OMG! Can we talk about some of the machines at the gym? Particularly, the Hip "AB" ductor machines. Excuse me but for lack of a better term, it looks like some of the women using them are humping the machine! They have so much weight loaded on that they have to stand up halfway while pressing their knees out and in.
As an exercise professional, I try to focus on the functionality of movement. For example, we bend and lift things so we need to have a strong core to perform this function. In this case, we might progress (not initially) to bodyweight squats with a military (overhead) press. What function in everyday life can you think of that requires you to move your knees out and in repeatedly while in a seated position? Uh...I can't think of any. But I do know that this machine can put undue stress on your lower back.
The leg extension machine is another one. Especially for women! The load is initiated at the shin, leaving your knee unsupported and vulnerable to ACL injury. I'm not sitting at my computer right now extending my knees back and forth and I could pretty much bet you probably aren't either. So why would you use this machine at the gym?
Just because a machine exists (like certain foods) doesn't necessarily mean it's good for you. I can think of a whole host of exercises you can do to build lean muscle and sculpted legs from taking my BARRE class though!
Next time you're at the gym, or wherever you might be working out, think of exercises that mimic everyday movement.
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