A solid weight-training machine that usually uses a weighted pulley system to vary resistance. Some fixed-weight machines are designed for a wide range of muscle-strengthening exercises (see multi-gym); others are used for exercises on specific muscle groups. The butterfly machine, for example, has pads which are moved by the arm and chest muscles in a manner reminiscent of butterfly wings. The lateral pull-down machine has a bar which is grasped above the head. The exerciser pulls down on the bar, working the muscles in the arms and back, particularly the latissimus dorsi muscles. The total hip machine has padded rollers that can be pushed back and forth by the leg muscles, enabling an exerciser to tone the hips and thighs. The total calf machine has a fixed seat and a back plate against which the feet are pushed to strengthen the calf muscles. The recumbent leg press helps to work buttock and thigh muscles when a foot pad is pushed in an effort to make the seat slide backwards and forwards.
Although variable in design, all fixed-weight machines tend to be easier and safer to use than free weights, because if any weights are dropped they merely fall back into the machine.
Subjects: Medicine and Health.