Many people are drawn to multi station gym equipment because it is, essentially, several different weight machines that have been joined together. This allows you to perform numerous exercises on a single piece of equipment, lessening your movement around the gym and minimising instances when you have to weight for machines to be free. But how should I use the station in my workout?
Firstly, determine whether a multi station is right for you
It is often believed that beginners will benefit most from using fixed-weight gym equipment. This is because it is easier to use, requires less balance and coordination, and also carries a lower risk of injury. Whilst this doesn’t mean that intermediate and even advanced bodybuilders won’t benefit from the use of these stations, they may find that the weights offered don’t suit their needs.
Secondly, plan for a total body workout
When working with a multi gym, it is important to remember that you will be limited in terms of exercise selection. This often means that full body training will be your best option. Most stations will offer seven basic exercises – chest presses, assisted chin-ups, leg presses, leg curls, bicep curls, tricep extensions and lateral raises. If not, it is possible to substitute in another exercise instead.
Thirdly, make the most of your time
Like cardio equipment, multi stations will often be in demand by other gym patrons and will become annoyed if you spend too much time on them. A timed workout can help you to make the most of your visit – pick six exercises, for example, and perform each for five minutes. Make sure you rest as needed between each rep, allowing others to use the machine (if desired).
Fourthly, don’t neglect the finer details of weight training
If you’re new to weight training, it can be a good idea to enlist the assistance of a personal trainer to help you learn the proper technique. This will ensure that you’re working out your body properly, as well as reducing your risk of injury. It is also a good idea to remember that this gym equipment has been designed for small weight increments, so aim to lift heavier or increase your reps each time.
Whilst we certainly recommend incorporating multi station gym equipment into your workout routine, we want to stress that this needs to be done properly if you want to see results. It is important that you determine whether such equipment is right for your weight training needs, that you plan an appropriate workout, that you make the most of your time, and that you learn the technique.