I am taking a PT course in portland right now and the course is based upon the ACSM book. It suggests that if you get a beginner as a client that you make up a program that uses machines.
I was floored when I read that as that is exactly opposite of what I would think. I have only just started to use machines in a hypertrophy program and quite honestly don't see the good in them for anything other than blasting one certain area to death.
I note (for example) that when I do a db 1 legged romainian dead lift that my whole body works and especially stabalizer muscles in the calf as well as the muscles in my lower back and glutes. When I use the ham curl machines I get non of the other muscles firing.
What possible reason do the experts at ACSM have for this recommendation except to reduce injury under the assumption that the trainer cannot teach proper form (I have seen enough of that)? I have class tomorrow and want to go in prepared to discuss this point.