Strength training develops strength, increases bone density, builds resistance, promotes weight loss, increases the body’s resistance to injury, and improves overall athletic performance. Various exercises are involved in working different muscle groups of the body to build maximum strength and endurance. Strength training machines play an important role in enabling enthusiasts to perform various exercises associated with it for maximum gains. Equipment is considered to be the backbone of any training regime. It helps enhance the overall output of various strength exercises and increases the intensity of the workouts. Besides that, if you are a beginner you should be checking out this list of 7 foods that kill testosterone before you start with your workouts.
If you have made up your mind to invest in a home gym, it is essential for you to consider the various machines and fitness equipment available in the market to perform efficient workouts.
Types of Strength Training Machines:
Machines enable enthusiasts to perform a variety of exercises. Some machines are designed to work individual muscles while others comprise a multi-dimensional station that works the whole body. Multi-station machines are great for home gyms, are more economical, and take up less space. They help individuals train different muscle groups and enable them to achieve optimal benefits from their training regime. Both free weights and machines are required for developing strength and working the core muscles but machines are safer than free weights and are easier to use. The various machines used for strength training are:
Leg Press Machine
The leg press is the best machine for training the muscles of the legs. Most of them are set at an angle of 45 degrees and work the muscles of the thighs. With a leg press, you can safely lift heavy weights without slipping or falling. It places less stress on the lower back and knees.
Hack Squat Machine
It is great for developing the outer sweep of the thighs.
The Smith Machine
This machine is a barbell that is restricted to move only vertically upwards and downwards. It comprises two weight stacks separated by a distance of 2.5 meters with cables passing through adjustable pulleys and can be fixed to adjustable handles.
Free weights
They are essential for performing high-intensity workouts for strength training and comprise the most elementary form of exercise equipment. They are not attached to any chains or pulleys and consist of barbells, dumbbells, bars, and weight plates.
Barbells
It is a long iron bar measuring between 4 to 7 feet in length. Exercises of the barbell are performed by holding it with both hands and lifting it against the gravitational force. You can select from Olympic barbells and standard barbells as per your requirements.
Dumbbells
They are a smaller version of barbells and are 5 to 10 inches long. Dumbbell exercises are performed by carrying them in each hand. Dumbbell rack assortments are also available which have dumbbells weighing from 5 lbs to 100 lbs.
Weight Plates
They range from 2.5 lbs. to 100 lbs. They are usually made of iron but plastic weight plates are also available in the market. They are attached to barbells while performing exercises.
EZ curl bar
This targets the biceps and triceps. It is shorter than a barbell with angled hand placements and is great for working the muscles from different angles. It reduces stress and helps enhance the strength of the wrist.
Strength training machines and equipment are great for boosting the workout sessions and increasing the intensity of workouts. But it is essential for you to perform all strength training exercises under the guidance and supervision of a certified trainer in order to avail maximum benefits. These exercises require the application of specific techniques in the absence of which you might end up with a broken bone or muscle injury.
Before beginning any exercise you must consult a registered medical practitioner in order to determine if your body is capable of handling the stress involved in performing hardcore strength exercises or not. You must also discuss any ailments your might be suffering from such as digestive disorders, asthma, heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, etc. with your doctor prior to beginning these exercises.
