I own my own business which is in-home personal training although I also have worked in a gym setting in the past and I can see the points of both free weights and a fixed machine such as the bowflex.

Actually, in the beginning stages of exericise, if you aren't going to hire a professional (gotta stick those plugs in ), it's often better to start with a fixed plane machine simply because starting with free weights and functional fitness movements, without assessments will probably cause you to use the same improper muscular movements that you use in your everyday life. I have watched way too many people who have muscular imbalances try to do free weight programs that exacerbate any "issues" they have which result in injury.

If you feel pretty confident that you currently don't suffer any pains that probably result from muscular imbalances, and you have a good knowledge of how to move weight in a plane that will strengthen the areas you need strengthening...then go immediately to free weights. Otherwise, machines that keep you in a fairly reasonable plane of motion might be your option. (I like Bowflex simply because they force the client to use their core and stabilizing muscles because of the action of the "rods")*

I stress the fact that most people today (even us cyclists) work at professions that cause us to stay seated, in a forward protracted position, and then we drive home, in the same position, and then we ride our bikes, in the same forward protracted position, and watch tv in the same position....well, it causes some faulty movement patterns. So, sometimes it's worth it to seek professional advice, and other times, to use a machine that won't add to any issues you may already have.

*No, I don't work for Bowflex, but I have used their equipment...free weights included and I think they're excellent.