If the strength training machines look confusing, giant racks of dumbbells, barbells, plates and more may look even more daunting. The free weight section will usually be close to the machines and you may find a variety of interesting equipment here such as:
- Dumbbells
- Plate loaded barbells
- Fixed-weight barbells
- Flat and incline benches
- Olympic-sized bars
- Weight racks
- Bench press stations
I would also include cable or free-motion machines in the free weight section of the gym, simply because cables don't work on a fixed path, like the machines mentioned above, and are more like free weight exercises since you have to use your own body for balance and support.
If you're not familiar with dumbbell or free weight exercises, you may think this area is for bodybuilders only. But free weights are great for everyone and you'll probably find a variety of exercisers there -- men, women, young, old, bodybuilders or just regular exercisers.
One reason beginners don't always start with free weights is because, unlike machines, there aren't always instructions available for how to use them. If you're not sure what to do, you might want to hire a trainer to get individualized help. You'll also find detailed free weight exercises in exercises for individual muscle groups.
More about Beginner Strength Training.
