What is the difference between Machines and Dumbells??!
Question: Was just wondering, i have been going to the gym for 2 months now, and have used machine weights only. I was wondering weather it is more benficial to use Machines as opposed to dumbells, in terms of mass and toning. I am quite thin, being 17, and i am hoping to increase muscle mass but also want to be toned. Machines or Dumbells??
Answers: Was just wondering, i have been going to the gym for 2 months now, and have used machine weights only. I was wondering weather it is more benficial to use Machines as opposed to dumbells, in terms of mass and toning. I am quite thin, being 17, and i am hoping to increase muscle mass but also want to be toned. Machines or Dumbells??
Dumbells are a lot harder than machines only because the machine will help you stay on the direct line of the movement. I mean your body (arm, shoulder,...) will not try to compensate (with your stabilizer).
I've been working out for a year now (3-4 days/week 1.5 hours each time) and i begain mostly on machines. You'll put more weight thus gaining great mass. Do some free weights too to work your stabilizers. You will see a gain in strength and then go lift more dumbells and it will be easier.
It's really harder to start off with the dumbells.
Anyways that's what i did and i'm pretty satisfied with the results.
for mass use free weights! barbells and dumbells
toning use machines.
you really cant make both tone and mass at the same time, you need to start with the mass building, then switch to toning.
also do low reps, heavy weight for mass building. with explosive pumps
and do high reps, lower weight for tone. doing slower more concentrated pumps.
The machines control how you move the weight and exercise specific muscles. The free weight mainly exercise the muscle you want but also all the supporting muscles that keep the weight moving in the right arc (which is done by the machine otherwise), so free weights work more muscles. However becasue the movement isnt controlled free weights can cause more injuries.
As for bulking up and toning, you cant do them both at once. Bulk up - few repetititions of heavy weighs, and done quickly on each one, toning - lots of repetitions of lighter weights and done slowly. Both can be done on free weights and machines
Use both matey, keeping your muscles guessing really helps.
Make sure you do 3 sets of 4-6 reps with the heaviest possible.
Oh and eat every 2 hours.