Gyms can be an intimidating place, especially for people who are not sure where to start. However, there are at least three staple weightlifting machines that should be incorporated into a workout routine to ensure great results. Barbell squats, the barbell bench press and the lying leg curl are three great weightlifting machines that give great results when done correctly. In addition, Smith machines are available to provide a spotter-like replacement for the squat and bench press movements.
Barbell Squat
Incorporating barbell squats into your workout is extremely beneficial. Squats promote leg strength, muscle building, flexibility and knee stability. Squats hit the quadriceps, hamstrings and glutes. Smith machines are also available at most gyms, which provide a built-in assistance to act as a spotter. However, the more effective exercise is the barbell squat because there is no extra help.
Barbell Bench Press
The barbell bench press is one of the best machines for the upper body because of its wide range of muscles it targets, including the pectoral, biceps and triceps muscles. Also, a wider grip focuses on the pectoral muscles more and a closer grip focuses on the triceps muscles more. In addition, Smith machines are also available for the bench press to act as a spotter.
Lying Leg Curl
Lying leg curls directly target the hamstrings. Besides the hamstrings, the lying leg curl machine also focus on the glutes. To make the exercise harder, the lying leg curl machines also provide the option to use one leg at a time instead of two, forcing you to work harder and focus more on one leg at a time.
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