Strength training is a core gym component; the right equipment ensures members get the most out of their workouts. From free weights to selectorized machines, there are countless options to consider. Plate-loaded machines stand out for their ability to target specific muscles with precision and provide a natural range of motion. But not all plate-loaded machines are created equal, and knowing which ones are essential can be a challenge. Explore the plate-loaded machines every gym must have.
What is Plate Loaded Equipment?
Plate-loaded equipment refers to gym machines that require users to load weight plates onto them for resistance. This differs from selectorized machines that operate with a fixed weight stack and pin adjustments. They’re also different from free weights since the machine controls the motion.
Additionally, plate-loaded machines often have independent arms or levers, making them ideal for unilateral exercises that target one side of the body at a time. Since the resistance depends on the amount of weight loaded, each person can customize it according to their strength level.
Best Plate Loaded Equipment for Gyms
Buying the right plate-loaded gear for your fitness center can be complicated, even when you break it down into categories such as plate-loaded equipment. There is no single “best” piece of plate-loaded equipment that every gym should have. What you choose depends on the specific needs of your members and the type of training you offer. However, you should have numerous machines to target most, if not all, muscle groups.
Some essential pieces of plate-loaded equipment that can benefit people of all fitness levels include:
Chest Press
Activating the chest muscles can be challenging since, unlike arm or leg muscles, most everyday tasks don’t challenge this bodily area. With a plate-loaded chest press, gym goers can place their feet on the ground and push forward with both arms for an effective chest workout. Unlike free weights, the chest press offers guided movement paths, reducing the risk of improper form.
To maximize efficiency, users should position their hands correctly on the handles and adjust the seat so that the handles align with their chest. You can ensure people use proper form by having a gym employee walk the floor and correct members as needed.
Shoulder Press
While a chest press does work the shoulder muscles, it doesn’t fully engage them in the way a shoulder press will. When placing a shoulder press in your gym, consider TRUE Fitness’ PLS-200, which allows the arms to remain above shoulder level as you press forward. This position increases activation and allows for a more natural range of motion.
Lat Pulldown
The lat pulldown is indispensable for developing the broadest muscles in the back, the latissimus dorsi. During the pulling motion, it also activates the biceps and forearms as secondary muscles.
Users can target specific upper back muscles by adding heavier plates to the machine, such as the rhomboids and traps. This is a must-have for anyone looking to improve their posture, reduce back pain, or increase overall strength in their upper body.
Seated Row
A plate-loaded seated row differs from a rowing machine in terms of look but works the same muscles in the arms, back, and chest. However, members can isolate specific muscles with a seated row by adjusting the machine’s position or grip.
Ab Crunch
The ab crunch machine focuses on core muscles, particularly the rectus abdominis. Strengthening these muscles is crucial in improving posture, stability, and overall functional fitness. Unlike floor exercises, this machine allows for adjustable resistance to increase the challenge progressively.
When using the ab crunch, the individual will sit upright and use their feet to push on a footpad to push the weight forward. This movement works upper and lower abdominal muscles and, with slight variations, can also target obliques, serratus anterior, and hip flexors.
Gym Set-Up Tip
Depending on the size of your gym, you can place the ab crunch machine beside other strength training gear or in a section dedicated to abs. The right layout allows users to plan a full-body or muscle-specific workout.
Biceps Curl
A bicep curl machine is another plate-loaded machine that every gym must have so users can isolate and develop the biceps without relying on momentum or form compromise. This machine offers more targeted stimulation than dumbbells or barbells, and it is also easier to adjust for proper alignment.
To avoid injury, gym goers should keep their elbows close to the body while curling the handles toward the shoulders. Controlled motion is essential, as rushing through reps reduces effectiveness.
Squat Press
A squat press allows members to make a similar motion to traditional squats but offers more support, which makes it easier to add weighted resistance. This plate-loaded machine is highly effective for targeting the quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. Its guided path ensures safety, making it accessible to a wider range of trainees.
To use the squat press correctly, users should align their feet shoulder-width apart on the platform and maintain a controlled pace during the descent and ascent.
Standing Leg Curl
The standing leg curl machine is another essential equipment for targeting the hamstrings and improving knee health. Since it involves standing instead of lying on a bench, this machine better mimics real-life movements, such as walking or running. Plus, it allows users to work each leg individually, correcting strength imbalances.
Leg Extensions
Leg extensions are an ideal complement to leg curls since they work the quadriceps, strengthening knee muscles. With plate-loaded leg extension machines, users sit with their legs extended and curl downward and unbend them to move the weighted bar. This exercise is highly effective for improving athletic performance and preventing injuries.
Invest in the Best
Plate-loaded machines offer a variety of exercises without sacrificing safety or proper form. When selecting which ones to include in your setup, consider your members’ needs and fitness goals and ensure you have options that target all major muscle groups.
TRUE Fitness has plate-loaded strength training machines to work all areas of the body. Contact us to learn more about our commercial equipment and how we can help set up your fitness center for success. By providing quality strength training equipment, you can create a well-rounded workout environment that caters to individuals of all abilities and levels.