Are machines (in general) really that bad? All I have is planet

With machines the big issues are the lack of stabilizer muscle use and that the weight is never truly unassisted.

Using machines will work if you train properly, but when you switch back to free weights, it will be disheartening.

Bump. Met a dude today who said he ever has followed a routine, and is what I would say is my ideal goal body type. He said he's only ever done machines. How.

>>41722221
So is it reasonable to use them to build a base strength so that I'm ready for barbells and dumbbells when I switch gyms?

You can look fine using just machines as long as your diet's in order. When you go to barbell exercises you'll be pretty weak though. At least put some priority on doing weighted pull-ups and weighted dips.

>>41722256
Thanks man. I can't do a pull up yet but I'll start doing negatives. And I've never tried dips before, I'll give that a shot too.

>>41722232

Yes, but remember to research strict form before you transition to Free Weights. Also leave your ego in the machine section, otherwise you'll hurt yourself trying to do the same weight.

>>41722331
Absolutely. Thank you for the advice.

My planet fitness has dumbbells up to 75 pounds, I'd say machines aren't bad but use them with some free weight exercises till you build a bit more strength for dumbbells

I think that a mixture of both machines and free weight is good. Machines can build definition and free weight can build more mass.
If it's only machines then ur going to just maintain your gains, and make not as much progress. A month isn't long though.

>>41722654
>>41722736
So do you guys think I should stay away from doing lifts on the smith machine? Or continue doing them?

>>41722777
I went to PF while saving up for my home set up. When I switched to a real barbell, I had to learn how to balance the shit myself and also all my lifts dropped at least 20lbs, but they were still there. So smith machines aren't ideal, but should make a decent holdover.

Just increase the weight and add a bit more accessory, no big deal.

>>41723008
Thanks dude

>>41722777
Make due with what's available. It's better than doing nothing

>>41723427
You're right man