[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
We began this series<\/a> by looking at some of the key players in the world of gym equipment. Equipment such as treadmills, rowing machines and spin bikes are all instantly recognisable and familiar to many.<\/p>\n However, your local Hussle gym<\/a> is a real ensemble cast, containing a much wider range of fitness equipment.<\/p>\n So let\u2019s have a look at some of them, learn more about what they do, how to get the best out of them and the benefits that doing so will deliver.<\/p>\n If you are looking to focus your gym session, freshen it up by trying new things or just broaden your knowledge, here is some more common gym equipment<\/a> decoded just for you.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.hussle.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Lat-Pull-Down-Machine2-min-scaled.jpg” alt=”Lat Pull Down Machine” title_text=”Lat Pull Down Machine2-min” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In many ways the Lat Pull Down is the perfect antidote to something we all experience, gravity! It is the perfect piece of equipment<\/a> for better posture, better breathing and feeling stronger.<\/p>\n The Lat Pull Down gets its name from the lat (lattisimus dorsi<\/a>) muscle that it targets when used correctly.\u00a0<\/p>\n You sit, facing the body the machine with the bar overhead. A pulley system connects that bar to the weights housed in the body of the machine.<\/p>\n It is important to select the weight you feel comfortable pulling; you\u2019ll be pulling that weight down towards your chest before slowly extending your arms back up to their starting position.<\/p>\n Preparation and technique are important factors in effective lat pulldowns. Both to use the machine safely and target the lat muscle.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Lat Pulldowns promote excellent spinal stability and better posture<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It is a great piece of equipment<\/a> for biceps, deltoids and healthy shoulders too!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.hussle.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Leg-Press-Machine-min-scaled.jpg” alt=”Leg Press Machine” title_text=”Leg Press Machine-min” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n As their name implies; Leg Presses focus on the legs, targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings and going up to the glutes.<\/p>\n There are two main types of leg press you might come across in your local gym<\/a>. One is the standard horizontal leg press and the other, a 45-degree variation.\u00a0<\/p>\n Leg presses might look simple, but it is very important to learn how to use them safely to avoid injury.<\/p>\n The leg press machine<\/a> is an important part of many people\u2019s circuit workout and strengthening routines. The machine is used seated with the back and head resting comfortably against padded support.<\/p>\n Feet are placed firmly on the machine\u2019s footplate, with heels flat about hip-width apart. Typically there are handles to ensure support and to keep your head and back in position.<\/p>\n To perform the leg press, simply push the platform where your feet are planted, away with heel and forefoot. This should always be done with slow control and never be afraid to start with a modest weight and advancing slowly as you build.<\/p>\n Never place more weight on your leg presses than you are comfortable with, form is far more important than the amount of weight you are lifting.<\/p>\n Give The Leg Press a go!<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The leg press is a perfect<\/a> way to enjoy the benefits of a barbell squat for your quads, as well as developing or toning your buttocks, hamstrings and calves<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”24px||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.hussle.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/smith-machine-min-min-scaled.jpg” alt=”smith machine” title_text=”smith machine-min-min” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”904px” custom_margin=”|auto|-396px|auto||” custom_padding=”0px||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||-14px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The Smith Machine is one for the weight trainers, consisting of a barbell, fixed within rails that allow for vertical movement and a self-spotting form of weight lifting<\/a>.<\/p>\n Some smith machines have a counterbalance on the barbell and they can be used for a wide variety of lifts, although the smith machine squat tends to be the most popular.<\/p>\n While some say that Smith Machines limit the use of stabilising muscles compared to lifting free weights, for casual or novice weight lifters, the Smith Machine is always a popular choice.<\/p>\n If squatting with the Smith Machine, it is important to set the locking mechanisms located on each side. Setting these at the right height will allow you to safely stop if you are unable to return to the upright position mid-squat.<\/p>\n Many people new to Smith Machines tend to place the bar on the back of the neck. However resting the bar on top of, or slightly behind your shoulders is a great beginner\u2019s tip.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The Smith Machine is perfect for anyone new to fitness and lifting weights<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It will also allow you to confidently lift heavier<\/a> weights compared to the free rack, although it is important to build weights slowly<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.hussle.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/AMENDED-Blog-Post-One.png” alt=”Hussle Gym” title_text=”One Network” url=”https:\/\/www.hussle.com” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||25px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.hussle.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cable-Machine-2-min-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Cable Machine 2-min” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n While the mighty cable machine often comes in a range of shapes and sizes, they all fulfil more or less the same role.<\/p>\n They work much the same as any other machine built to improve strength, by providing resistance!<\/p>\n That resistance comes from adjustable cable pulleys found on its rectangular, vertical steel frame. Typically the weight stacks can be found at either end and are adjusted as required.\u00a0<\/p>\n Other aspects of the machine are adjustable too, such as the pads to suit your range of motion.<\/p>\n Once tailored to your needs and fitness goals<\/a>, the Cable Machine is versatile. You can do a few drills for example, or an entire full-body session. Cable presses, cable crunches, cable crossovers, rows, curls and pull downs are all waiting to be learnt.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 One of the most versatile machines in your local Hussle gym, the Cable Machine can be used to target specific muscle groups or an entire full body workout<\/a><\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 They deliver constant tension through every stage of weight lifting and lowering, that means greater muscle fatigue and ultimately; greater gains in strength<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||25px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.hussle.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Leg-Abductor-Machine-min-min-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Leg Abductor Machine-min-min” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.13.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The Abductor machine is a well known and familiar machine in your local Hussle gym, getting to know it and using it correctly can carry a range of benefits. They include better core stability, better coordinated movement, general flexibility and more.<\/p>\n Just like the name suggests, the Abductor Machine exercises<\/a> the abductor muscles of the hips, including the gluteus maximus, minimus and others, for tighter, more toned muscles.<\/p>\n Using the abductor involves pushing the legs apart against resistance, as opposed to the adductor which brings the legs together.\u00a0 Both variations also help to rotate the leg at the hip joint and often there are dual models which can do both.<\/p>\n The Leg Abductor is typically used in a seated position with straightened back and hands gripping the handles each side.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Leg Abductors help to strengthen a muscle group<\/a> we use continuously every day; they can have a real impact<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 If you are looking for a firm, toned bottom, it is the ideal machine to use<\/p>\n What do you think about our gym fitness tips<\/a>?<\/p>\n Now you\u2019ve been introduced to many of the most popular, why not try some of the equipment above, for yourself as part of Hussle\u2019s One Network. Thousands of Gyms, and Zero Contracts!<\/p>\nHere\u2019s part 2 of your ultimate equipment guide<\/strong><\/h2>\n
The Lat Pull Down Machine<\/strong><\/h3>\n
It is worth getting right for the following benefits:<\/strong><\/h4>\n
The Leg Press<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The Smith Machine<\/strong><\/h2>\n
The Smith Machine might be ideal because:<\/h4>\n
The Cable Machine<\/strong><\/h3>\n
<\/h3>\n
What\u2019s great about The Cable Machine?<\/h4>\n
Leg Abductors<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Why should you try The Leg Abductor?<\/h4>\n