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2005/04/20, 01:58 PM
I usually lift with both free weights and machines. I'm pretty new to lifting, since I've only been doing it for about six months or so. Pretty much everything I've learned is from the posters on this site, and I've noticed alot of changes in myself, so thanks everyone.
My question is this, and I've tried to look for it and haven't found anything: On the bench press machine at my gym (and I can look at the model if anyone needs that info, if it matters), I can easily do 300 lbs, but with the free weights, I struggle with 225, and sometimes even 200. I know free weights force you to stablize the bar and machines don't, but to me, it still seems ridiculous that I can bench 100 more pounds on the machine than with free weights. It leads me to believe that one of three things are up (or a combination of things)...1.) I have poor technique when it comes to the free weights, 2.) The bench press machine doesn't really give 300 pounds of resistance, and 3.) I need to work on my stabilizer muscles or something like that. Since I don't know much about this stuff, maybe someone can shed some light on my problem. Thanks in advance. :)
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2005/04/20, 05:33 PM
Your own answer #2 is the right one. The machine is pperfectly set to counter balance the weights and make it easier. 300lbs is just a guide, but don't let it discourage you.
Same being said for the Seated Machine Press (Shoulders). One can train with 100lbs on the machine but doing a free weight seated db press, the person may only be able to get 50lbs up.
Again, the machines help us with form and balance.
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Scales are for dead weight: We are not dead yet!
Still trying to find out how to do the Hollywood Free Press.
Ivan
Montreal Canada
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2005/04/20, 05:57 PM
Balance is a huge part of free weights...it makes a big difference...
another issue could be leverage...you may be able to leverage your body in a way that allows you to lift more....
But technique could also be a possibility...you need to have someone knowledge watch you lift and examine your technique...especially when you go heavy...people tend to cheat and mess up on form as the weight increases....
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2005/04/20, 05:59 PM
leverage on the machine*
knowledgeable*
at first you may lift more in free weights by cheating but in the long run you sacrifice constistant gains*
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2005/04/21, 06:43 AM
Most machines use a pully system to lift the weights.
Pully systems were first invented to make lifting all weight easier.
Try lifting your fridge by yourself, then put it into a pully system and you cauld probably move the same weight with 1 hand.
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2005/04/21, 08:17 AM
Okay, thanks guys!
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