Beginner-friendly guides for machines commonly found at Planet Fitness and other gyms. Learn proper form and safety tips for each machine.
Chest Press Machine
Primary: Chest
Incline Chest Press Machine
Primary: Chest-upper
Pec Fly / Pec Deck Machine
Primary: Chest
Lat Pulldown Machine
Primary: Lats, Back
Seated Cable Row Machine
Primary: Back, Lats
Assisted Pull-up Machine
Primary: Lats, Back
Back Extension Machine
Primary: Lower-back, Erectors
Shoulder Press Machine
Primary: Shoulders, Deltoids
Lateral Raise Machine
Primary: Shoulders, Side-deltoids
Leg Press Machine
Primary: Quadriceps, Glutes
Leg Extension Machine
Primary: Quadriceps
Leg Curl Machine (Lying or Seated)
Primary: Hamstrings
Hip Abductor Machine
Primary: Hip-abductors, Glutes
Hip Adductor Machine
Primary: Hip-adductors, Inner-thigh
Calf Raise Machine
Primary: Calves, Gastrocnemius
Bicep Curl Machine
Primary: Biceps
Tricep Extension Machine
Primary: Triceps
Ab Crunch Machine
Primary: Abs, Rectus-abdominis
Cable Machine (Adjustable)
Primary: Various
Treadmill
Primary: Cardiovascular, Legs
Elliptical Machine
Primary: Cardiovascular, Legs
Stationary Bike
Primary: Cardiovascular, Legs
Rowing Machine
Primary: Cardiovascular, Back, Legs
Stair Climber / Stairmaster
Primary: Cardiovascular, Legs, Glutes
Cardio Machine (Your Choice)
Primary: Cardiovascular