Machine Resistance Curve Analysis of Seven Resistance Training Machines Original Research
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Keywords
multi-joint machines, single joint machines, resistance selection
Abstract
Introduction: Resistance training (RT) is not only feasible but also widely recommended across a spectrum of chronic disease contexts as well as for those with functional limitations. Many RT machines incorporate mechanisms that alter the machine’s resistance curve (MRC) in an attempt to match the variable strength of the participant through a resisted ROM (RROM). Several investigations have tested this relationship using weight selections greater than what might be appropriate for targeting low to moderate training intensities. This article presents an analysis of low to moderate RT selections offered by seven RT machines.
Methods: An evaluation of the MRCs of seven RT machines was performed. Three leg extension machines, two chest press machines, and two seated row machines were selected for analysis from three fitness centers in Baltimore, MD and Oklahoma City, OK. The method of analysis is described. The acquired force data were normalized and plotted in order to categorize the MRCs of each machine.
Results: Four of the seven machines offered more than one MRC based on the weight selected.
Conclusions: The selection of resistance on an individual machine might influence targeted factors such as participant effort or achievable RROM.
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Copyright, 2025 by the authors. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Charles McMillin, Concordia University Chicago
Charlie McMillin is a personal trainer and a researcher investigating resistance training interventions with chronic disease populations. Currently he is splitting time between training clients and investigating the feasibility of a resistance training program with cancer patients undergoing proton treatment.
Bridget Melton, Concordia University Chicago and Georgia Southern University
Bridget Melton is a Professor of Exercise Science and Coaching Education at Georgia Southern University and is an adjunct faculty member at Concordia University in Chicago. She teaches a variety of exercise science courses at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, including Introduction to Exercise Science, Practical Applications of Human Movement, Principles of Personal Training, Sport Conditioning, Program Design in Physical Activity and Health, and Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, and Sport Nutrition. Dr. Melton’s research incorporated physical activity promotion, and the most recent research focuses on worksite wellness and tactical athletes.
Nicholas Murray, University of Nevada Reno
Dr. Nicholas (Nic) Murray is an assistant professor in the School of Public Health and director of the Neuromechanics lab at the University of Nevada, Reno. In addition, he is the independent neurological assessor for the University of Nevada, Reno sports medicine, and Washoe County School Districts. His research focuses on the detection, treatment, and long-term effects of sport-related concussion and repetitive head trauma. His unique clinical and research expertise allows him to not only be an important part of a concussion management team but also study the underlying neurological impacts of head trauma.
Chris D'Adamo, University of Maryland Baltimore
Dr. Chris D’Adamo is an epidemiologist with expertise in the impact of exercise, nutrition, dietary supplementation, and other modifiable lifestyle factors on human health. Dr. D’Adamo received his Ph.D. in Epidemiology in from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and is currently an Assistant Professor with dual appointments in the Departments of Family & Community Medicine and Epidemiology & Public Health. He is also the Director of the Center for Integrative Medicine.
Dr. D’Adamo has served as Principal Investigator on a wide variety of clinical trials and observational studies.
He has authored over 60 publications in numerous peer-reviewed scientific and medical journals including Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition, Nutrition Research, American Journal of Health Promotion, Journal of Nutrition, American Journal of Preventive Medicine, Nutrients, Journal of Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics, Journal of Nutrition, Aging, and Health,Journal of the American College of Nutrition, American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, among many others.
Dr. D’Adamo has also contributed medical textbook chapters to the 6th and 7th editions of Rheumatology, the 5th and 6theditions of Practical Management of Pain, and gives invited lectures across the world topics in integrative, functional, and lifestyle medicine.