You can use your body weight to get a full-body workout, but if you want to break through to another level, get acquainted with weightlifting fitness equipment. With so many varieties of equipment in the gym and for sale, finding out which pieces are essential can be confusing. Knowing the basics about weightlifting equipment can prepare you to make the best out of your workout.
Types
Weightlifting equipment usually comes in two types---free weights and machines. Free weights are what they sound like, weights that are lifted directly by the user like dumbbells, barbells, weight plates and kettlebells. Free weights are favored by many athletes and bodybuilders because they are best for performing lifts in the most natural way and for working stabilizing muscles. Free weights are often used in tandem with a weight bench, which assists the user in lifting from different positions.
Weight machines employ pulleys, levers and other mechanisms with the aim of keeping the user safe. Although they aren't used for "weightlifting" per se, resistance bands are another piece of equipment used by weightlifters.
Function
Its not about how much weightlifting equipment you have, it's about what you do with it. Free weights can be used for most muscle-building exercises. Many bodybuilders and athletes subscribe to an almost free weight-exclusive regimen.
A weight bench allows the user to lift from the seated, laying and incline positions, among others. Lifts like shoulder and bench presses are best performed on a weight bench. Weight benches are often attached to an adjustable press stand that holds the barbell.
Weightlifting machines are often made for one specific exercise, such as the bench press or squat. Safety is a benefit of machines, and many people can lift heavier with machines because they balance the weight. Machines with pulley attachments can be used for a variety of unique exercises, like cable crossovers and lat pulldowns, as well as replications of common lifts.
Resistance bands can be used to build muscle much like weights through tension. Some commercial bands can provide upwards of 200 pounds of resistance. They are also portable.
Durability
Free weights such as dumbbells and kettlebells are generally one solid piece of metal and could be considered nearly indestructible. Steel plates and barbells are the same, but the collars used to secure them together are often made of pliable metal, and they can become loose.
The best weightlifting machines are made of heavy-duty materials like steel and should last years as long as they are maintained. Load-bearing bolts and screws need to be checked and tightened, and moisture should be wiped away to avoid rusting. Cables should regularly be checked for fraying. The same rules apply to weight benches, too.
Resistance bands can loose their elasticity with prolonged use and can snap if overextended.
Cost
A standard price for free weights is $1 a pound, which can add up if you are purchasing hundreds of pounds of weight. However, they last a lifetime and are generally considered a worthwhile investment.
Weight benches from reputable brands can cost $89 to $500---and up.
Weight lifting machines can cost between $300 and $2,500, and gym-quality machines can cost even more.
Resistance generally cost $15 to $80, but some resistance band-based home gyms cost around $200.
Considerations
If you are new to weightlifting and are considering buying equipment to get started, start with free weights and a work bench to develop a solid base of strength before moving on to a weightlifting machine or other equipment.
If you are new to exercise, check with a doctor or physician to determine if you need to take any special precautions.
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