The Re-Rise of the Machines

Fitness industry trends tend to change.

A certain workout program or method will be the latest craze. A new exercise method is introduced (or an old one is rediscovery). The old method is called dumb, out-of-date, and ineffective. Meanwhile, the new one is heralded as the One True Way of exercising.

Cardio was a popular exercise in the 80s and 90s. Slow jogging became popular in the 80s and 1990s. In the 2000s, the high-intensity interval training was the new kid on the block. In the last couple of years people have been bashing HIIT and promoting mellow Zone 2 Cardio as the better way.

Weightlifting is also a good example of the in-then out phenomenon.

Free weights were the most popular form of resistance exercise in the 19th century and the 20th century. In the 1970s, the Nautilus machine was introduced and quickly became the most popular, high-tech way to build muscles.

Then, things went backwards again.

CrossFit, Starting Strength and others were lauding the benefits of barbells a decade ago. Weight-training machines, which were once considered dumb and useless, became popular again. Weight machines were portrayed as being artificial and domesticated, contrary to how man is designed to move. Weight machines were seen as only for weenies who couldn't lift free weights, or bros who cared more about looks than strength.

It was a great thing for the fitness industry to refocus on barbells. This opened up new possibilities for people on their fitness journey. It went too far, however, in eliminating the option of using machines. Things are beginning to change again. Machines will soon be back on the strength training menu.

The Re-Rise of the Machines

The truth is often found between the extremes. The debate between machines and barbells is a perfect example of this. There is no absolute good or bad. Both have their pros and cons. There are good reasons to use either (or both!) ).

I am not the only one who is embracing this idea.

Years ago, I was a total barbell fanatic and embraced it with the fervor of a convert.

I stopped using weight-machines and concentrated my training on big barbell exercises like the squat and deadlift.

I always told people that barbell training was the best exercise to do when they asked what kind of exercise you should do. There's no doubt about it.

When someone wanted to use machines, i would tell them that barbells are a better option.

Barbell training became my favorite pastime. It gave me a great deal of satisfaction.

In the last few years, my opinions and beliefs about weight machines and barbell training have changed.

Due to several factors, as I mentioned previously, I have shifted from barbell training to hypertrophy-style bodybuilder programs. I want to be jacked. Like Mike Mentzer. Or Arnold. As a father in his 40s who doesn't use TRT or steroids.

To achieve this goal, I have been working with weight machines.

Guess what? Mark Rippetoe may be upset, but I have learned that machines are a great way to build muscle and get stronger.

Weight machines have many benefits. I will explain why they are useful in a strength training program.

Yes, You Can Get Strong Using Machines

Barbell advocates often claim that barbells are more effective than machines for building strength.

What is the conclusion of the research?

Free weights and machines both increase strength and muscle mass equally, according to studies.

Some free-weight advocates might concede this conclusion but argue that compound exercises with multiple joints are still better.