhelming. Should you go for free weights or a Smith machine? The answer to this question depends on your fitness goals and what kind of training you are looking for.

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Free weights have been around for centuries, and for good reason. They are incredibly versatile, allowing you to perform many exercises with different angles, grips, and levels of resistance. This variety makes them ideal for building muscle, increasing strength, and improving overall physical performance. On top of that, because they are completely un-fixed, they support functional movements which helps train your body with more realistic movements, while providing a great workout.

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Benefits Of Free Weights

One of the major benefits of using free weights is that they allow you to work with the full range of motion. This means you can use a greater range of movement when performing exercises such as squats, deadlifts, and presses. This is especially helpful for those who are just starting out, as it gives them an opportunity to learn proper form and technique without the risk of injury. Additionally, free weights offer an increased level of stability, which helps to build strength and improve balance.

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Another benefit of free weights is that they can be used by a variety of people. From beginners to experts, free weights provide a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels of ability. Furthermore, because of their versatility, you can tailor your workouts to target specific muscles or areas of the body. This is something that you cannot do with machines, which can only be used to perform certain exercises.

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Lastly, free weights are generally cheaper than machines. This makes them a great option for those on a budget, as they don’t require you to break the bank in order to get a good workout.

Benefits Of Smith Machines

Smith machines, on the other hand, are pieces of equipment that can help increase safety and consistency when lifting weights. Because they are fixed, they provide a stable base for each exercise, allowing you to focus on form and technique without having to worry about balance and control. This makes them ideal for those who are new to weightlifting and want to learn proper form.

Additionally, Smith machines can help prevent injury due to the fact that they offer a controlled environment. This allows you to lift heavier weights without putting yourself at risk of injury due to incorrect form or technique. Furthermore, the barbells on the Smith machine are adjustable, so you can adjust the weight according to your needs. This makes it much easier to track and monitor your progress, as you can easily increase or decrease the weight depending on your goals.

Finally, Smith machines offer a wide range of exercises. From chest presses to leg presses, there is no shortage of ways to work out with a Smith machine. This makes them a great option for those who want to switch up their routine without having to buy multiple pieces of equipment.

Which Is Best?

Ultimately, the decision between free weights and Smith machines depends on your individual needs and goals. If you’re a beginner, then Smith machines are a great option as they provide a safe and controlled environment to learn proper form. However, if you’re an experienced lifter, then free weights may be the better option as they allow you to work with the full range of motion and tailor your workouts to target specific muscles or areas of the body.

Whichever you choose, it’s important to remember that both free weights and Smith machines have their advantages and disadvantages. It’s up to you to decide which one is right for you based on your individual needs and goals.