Weight training helps in a big way to develop the strength and size of muscles. With the help of concentric and eccentric contractions, the skeletal muscles produce a lot of force, exercising using free weights, helps in resisting this force by utilizing gravity. Various equipments available in the market for strength training help in focusing on specific muscles and kinds of movements.
Strength training using free weights has several advantages. While doing these exercises, in general, it is necessary to use several muscle groups for every exercise. For instance, while doing a seated version bicep curl, apart from the shoulders, the abs and legs also come into play and hence strength training helps in developing a better overall balance. Conditionings of muscles take place, which does not happen if one is not regularly involved in gym. Another big advantage is that, it helps in bringing about a wide range of motions. This is because unlike in the case of machine exercises, strength training demands control on the behalf of the person who is exercising.
While looking at the disadvantages, weight training with free weights is not suitable for novices. It is only recommended for people who have enough experience in strength training. If performed without proper guidance from an experienced trainer, it could lead to some severe complications. To prevent injury of any kind, it’s always better to follow the guidelines offered by an expert.
To know if free weights is suitable, it’s important to first specify the purpose of training to the trainer or coach so that he could offer valuable inputs that would help in making a wise decision. If the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, then there is no fear in weight training. However, care should be taken to make sure all guidelines are followed. This way, safety does not become an issue.