Are you intimidated by the number of gym equipment in a gym? You might have wondered, given the variety of equipment found in modern gyms, what the best machines for working out are.
This article will help you to understand the differences between gym machines and which one is best for you, based on your goals.
We will be discussing the top gym machines for beginners. This includes the muscles they target, where they can be found in the gym, as well as how you can incorporate them into your routine.
If you are confident using the equipment at the gym and understand the effects on your muscles, a career as a fitness professional could be the next step.
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What are Gym Machines?
This may seem like a simple question, but if you are just looking for the best gym machines to start with, it is crucial that you understand what a gym machine is and what it does.
You can use a variety of gym machines, including stationary bikes and treadmills. Leg presses and chest presses are also possible. These machines allow you to do a specific exercise without the need for weights.
Most gym machines, especially those that use weights, follow a predetermined range of motion. This means you can only set the machine's movement and not your own. Because they are in controlled environments, this makes them ideal for beginners who want to learn safe and efficient techniques.
It is still important to be safe while using the gym machines. You should always read the instructions on your equipment. These will be prominently displayed on either the front or side of the machine. The difference between injury or progress can be made by learning how to use gym machines properly.
If you're ever unsure about anything, whether that's adjusting a machine to better suit your individual needs, or changing the weight on a machine, ask a member of staff at your gym.This is part of their role - explore more in our complete exploration of the roles and responsibilities of a fitness instructor.
How do Gym Weight Machines Compare to Free Weights?
You might be wondering if the fixed-weight machines are too complicated. Gym exercise machines may be a better choice for beginners, those who aren't familiar with the gym or those recovering from injuries.
Free weights are great for strengthening your core and muscles. Although a gym weight machine doesn't have the same effect on your core, it can still be very beneficial.
The movement of a gym machine is restricted, which helps beginners and allows those recovering from injuries or illnesses to return to lifting without too much strain.
Adjustable gym machines make it easier for beginners to adjust the height and weight of their seats. This also allows you complete novices to familiarise themselves with key aspects of fitness, such as the correct gym etiquette, and what machine settings work best for them.
You will find instructions on the side or front of your gym weight machines. Follow these instructions to avoid injuries. What machines are best for progressing at the gym?
Best Gym Machines For Beginners
There are many options for gym equipment, from simple to more complex. These are the top gym machines for beginners. They range from cardio to weighted exercise machines.
#1 - Treadmill
Muscles Targeted: Hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, glutes.
You can run, walk, or do HIIT with this machine.
You can find it in the gym's cardio section, often along with other treadmills.
The treadmill is an excellent piece of equipment. It deserves its reputation for being one of the best in the gym. The treadmill is a great machine to do cardio and start your workout. Treadmills allow you to run inside and can be adjusted for speed, intensity, and incline to create the perfect workout.
A treadmill is one of the most effective gym machines for losing weight. Running is a high-intensity exercise that can burn a lot of calories. Running on a treadmill has a lower impact than running outdoors. A treadmill can tone your legs because it targets all major muscles.
Running on a treadmill is not the only option. You can do something intense that targets your glutes and calves by setting your treadmill on a steep incline, but at a slow speed, and then simply walk for a few minutes.
You can also design your own HIIT workouts. This will help you lose weight and improve your fitness.
#2 - Stationary Bike
Muscles Targeted: Glutes, hamstrings, calves, quads
You can do the following exercises with this machine: cycling, spin classes, and HIIT workouts
You can find it in the gym's cardio room/section. It is usually accompanied by other bikes.
A stationary bike is the best machine for weight loss. These bikes are great for toning your legs, glutes, and burning serious calories.
This machine is great for beginners. You simply need to get on and ride. Most modern exercise bikes will also have a display that automatically activates as you start cycling, meaning you can always track your data, even if you don't have your own wearable heart monitor.
You can use your stationary bike in many different ways than just to cycle on it. Spin classes are high-intensity classes that use a stationary bicycle to get you moving and burning calories. However, you can also do this without having to attend classes. You can target your leg muscles by cranking up the resistance to feel the heat in your glutes, calves and thighs.
You can also get pre-set workouts for your bike if you are looking to do a more intense workout. Stationary bikes can be a great choice for anyone looking to lose weight. They combine a great leg workout with a vigorous cardio workout
#3 - Rowing Machine
Muscles Targeted: Hamstrings, glutes, calves, quads, forearms, biceps, lats, spinal erectors
The following exercises can be performed using this machine: Rowing
You can find it in the Gym's cardio room/section. Usually, with other rowing machines.
The full-body workout that a rowing machine provides is undoubtedly one of the most effective resistance training tools. A successful row has four parts: the catch, drive, finish and recovery.
Each section targets a different muscle group, so it's a great machine for a gym. Before you start a long workout, make sure you practice your rowing.
It is also a great machine for weight loss because it works with many muscle groups. There are so many options for rowing that you won't get bored.
You can choose from pre-set exercises on the machine. These can be varied in difficulty so that you always have something to aim for. Or, set a distance goal and work as fast as possible.
This is just one of many advantages of the rowing machine - we've explored all the benefits of rowing machines in our comprehensive report.
#4 - Cross-trainer/Elliptical Machine
Targeted Muscles: Pectorals, calves, thighs and glutes.
The following exercises can be done with this machine: Walking and running at low impact
You can find it in the gym's cardio room/section
Cross-trainer, also known as an elliptical, is another great weight loss machine at the gym. It's a low-impact, full body workout that can help you burn calories and lose weight. The cross-trainer targets your entire body. You use your legs to move the pedals. However, you also work your arms, back and chest by pulling and pushing on the handles.
It is very user-friendly and easy to set up. You can also adjust the resistance to target specific muscles or decrease the intensity to burn more calories.
Cross-trainers have very little impact so they are great for anyone with joint problems. Simply place your feet on the provided platforms and then move your legs smoothly using the handles to guide and support you.
This machine can be used to change the way you work out. To work your calves, you can either step backwards or stand on your tiptoes. This provides an ideal exercise for your calves, as well as an additional challenge if you're beginning to find it too easy.
If you want to get a bigger burn on your abs and thighs, try standing with your knees bent forwards. This puts more pressure on the areas and helps build muscle and reduce excess fat.
#5 - Stairmaster
Muscles Targeted: Glutes, hamstrings, quads, calves
The following exercises can be done with this machine: Stair climbing
You can find it in the gym's cardio room/section
The Stairmaster is the ultimate gym machine that can work your glutes and burn calories. It will challenge your glutes and legs, but it also means you will see the results you desire quickly and efficiently.
This machine is easy to use and perfect for beginners. You simply need to climb the stairs like you would normally before it starts to cycle through them at an even pace.
You can use stairmasters for strength and cardio workouts. A HIIT session is a great cardio exercise. Run on the stairs for 20 second, then walk for 10 seconds. Then repeat those steps for 6-10 reps.
You can work up your intensity and climb the stairs for a stronger workout. This will target your legs and glutes especially, as well as working your core, although it's vital to ensure that you fully engage your core before undertaking this workout. You can get cardio and strength workouts from this machine, making it one of the most effective gym machines for weight loss.
A half-hour Stairmaster workout can burn approximately 200 calories. They're also great for beginners. There's no right or wrong way to climb stairs. The pace is slow enough to be able keep up even for a brief time.
#6 - Leg Press
Muscles Targeted: Glutes, hamstrings, quads, calves
You can also use this machine to do leg presses and calf presses.
You can find it in the Gym's Strength Room/Section (around other lower body machines).
Leg presses are a great strength machine to use in the gym. Because of its simplicity and ease of use, you won't need to prepare for this piece.
You can strengthen your leg muscles by doing a leg press before you attempt to do deadlifts or squats.
This machine is a safer option to struggling with a heavy bar. You simply need to lie down and place your feet on the plate. The weight can then be adjusted.
To target different parts of your legs, you can adjust the position of your feet on this machine. Your whole leg will be targeted if your feet are placed shoulder-width apart. However, if your feet are placed wider you will feel the impact more in your glutes.
To reduce injury, ensure your hips and back are press against the seat while you do this exercise. Although the leg press restricts your range of motion to prevent injury, it can be done to minimize the risk. Make sure you have a good form and don't over-weight the area.
#7 - Chest Press
Muscles Targeted : Pectorals, deltoids and triceps
This machine can be used to perform chest press exercises.
You can find it in the gym's strength room/section
We've been focusing on machines that are best for lower body. Let's now take a look at the best machine for chest. The chest press is not just for your chest; it also targets your shoulders and triceps.
This machine is great for beginners as it has a limited range of motion. It can be used to get used the feeling of a chest press before using dumbbells or bars, improve your form, and reduce the chance of injury.
When using the gym machine, make sure to maintain your form. For extra stability, keep your back straight and avoid arching. Your upper body can have many benefits. You may gain muscle or lose weight. This can be a great help in everyday activities.
Important to remember that gym machines don't only provide muscle growth. It's great to use weighted machines in your gym to tone and define your muscles, even if you don't want to gain muscle.
We'd also suggest incorporating stretches to ensure maximum effectiveness when you're using these gym machines - find out more in our comprehensive guide to the best chest presses.
#8 - Smith Machine
Targeted Muscles: All Body
You can perform the following exercises with this machine: Deadlifts, squats and bench presses; upright rows; shoulder presses; hip thrusts
You can find it in the gym's strength room/section
The Smith machine is a great weight lifting machine. It can target all of your body using just one machine. To keep the Smith machine safer than regular squat racks, they have a barbell attached at the rails.
This machine is great for its versatility. You can use it to squat as well as a variety of upper body exercises such as deadlifting, shoulder presses, hip thrusts, and bicep curls.
You can practice any of these exercises by loading weight onto the machine before you start. This will help you to feel comfortable with the machine, and to set the safety catches in the correct position.
Because of its extra safety, this is one the best gym machines to start with. A regular squat rack requires a spotter. There is also an increased risk of injury if the machine is used regularly. The Smith machines eliminate a lot the danger that we normally associate with these exercises.
#9 - Cable Machine
Targeted Muscles: All Body
You can do the following exercises with this machine: Rows, chest press, deadlifts and bicep curls. Shoulder press, shoulder press, wood chops.
You can find it in the gym's strength room/section
The cable machine, another great weight lifting machine in the gym is the one that can be overlooked at the gym. The cable machine isn't like other gym machines that limit the motion you can use.
Cable machines come with a carabiner, which allows you to swap attachments. The height of where the cable can be taken from is adjustable. This means that it can stretch from either the top, bottom or middle of the machine. Cable machines may be the best choice because they offer a level of adjustment that isn't possible with other machines.
Different attachments to the cable machine can be used for different things - bars can be used for bicep stretches and curls and deadlifts, and the rope can be used for rows and wood chops.
Cable machines are great for upper body exercises. You can do everything from bicep curls and chest presses to tricep extension. This makes them one of the most versatile gym machines.
To target this muscle group, you can do lower-body exercises like Romanian deadlifts or glute kickbacks. Wood chops can be used to target your abdomen and obliques.
Because of their versatility, this machine is great for beginners. This machine can do many exercises with dumbbells. The adjustable weights allow you to go as light or heavy as you want to get the exercise done.
Cable machines can also be useful for those who are returning from injury. They have the flexibility to adjust their weight and position until it is comfortable for them.
#10 - Lat Pulldown
Muscles targeted: Shoulders, biceps and lats
This machine is used for the following exercises: Lat pulldowns
You can find it in the gym's strength room/section
This machine is great for strengthening your back and working your back muscles. This machine is great for beginners as well as more experienced weightlifters. It targets the lats and strengthens your back.
You must ensure that you are using the gym machine correctly. Adjust the height of the bar so it is not too high above your head. Then, pull the bar to the level of your chin. If you're fully confident with lat pulls, you might also want to consider purchasing your own lat pulldown machine.
Maintain a strong mind-to-muscle connection. Feel the pull in your back. It's OK to move back, but it is best to stay still and to really concentrate on pulling those shoulder blades together.
This machine is one of the best for strength training. You will probably feel the burn in your shoulders, biceps, and back. We want to stress that proper form is essential, as injuries or aggravations can be caused by poor form.
Do not arch your back or place too many hands on the bar. This will not target your back enough. Start with lighter weights to get your form perfect before you move onto heavier weights.
#11 - Shoulder press
Shoulder Muscles Targeted
Use this machine to do shoulder press
You can find it in the gym's strength room/section. It is usually located near other machines that target the arms.
The shoulder press, one of the most popular weightlifting machines in the gym is ideal for beginners looking to increase their shoulder strength. This machine will teach you how to do the perfect shoulder press by following a fixed range of motion.
After you have practiced a few sets, adjust the height of the seat and the weight to your liking. This is a good idea for weighted gym machines as it allows you to build your weight slowly until you feel comfortable with the largest loads.
This exercise, which you can do with no weights, engages your core. However, since you are fully supported by the gym machine, it only works your shoulder muscles and increases engagement of that muscle group. We recommend that you fully engage your core while using the gym machine. This will give you stability.
You must not get complacent as this could lead to injury. When you reach the top of your press, keep your back straight and your elbows open. This will ensure you maintain a good engagement between your shoulders and your elbows and prevent you from overstretching.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
What Gym Machines should I Avoid?
This is the simple answer: there are no machines that you need to avoid or that should make you feel intimidated. It is important that all gym equipment be clearly labeled. A fitness instructor can provide guidance and suggestions if you are ever in doubt.
You can use each machine to learn about them and see if they work for you. This will allow you to create a schedule or routine and help you understand the connections between each muscle group.
If you are a beginner with the gym machines, make sure you follow the instructions and don't lift too much the first time you use them. Also, practice the sets before lifting weights.
You might also consider starting with fewer reps to get used to the posture and body position that you need to maximize your benefits from these exercises.
We've explored all the benefits of good posture in our thorough guide, but it's equally important to establish what does and doesn't work for your own fitness goals, as well as your body.
What are the Best Gym Machines for Losing Weight?
This is a subjective question that can vary depending on what exercises you do with the machine you choose. The short answer to this question is that all the machines in our gym will help you lose weight.
While all gym machines can have an impact on weight loss, it is important to think about the areas that you are looking to improve. If you are looking to lose belly fat then a machine that emphasizes your core (or the entire body) is ideal.
If you're unsure, OriGym have compiled a complete guide to the different types of body fat so you can fully determine what you want to work on, and how you can shed those excess pounds.
To lose fat, it is important to ensure that your body does not use stored fat as energy. This basically means that you eat less than the recommended daily intake of calories (2000 calories for women and 2500 for men).
Every gym machine will burn calories so be aware of what you eat when you are trying to lose weight.
Which Cardio Gym Machine Is Best?
The answer to this question depends on your preferences. Many cardio machines work the same muscles and will therefore be more focused on these areas. While there are numerous benefits of cardio and aerobic exercises, much of it comes down to personal opinion and fitness levels.
The stationary bike is a great choice if you are looking for a low-impact machine to use in the gym. It puts less strain on your knees and joints and doesn't require as much intensity. You can get a vigorous workout and not injure or damage weaker or more stable joints.
The same principle applies to rowing machines, too. Although they have a lower impact, they still target your entire body for an intense burn. They can also help with weight loss and muscle gains, particularly in the core and legs.
While choosing a cardio exercise is often up to you, we recommend diversifying your cardio exercise routine. This allows you to try new cardio exercises, as well as ensuring that you don't lose interest and stagnate in the ones you are doing.
We recommend that you also adjust the settings of these cardio machines. This will allow for a more controlled exercise and can offer additional challenges such as an increase in the incline of a treadmill or an intensification of the stairmaster.
Before You Go
We hope that you enjoyed our list of the top gym machines for beginners and that it helped you to get a better understanding of your goals and the ways you can achieve them.
Although it can seem intimidating to make your first visit to the gym, using the machines to improve your form and strength is a great way for you to increase your confidence and strength and decrease the chance of injury. You can also use the gym machines to get the right form. This is a great starting point for more structured exercises like free weights.
If you are confident in your abilities and know the importance of correct form, then a career as a fitness professional might be the next step.
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