Arnold Schwarzenegger answered whether there is an advantage to free weights or machines.
There are many age-old questions within the fitness and weightlifting world. This ranges from work in the gym to diet plans outside. Arnold Schwarzenegger has been sharing his thoughts and opinions on different subjects for years now. In a recent edition of Arnold’s Pump Club, the seven-time Mr. Olympia champion bodybuilder and legend broke down whether free weights or machines have a great benefit.
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Arnold reached the pinnacle of bodybuilding many times during the prime of his career. He is a seven-time Mr. Olympia champion and built one of the best physiques of all-time. His work ethic in the gym was unmatched and he is now sharing his methods that helped jumpstart his career.
“Is it better to each for free weights or stick with machines? A recent review and meta-analysis compared the effects of these two popular training methods on strength, muscle, growth, and jump performance.”
Schwarzenegger shared research that compared the impact that both free weights and machines have in the gym.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Talks Free Weights vs. Machines
Arnold Schwarzenegger began his explanation by stating the research found that both were equal.
“The researchers found that machines and dumbbells were equally effective at building muscle and strength.”
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The research found that you will build strength using whatever you train with. Arnold explained that your progress is “specific to the type of exercise you do more often.”
“People who train with free weights do a better job of increasing strength on free weight exercises, while those who train with machines are better as seeing machine improvements.”
The one exception came in jump performance. When attempting to build progress here, it is better to use free weights.
“Your body responds to resistance whether from dumbbells, machines, barbells, resistance bands, kettlebells, or even your body weight. As you get stronger, it’s essential to keep challenging your muscles in new ways, either by adding weight, reps, or sets.”
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