Use a Decline Bench for Free Weight Exercises

There are many possible weight lifting exercises that you can do to improve your strength and increase your muscle tone.   As a rule, I prefer free weights over machine exercises because machines limit you to one plan of motion.  By contrast, free weights force you to use stabilizing muscles which tends to improve tone.

Further, there is a bit of  a fear factor with free weights  – you know that if you drop them you could embarass yourself, hurt yourself or your workout partner.  In my experience, you are much more attuned to your limits when you use free weights.

I find that I get a lot out of decline bench workouts.  A decline bench is like a regular weight bench except that the head of the bench sits at a 45 degree angle – in other words, your head and arms are inclined below your feet.  For me, this type of workout fits my body type and I feel that it puts less stress on my shoulder joints.

At some point, I will do my own video, but for now, here is an example of a decline bench exercise that is done effectively.  You can use a barbell, dumbbells, or kettlebells with a decline bench.

You can find other examples of decline bench exercises on YouTube although many of them feature blaring music and gym rats who are lifting 400 lbs.  You don't need a lot of weight – lift what you can do comfortably and handle 10 to 15 reps for 3 sets before you move up in weight.