Fixed Vs Free Form Resistance Equipment?

This is a valid question that you should definetely know the answer if you are currently working out and want to increase your strength in big numbers.

Below I attached an article that reveals the answer for you.

STRENGTH OUTCOMES IN FIXED VERSUS FREE-FORM
RESISTANCE EQUIPMENT
KEITH C. SPENNEWYN
Health and Exercise Science Department, Minnesota School of Business/Globe University, Shakopee, Minnesota

from the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research,
VOLUME 22 NUMBER 1 JANUARY 2008

ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study was to compare measures of strength
and balance between subjects using fixed form or free-form
resistance training equipment to determine whether there is a
difference in strength or balance outcomes. Thirty previously
untrained subjects, mean age = 49 (63.7 years), were randomly
placed in either a free-form strength group (FF n = 10)
utilizing a commercially available free-form plate loaded resistance
device, a fixed form strength group (FX n = 10) utilizing a
commercially available fixed range selectorized resistance
device or a control group (C; n = 10) who did not exercise. All
groups were assessed during a pretest (T1) and a posttest
(T2). The exercise groups were asked to exercise over a 16-
week period, increasing resistance based on a standardized 8–
12 repetition protocol. The same muscles were targeted in both
exercise groups, all groups were instructed not to change their
dietary habits. A one-way ANOVA was used to detect differences
among the groups using baseline and end results
data. FX group increased strength 57% from baseline while the
FF group increased strength 115% from baseline. A statistically
significant difference (P = 0.000001) was detected for
strength production in the FF over the FX group and (P =
0.0000144) over the training and control groups. Balance
improved 49% in the FX versus 245% in the FF groups. Testing
revealed a statistically significant difference (P # 0.003). The
control (C) group did not show significant improvement in either
strength or balance. Results of this study indicate a greater
improvement in FF over FX in strength (58%), and balance
(196%). Additionally, the FX reported increased pain levels
while the FF group reported lowered overall pain levels.

Free Form Resistance Equipment (FFRE) surely kick ass. I definetly experience it on my own and with my personal training clients, yet the results are unbelievable. The FFRE exercises are more fun, challenging with more that one muscle group surely firing compare with the Fixed equipment.

I'm out.........