The machines and equipment of today far eclipse just about everything from the old days. Today we have safety, function, adjustability, weight stacks, etc., built into most machines. No wonder not many had hams like just about every champ has today.
You need machines to build calves. Unless you found a big gal who agreed to gain weight as you got stronger so you could do donkey raises.
Machines are the best for triceps and many other body parts. Of course, everyone is an expert on Getbig so I suppose we will have plenty of opinions.
My machines use linear motion bearings and the friction is minimized. We have stainless steel handles for all attachment bars and hand grips.
Things were very basic in those days. We look back and it seems a bit amusing but the Duncan was a well equipped gym.
