Hey all,

Primarily for my chest I use a pecdec. Now the gym I go two has two seperate types of pecdecs.

The first has the pads for your forearms. Here is an example (http://exrx.net/WeightExercises/PectoralSternal/LVPecDeckFly.html) It causes your arms to come closer together. I can really feel this exercise in my chest, but the motion does feel totally natural, I think do to me being a larger guy. (hehe, not muscle larger :) )

The other machine just has handles you grab, here is an example (http://exrx.net/WeightExercises/PectoralSternal/LVSeatedFly.html) . When using this machine my elbows stick out, creating a 90 degree angle forearm to upper arm. This machine feels good on my chest, and feels natural but I'm concerned that I am not working my chest fully. Mainly because of the large increase in distance between my elbows, I'm not moving the weight as far as I am with pecdec machine one.

Should I go with the first machine? It doesn't feel "natural" now but I may not be used to it, no pain whatsoever when using this machine mind you. Should I go with the second? I can lift heavier weight, I can feel it in the chest, it feels natural, and I shouldn't be concerned with the distance I'm not pushing.

Or, should I do something different?

I would appreciate any feedback you guys have.

Both are good and you should alternate them each chest day.
The first one you should be able to handle more weight, the second one will hit the inside of your pecs better. :tu:
Keep the reps slow and controlled.

I alternate if one is taken, I prefer the second one.

I prefer the handle type one. I'm a smaller guy, so I get a great ROM on it and really feel it inside my chest. The other one is a little more difficult for me to use, as it's built for someone larger.

Both are good and you should alternate them each chest day.
The first one you should be able to handle more weight, the second one will hit the inside of your pecs better. :tu:
Keep the reps slow and controlled.

In my early years of training I used a pec - deck with the forearm pads. It worked pretty well. From what I understand, the handle equipped machines can really tear up your rotater cuffs. I'd be careful.