Lately, I’ve noticed something during my workouts—free weight squats and deadlifts are just… exhausting. I’m not talking about the satisfying kind of tired, either. It’s more like a “why am I completely wiped after one exercise?” kind of tired. And honestly, it started making me dread certain gym days.
So, I decided to switch things up. I started using more machines, just to see how it felt—and you know what? It felt great. Surprisingly great.
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Machines Have Come a Long Way
Truth is, I used to think machines were only for beginners or people avoiding the “real work.” Maybe you did too. But today’s machines are a whole different story. They’re smoother, better engineered, and way more comfortable to use than what we had 10 or even 5 years ago.
Some of the newer ones actually mimic the natural movement patterns of free weights really well. You get a solid workout, but without needing to worry so much about balance, bar path, or tweaking your lower back mid-set.
Easier on the Body = More Consistency
One of the biggest things that changed for me was how I felt after workouts. With machines, I’ve been able to hit all my muscle groups hard without the same level of fatigue dragging me down after leg day. No more lying on the floor for 10 minutes after squats (I’m exaggerating here, but you know what I mean) wondering why I chose this life.
And let’s be honest—if a workout style lets you train more consistently without feeling beat up all the time, that’s a win.
But Can You Actually Build Muscle with Machines?
Short answer: absolutely.
As long as you’re challenging yourself with enough intensity and progressing over time, machines can be just as effective as free weights for building strength and size. You might not get quite the same level of stabilization work, but you make up for it with better control and less risk of injury when your form starts to go.
Plus, machines let you focus more on individual muscles, which can help if you’re working on weaknesses or trying to improve specific areas.
So… Are Machines “Good Enough”?
For me—at this point in my training—they’re not just good enough, they’re kind of ideal. I still mix in free weights here and there if I’m feeling good. But honestly, I don’t feel any guilt or like I’m “cheating” by using machines more often now.
Life’s busy. Recovery isn’t always perfect. And if machines let you train harder, more often, and without feeling wrecked all the time? That sounds like smart training to me.
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