Strength training is a core component of fitness, and it can be accomplished in a number of ways. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, here are several reasons weight machines might be a good option for you.

You need to learn proper form.

When properly set up, weight machines keep your body aligned throughout the exercise. Machines can also be adjusted to help you increase range of motion without risking that you move beyond what is safe for your flexibility. When starting out, take advantage of tours and consultations with fitness staff. They are there to show you how to set up machines for your specific needs to keep you safe and make your workout more effective.

You want consistency in your training.

Seat and lever adjustments on machines are easy to track. You can make notes on the adjustment settings so that each time you workout you know that the equipment is set-up correctly for a consistent session. This allows you to focus on gradual weight increases knowing that you are performing the exercise in the same way from one session to the next.

You need small increases in weight.

The key to building muscle strength is a gradual increase in the amount of weight you lift. As you continue to challenge the muscles they will grow stronger. With free weights, you may be forced to increase your weight by five pounds when you move to the next set of available weights. Depending on your exercise level, a jump in that amount of weight may be too challenging. Many weight machines have attachments that can be placed on the weight stack that allows you to increase your resistance by only a pound or two at a time. This more gradual approach may be a better fit for you and your progress.

You exercise alone.

As you increase strength, the amount of weight you lift will increase too. When working with free weights, lifting heavy weights requires a spotter to help coach you through your movement and assist if you should get stuck lifting a weight. If you want to lift heavier weights and can’t find a spotter, machines are a safer option.

Lori Rice, M.S., is a nutritional scientist and author with a passion for healthy cooking, exercise physiology, and food photography.