Those few of the many that guys just miss.
They take them as non relevant and ignore them.
Or worse - they ask someone in the gym and he gives them that answer.
They stop asking questions then.
That is why I always advise not to listen to random people in the gym.
So let's see what are we talking about: Machines versus Free Weights When you go to the fitness club, there are all kinds of machines there.
Usually they take 70% of the space.
It is funny that to gain muscle you need the other 30% of the gym.
Machines isolate the exercise too much.
They keep it stable for you so you are using lesser muscles.
Machines are good for getting ripped at some part of the body.
Free weights on other hand require more muscles to control the exercise.
You must keep the weights stable with your own effort.
This are very good for muscle gain.
You involve more muscles that way.
Machines got another advantage - safety.
With machines you can't go much wrong on performing exercise.
With free weights if the technique is not clear - many things can go bad.
Isolated versus Compound Exercises Same principle goes here as well.
The more isolated are bicep curls, lateral raises etc.
They involve less muscles that you focus on.
This is good for shape and ripping.
Compound exercises include few supporting joints and muscles in the process.
Such exercises are the bench press, pull ups, dips, rows, deadlifts.
They are the better choice for muscle building.
Add as much compound exercises you can in your workout.
Keep in mind some of the little muscles can only be trained with isolated exercises.
Use proper technique When starting fitness or when trying other exercise always - always work on your form.
Start with lighter than you can handle and train the correct movements.
Sometimes you may include muscle or joint parts you haven't used that intense recently so go easy until you feel it.
The most important part is that you will ensure your safety this way and proper muscle development.
I remember a guy in my gym who had one part of his back bigger than the other.
When we saw how he made dead lifts we found he was doing it wrong.
It was pure luck he didn't injure his back.
So again, reduce the weight if you must.
Keep the exercise clear.
It is better to slow down a little rather than injuring yourself and stopping from training again soon.
Work for you as long term investment.
Don't allow the emotion to swing you around.
Approach with intelligence.