A multi gym, a large piece of exercise equipment, provides as the name indicates multiple strength-training exercises. Gyms and community centers typically have at least one professional multi gym. Using a multi gym at home allows you to move easily from one exercise to another.
Considerations
\Before you purchase a multi-gym, consider your needs, space requirements and abilities. Multi gyms take up a fair amount of space. Some may be too tall for your ceiling, particularly if you want to locate the gym in a basement. Look for a gym that is sturdy, can support your weight, offers different exercises and is easy to adjust. Some multi gyms operate with stacked weights, while others use an adjustable cable system. If possible, use the mutli gym at a sporting goods store before committing to a purchase.
Goals
Set specific goals when using a multi gym. If you want to build your abdominal muscles, select a multi gym with a captain's chair area and an incline weight bench. Write down the exercises you will perform at each workout session on a chart and post it on your wall or keep it in your exercise journal. Indicate how much weight you will use for each exercise. Select weights that make you feel fatigued at the end of each set of repetitions.
Workout Routine
A benefit to the multi gym is the ability to achieve a total body workout on one machine. Set your multi gym at the appropriate weight and setting to perform a set of chest presses. Use a lat pulldown exercise to work your back and shoulders. Leg presses or leg extensions strengthen your leg muscles. Position the weights or cables properly to perform triceps and biceps exercises. Finish with abdominal curls on the attached weight bench or use the captain's chair. Work out two to three times per week, for about 20 to 30 minutes a session, varying the upper and lower body exercises you perform.
Limitations
The American Council on Exercise indicates that a multi gym may be an appropriate piece of equipment for a beginner. If you are more advanced, you may feel restricted by the limited types of exercises you can perform. If adding more weight or cable resistance does not challenge you properly, add free weights and dumbbells to your workout routine to increase your strength.
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