why does spu nOT HAVE machines?

​At SPU we value the basic needs that occur when training functional fundamental movement patterns. And when we say functional, we mean the way that your body would naturally work in a vertical, horizontal (through pronation/supination) rotational, and stabilizing aspect.  Understanding how the body works fundamentally and applying that knowledge to our training programs is a huge part of what makes us different. All individuals are built differently, so does it make sense to have machines that primarily isolate joint function? Is that the way the body would function in its natural state nevertheless on the field performing?

For those who neglect the functional/fundamental training concept, it will always look normal to them that locking themselves up in a machine to isolate a specific joint during a workout is fine.  For instance, sitting in a leg press machine to work the quads and glutes or laying on the stomach to perform hamstring curls in the machine is not as functional as you would think it is. Rather those vague choices can lead to injuries that you may recollect came from bad exercises. In the real world our joints don’t have all that leeway. The body works in unison which means that all the muscles are passively and actively working together to move us. Whether one is working concentrically while the other does all the eccentric stabilizing work, it all connects. 
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Ultimately, in prioritizing the way we naturally move, we can target what we’re lacking to improve whether in strength or mobility. If you have a core, ankles, or shoulder issue, working out in machines that takes away the function of those body parts won’t get you where you should be when you focus on treating your functional and fundamental needs.

-  Coach Andy Louis