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Machines are good in that you will learn the "feel" of your muscle being worked. It is very easy to have good form with machines, and if you notice, most of the "trainers" at the 24 Hour Fitness type places dont' bother with free weights when they're teaching somebody a workout for the first time.
Free weights are *great*. IMO, there's nothing like the sensation of overhead presses with a dumbbell behind your head, it's awesome being able to see your tri's working while you do your reps. I'm not aware of a machine that lets you get the same experience.
My personal preference is to start with a machine if it's an excercise I haven't done before, or I'm not 100% sure about the proper form to use. I'll also use machines if I'm without my workout partner and have to go it alone.
Put it this way.. pat yourself on the friggin back just for BEING THERE and doing it!
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