Why are cable machines so hard?

(Related: cables are the only gym machines you need)

“The constant resistance of a cable means you're under tension on the way forward, as well as on the way back,” Laidler adds. Much like lowering a bicep curl under control, the cable teaches you to work your muscles throughout the lift.

Why are cable machines harder than free weights?

Cable machines can be tougher to access, recruit fewer muscle groups and offer fewer weight options. Meanwhile, free weights require more technique, are less safe and can be inconvenient in a busy gym.

Why do cable machines feel different?

The angles of the mechanical device, the movement pattern of its handles, the number of pulleys used, all of these can affect the way the weight “feels” on the other end. 15lbs on one machine may “weigh” slightly less or more on another machine due to the complexity of the pulley system involved.

Are cables harder than free weights?

One is not inherently better than the other. It's situation specific. Free weights can be limiting in the range of motion through which they provide resistance. Cables can be easier to set up to train every range and position.

Are cable machines as effective as weights?

There is no “resting point” while using cable machines, unlike free weights, but both are very effective with a goal to create muscle and improve strength for different reasons.

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Can you build muscle with only cable machines?

A cable machine, also called a pulley machine, is an incredible tool for building muscle. Not only does it allow you to challenge your body from angles that are difficult to replicate with free weights or traditional machines, but it's an overwhelmingly safe way to train to failure (or close to it).

What is the actual weight on a cable machine?

Generally, you will find the weight plates are labeled in pounds, especially if you live in the United States. Typically, each plate weighs 10 pounds, but you can find other, slightly heavier plates that weigh 20 pounds each. The number of plates on each stack varies, but are usually total at least 200 pounds.

Why can I lift less on a cable machine?

simple, you need to stabilize the weight when using dumbbells but when you use a machine, you just need to push or pull where it needs to go.

What is a disadvantage of cable machines?

Cable machines have disadvantages of their own as well. The assistance provided by the machine in lifting the weights reduces your reliance on your stabilizing muscles, decreasing their effectiveness. And because your motion is locked in by the machine, you risk injury by making unnatural movements.

Why are cable curls harder than dumbbell curls?

Cable bicep curls undoubtedly provide the one thing that dumbbell curls can not provide: constant tension on the bicep muscle. Dumbbell curls provide great muscle tension, but this stimulation dwindles as you begin the concentric phase.

Why does digital weight feel heavier?

The main reason why Tonal weight feels heavier than barbell free weights comes down to how the resistance is generated. The digital weight on Tonal is produced by an electromagnetic motor that takes the natural momentum you'd normally experience with free weights out of the equation.

Why do weights feel heavier at the gym?

The real answer lies in one of two reasons. The first is the ergonomics of the weights. The weights at the gym may be designed differently, may possibly be smaller in size (and more dense) and therefore more comfortable or easy to lift. The other reason is psychological.

Do free weights get you bigger than machines?

The free weight and machine groups both gained muscle with NO difference in how much muscle was gained. Both groups also increased their strength to the same degree.

How much does the bar weigh on a cable machine?

HOW MUCH DOES A SMITH MACHINE BAR WEIGH? Smith machine bars can weight anywhere from 6lbs to ~45lbs, but the average range is somewhere between 15-25lbs at most commercial gyms.

Are cable machines easier on joints?

“Cables are a lot more fluid and smooth than free weights,” says Sims. “Using a series of pulleys means you're less likely to get hurt as you don't directly push or pull against the force of gravity,” explains Sims. This puts less stress on your joints for safer sets and reps.

What muscles do cable machines work?

Depending on the type of exercise you actually do on the cable machine, you can get a good workout that will both target and then benefit your chest muscles, your back muscles, your deltoids, your biceps, your triceps, your abdominal muscles and your lower back muscles, your leg muscles and your hips, too.

What can I use instead of a cable machine?

Use resistance bands at home as a cable machine alternative

If you don't want to approach the cable pulley machine at the gym or just want to get some similar moves at home, using resistance bands is the perfect way to simulate these moves.

How many reps should I do on cable machine?

A good rule is to keep reps between 6-12 to develop muscle growth with weights that are challenging enough for you. One of the best workouts to do with the cable crossover is the ladder. Pick a weight that you are able to do between 8-12 reps and stick to it the entire workout.

Why can I do more weight on machine than with free weights?

Machines offer more stability, which means you can put up more weight. “If you're doing a standing cable row, you can lift way less weight than if you're on a machine,” Tumminello says.

Why do cable weights feel lighter?

Simply put, more pulleys make an object feel lighter by reducing the tension force necessary to lift a load.

Do more pulleys make lifting easier gym?

Using multiple pulleys decreases the amount of force necessary to move an object by increasing the amount of rope used to raise the object. The mechanical advantage (MA) of a pulley system is equal to the number of ropes supporting the movable load.

How much does 2 pulley reduce weight?

Pulley FAQ

Similarly, a two-wheel pulley splits the weight equally so that each holds only half the weight, allowing you to lift the same weight with half of the force.

Can you build a big chest with cables?

Cable flyes are an effective way to strengthen your chest muscles and an alternative to the bench press. They are a great exercise for building strength in your upper body, especially the chest area.