Using gym machines to get fit and strong can be a great complement to your cardio workout routine. This is especially true for those who are new to working out and anyone recovering from an injury. Relying on exercise equipment can prevent injuries, ensure safe strength training, and really build muscle. Gym machines can also help you maintain a proper range of motion, reducing your risk of under- or over-extending your joints.
How to Get the Greatest Benefit Using Gym Machines
Fitness equipment can look intimidating at first glance. With all the buttons, levers, gears, weights, and bars, knowing what to do with it all is sometimes confusing. However, keep in mind that every machine in your gym is designed to work with your body, not against it! These machines were built for you!
At Prodigy Gym, we are always happy to help explain the equipment to our gym members, so don’t hesitate to speak up!
Other helpful tips for using gym machines include working with a trainer, varying your repetition range and tempo, using more than one machine, and challenging yourself.
Work with a Personal Trainer
You must use fitness equipment effectively and properly to achieve maximum results. The best way to learn how to use gym machines (and how not to use them) is to work with a personal fitness trainer. There are usually a few different ways to use equipment, and you’ll want to know your options to find which method(s) are right for your goals. Plus, working with personal training coach is one of the best ways to keep yourself accountable and crush your goals!
Change Up Your Repetitions
To really get your muscles working, make sure you vary how many repetitions of each exercise you do on gym machines. You’ll also want to alternate the speed at which you do repetitions. Variety creates a thorough, effective workout. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends strength training at least two non-consecutive days per week, with two or three sets of 8-12 repetitions of an exercise.
Use More Than One Gym Machine
Different machines target different muscles in various parts of the body. Using more than one machine will mix up your exercise routine so you can focus on something different and exciting each day. Make sure to alternate between targeting upper-body and lower-body for even results.
Challenge Yourself
Using gym machines is all about consistently making yourself better. In order to get the best results, the ACSM suggests that you strive for each workout to feel like an 8/10 on the difficulty scale. You can do it!
To reach what feels like “8/10,” you should be straining by the end of your sets and reps. Challenge yourself to do five more reps, go for two more minutes, or climb one more flight. Push yourself to use your favorite fitness equipment in different ways to maximize the potential of each machine. Those extra reps, minutes, and flights add up, and you will love how you look and most importantly, how you feel!!
Surround Yourself with Support
The single best thing you can do to get fit and strong using gym machines is to surround yourself with people who want you to succeed! Sign up for a free three-day pass with Prodigy Gym & Fitness and become a part of our fitness family!
More From Our Northern Colorado Fitness Blog:
What to Look for When Joining a Gym in Ft. Collins
