You’re not more “functional” for avoiding machines. You’re just neglecting a tool. Isolation doesn’t mean irrelevant. Fixed paths don’t mean ineffective. Machines offer control, consistency, and a low-fatigue way to target tissue, especially when you’re managing joint stress,

working hypertrophy or returning from injury. Watch any elite sprinter or footballer train. You’ll see machines. Again, that’s not the reason they are helpful, nor should it be the bulk of your program, but they can play a role!

Smart training isn’t anti-machine. It’s anti-dogma. My new speed ebook is almost done. It’s the longest and most detailed one I’ve written yet. In the meantime, all current speed programs are on sale.

Seated knee extension grows rec fem which is a hip flexor. Squats and leg press don't. Thus ske can be very useful!

Right on.

More useful for the more advanced lifter that has to more carefully control stress levels to keep going. The objectively weak that are just getting started need to simply get under the bar and lift heavy.