Walking into a gym can be intimidating. If you’re familiar with how to go through a series of strength exercises, targeting specific muscle groups, it can help put you at ease. Once you master the proper movement pattern using weight machines, you can progress to free weights, which engage more of the stabilizing muscles. Follow the how-to instructions on the machines to ensure proper alignment. If the instructions are not clear, ask a trainer or facility employee to further explain the proper range of motion. Be mindful of not letting the weight plates hit at the end of each repetition. The loud sounds can be disruptive to those around you at the gym. Also, focusing on where the weight is helps you focus on a smooth range of motion.
The chest press for targeting the chest muscles (pectoralis, biceps, triceps)
This machine mimics a push-up. In a seated position you will push the bar away from you. The seat can be adjusted so the bars are at the proper chest height. If you’re trying to build strength in these muscles, you can start with a low resistance. As you build strength, you can increase the weight.
Lat-pull down for targeting the back (latissimus dorsi and shoulder girdle)
This is a great machine to build strength if you want to progress to pull-ups. In a seated position, arms extended above you grasping the bar, pull the bar down to about shoulder height. Return to the starting position. If you are new to this machine, use an under grasp (palms facing you). This engages the biceps allowing you to engage more muscle into the exercise. You can also use the reverse pec fly or the seated row machine if your gym does not have a lat-pull down machine.
Overhead machine press for targeting the shoulders
Gyms may vary in whether a standing or seated overhead machine press is available. Position yourself so that, whether standing or sitting, the barbell is at a height where your arms are almost fully extended. Starting position is with the bar at about your chin or nose height. With palms facing forward you push the bar up, extending your arms. Exhale on the extension. Inhale as you lower the bar to the starting position.
Leg press for targeting the quadriceps, glutes, hamstrings and calves
The leg press is a great way to target all of these muscles if you only have time for a short workout. As you build strength you can move from the machine to body weight squats. In a seated, semi-reclined position you will begin in a squat, knees bent. Feet are squared about shoulder-width apart. Exhale as you push away from the base plate and inhale as you lower back to the starting position.
Cable biceps bar for targeting the biceps
Using the bar, versus dumbbells or free weights, allows you to slowly raise and lower the bar while avoiding a swinging motion. The cable machine can be customized – you can use a straight bar, rope or V-bar depending on your preference and what is available at the gym. In a standing position, hold the bar with arms extended down, palms facing out. Exhale as you lift the cable up and towards your body, like a bicep curl. Inhale and return to the starting position.
Cable triceps bar (or triceps push down) for targeting the triceps
Building strength with the triceps bar helps with push-ups and pull-ups. Just like the cable biceps bar you can customize your grip by using a straight bar, rope or V-bar attachment. While standing, position the bar so you can hold it with your arms at your side,elbows bent, palms facing out. Exhale as you press down until arms are extended. Inhale, return to the starting position.
Hanging leg raise for targeting the core and hip flexors
There is no weight to add or take away from this piece of equipment. Your legs will hang freely as you support yourself with your forearms and your back resting against the backboard. With legs extended, exhale and raise your legs up so your hips are at about a ninety-degree angle. Inhale and return slowly to the starting position. If a hanging leg raise is not available, traditional planks are an excellent alternative.
Written by: Stephanie Coburn, Wellness Workdays Dietetic Intern
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Deciding which machine to use at the gym can seem overwhelming. What works for one person may not be best for others due to fitness level or physical status. Do you tend to stick to the same machine every time you hit the gym because you’re comfortable on it? Gyms provide a number of machines for cardiovascular endurance and conditioning. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity five days a week. Let’s dive into five of the most popular machines and what they’re best for.
Treadmill
Treadmills can appear intimidating if you think they are made for athletic runners, but that is simply not the case. Treadmills are highly adaptable machines for every fitness level. You can adjust the speed and the incline, which varies the intensity level of the workout. It works your lower body including hamstrings, quadriceps, shins, calves and glutes.
Stairmaster
Who doesn’t love a never-ending staircase? Stairmasters provide a strong cardio workout while simultaneously building muscular endurance. This machine forces you to keep moving the entire time and activates the muscles we avoid using when skipping the stairs for the elevator or escalator. It works your glutes, quads, hamstrings and calves. Keep your posture upright and your core and balance will strengthen too.
Rowing Machine
Rowing machines are regaining popularity as they achieve a total body workout all while sitting down. Now don’t fool yourself -- this is no walk (or row) in the park. Elevate your heart rate while your whole body is engaged during the workout; expect to burn a lot of calories. This machine is great for those with joint issues as it is very low impact.
Stationary Bike
Stationary bikes are a good choice for those looking for the lowest impact cardio workout. It builds lower body strength, endurance and stamina. For the highest intensity, check out a local indoor spin studio to get your heart pumping. Instructional YouTube videos can also be viewed while using the stationary bike. This machine works your quads, glutes, hip flexors and hamstrings, as well as your core.
Elliptical
Ellipticals are another great machine for low impact aerobic exercise. It combines the treadmill and Stairmaster in one fluid movement. Raise your heart rate without running out of breath. If you opt to use the moveable handles, you will be engaging your whole body including upper body, abs, glutes and quads.
Bottom Line: There are a lot of options at the gym for a great cardio workout. Be open to switching up your routine and machine to engage different muscles. Don’t be afraid to ask a trainer at your gym if you are using the machine properly.
Written by: Kayla Arouchon, Wellness Workdays Dietetic Intern
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