When you're designing your bodybuilding or weight training program, understanding the different types of resistance that various machines and equipments provide can help you fine-tune your efforts. Since you want to train different muscle groups during each session of your workout, you'll want to use a variety of free weights, resistance bands, and isolateral machines to develop your core muscle groups and get the most out each workout. Here's a brief overview of the different methods of resistance you can choose from when you're building your weight training program:

Isolateral machines: These machines are designed to isolate certain muscle groups so you're only able to flex and extend an individual muscle at any given time. According to David Sandler, author of the book "Weight Training Fundamentals," these machines allow you to develop weaker muscle groups (e.g. arms, legs or lower back) that you wouldn't otherwise be able to target with standard lifting machines. However, it's important to keep in mind that these machines do not allow you to develop core muscle groups on their own.

Exercise using dumbbells. A dumbbell is an ubiquitous tool for most bodybuilders and athletes. These help one acquire balance while giving focus to stabilizer muscles. Another benefit of using dumbbells is the ease it brings in changing to heavier weights. Dumbbells are a good companion for basic exercise routines such as bicep curls and squats. Aside from increasing chances of development of weaker arm and leg muscles individually, dumbbells also allow each muscle groups to be isolated as the need may be. Get the results you want by exercising good form with these weights and taking time to focus or concentrate.

Resistance bands: If you don't have access to a gym or fitness center, resistance bands are a great training tool that can help you maintain your strength. Resistance bands help you use your own body weight for resistance and can be used to stretch and strengthen muscles in the arms, back, shoulders and legs. However, it's tough to measure the actual weight you're working with, so these should only be used as a short-term substitute for actual weights.

Isokinetic machines: When you're looking for a way to exert your muscles to their fullest potential, an isokinetic machine can help. These machines are designed to push your muscles through their entire range of motion at a very specific speed; they are commonly used by well-trained bodybuilders to build muscle size and strength, and can be too intensive for the beginning bodybuilder.

Exercise using free weights. Achieve balance in your weight training exercise and find a way to practice good form with free weights. First time bodybuilders can become more familiar with new routines and enhance muscles as a preparation for intensive workouts with the use of these weights. However, there is one limitation to using free weights. Although done on a regular basis, it may be quite hard to isolate some muscle groups in the body at a short time. Performing isolated movements may also be possible but it can take some time and achieving results may requires constant practice and use of various weights.

If you have liked reading this article, you can read more posts on fitness nutrition, and other topics like exercise, working out, wellness programs, and finding the best body building supplement on our fitness blog.