machine vs free weights

[trickster734]

How much of a difference is there in using a machine vs free weights, I mean is doing 170 on machine same as 170 on bench. Should be the same yet I read that it's not. Or am I just all messed up?

[meko13]

Try it and let us know if there is a difference... Be a leader, don't always follow what others have to tell you.

[MiloMan]

Keep in mind that this applies to vertical push lifts (i.e. bench press, military press, etc.) than vertical pull lifts (i.e. rows, shrugs, etc.)

Barbells are more difficult than machines, since you not only have to move the weight, you also have to stabilize it. Dumbbells are generally harder yet, for the same reason. Free weights almost always give faster gains, also for this reason, and they are harder for one arm to cheat with than are machines (and this is doubly true for dumbbells).

The question is how much difference. Try it and see!

[trickster734]

thanks for the info peeps, will do some experimenting