While different gyms will have a variety of machines, there are some gym machines that are fairly consistent amongst most gyms and health clubs.  Get acquainted with these and you will have a jump start when you begin your exercise program.  Don’t forget to also check out the Lower Body Gym Machines Guide.

Arms:

Bicep Curl Machine

Bicep Curl Machines come in many varieties.  Pictured above are the two most common.  The machine above mimics traditional preacher curls while the gym machine below is a seated version that works your biceps in a slightly different manner, which makes both types important to incorporate into your gym workouts.

Seated Bicep Curl Machine

Tricep Press Machine

Tricep Extension Machine

While most arm exercises are eventually more effective with the use of free weights and dumbbells so that the stabilizer muscles can be better worked, the gym machines geared towards your arms are a great way to get started and incorporate along with the free weight exercises.

The gym machine on the left is a seated Tricep Press Machine.  There are variations on the incline of the seat, but the exercise remains the same.  On the right is a Tricep Extension Machine.  You will occasionally find this machine combined with a bicep curl machine since they are reciprocal of one another.  The triceps are often neglected in favor of being able to show off a big bicep, but doing these exercises in tandem can result in a more even looking arm build.

Back/Chest/Shoulders:

Chest Press Machine

Bench presses can be dangerous to do on your own, but a perfect alternative is the Chest Press Machine.  Be sure to focus on your pectoral muscles while doing your reps.  A common mistake people make is to use other muscles such as their biceps instead of using the muscles in their chest.

Chest Fly Machine

Another common gym machine that helps build your pecs is the Chest Fly Machine.  This exercise focuses more on the perimeter of the chest area to aid in better sculpting and toning of the chest.

Shoulder Press Machine

The Shoulder Press Machine is the single most effective machine for building the muscles in your shoulder.

Lat Pulldown Machine

The Lat Pulldown Machine is extremely effective and my favorite of the upper body gym machine guide.  It targets the shoulders, your upper back and your lats (the area below your armpits).  Sculpting this area can help to make sure you look your best.

Back Row Machine

One of the best exercises for your upper back is rowing a boat.  The Back Row Machine mimics that movement and creates a terrific workout for your upper back.

Back Extension Machine

To work that lower back, there is the Back Extension Machine.  The movement is essentially the opposite of a sit up.  I usually do this exercise last in my gym workout s because it is also a great stretch for the entire spine which feels wonderful at the end of a hard workout session.

Don’t forget to work your lower body as well!