What is the Best Exercise Equipment? A Comparison of: Selectorized Exercise Machines Vs. Plate Loaded Home Gyms Vs. Free Weights Part II

Free Weights

A pair of dumbbells (adjustable if you’re low on space), or barbells that is not dependent on a machine/pulley system for support.

Advantages

-Compared to a machine, for the same exercises you’ll work more muscles (stabilizing muscles)

-Quickest way to gain strength

-You’ll need a spotter for some exercise, however the benefit of having a spotter they can provide added motivation

-It doesn’t matter if you’re short or tall, anybody can use free weights
You can perform a variety of exercises with a pair of dumbbells and a barbell

Disadvantages

-You’ll need a spotter for some exercises, so you may not be able to work out alone safely

-There’s a greater risk of injury because there’s nothing to support you if a weight come falling down on you

-There’s a higher learning curve-it will take time to learn the proper form of each exercise

-It’s easy to “cheat” with bad form, which increases the risk of injury

Who is this for? Anybody can use free weights, but if you’re a beginner, be sure to get the assistant of a friend/family member or personal trainer to show you how to lift properly.

Summary

As you can see, there are many advantages and disadvantages of selectorized exercise machines, plate loaded home gyms and free weights. There is no real best exercise equipment.

The important point is that whatever you use, use it properly and frequently and enjoy exercising at home!

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