The Claim

Countermovement jump height does not differ significantly between free-weight training and machine-based training in healthy adults, with a standardized mean difference of -0.209 and a p-value of 0.290, indicating no clear advantage of either modality for developing lower-body power.

Source: Effect of free-weight vs. machine-based strength training on maximal strength, hypertrophy and jump performance – a systematic review and meta-analysis

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
52score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Description
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Whether you lift weights or use machines, your jump height doesn’t change much—so neither one is clearly better for building leg power in healthy adults.

See the scientific wording

Jump performance (countermovement jump height) does not differ significantly between free-weight and machine-based training (SMD: -0.209, p=0.290), suggesting that neither modality provides a clear advantage for developing lower-body power in healthy adults.

What the research says

1 study

  1. Study: Effect of free-weight vs. machine-based strength training on maximal strength, hypertrophy and jump performance – a systematic review and meta-analysis

    This study compared lifting weights with barbells versus using machines and found that both ways improve jumping ability equally — so neither is better than the other for getting stronger in your legs.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.