The best functional trainer should combine both price, stability, and functionality. Functional trainers have risen in popularity over the last several years because of their ability to perform a wide range of exercises such as Push-ups, jump squats, jumping jacks, walking lunges, and fast-twitch muscle fibers.
While it isn’t the most compact piece in your workout arsenal, a good functional trainer allows you to complete several movements, and if you invest in a great quality piece, there’s a chance that it’ll be the last home gym you will ever have to buy.
In this round-up, we swear by the durability and versatility of the XMARK Functional Trainer, which features a dual weight stack of 200 lbs. extra resistance on each side and is great for both beginner and heavyweight lifters. It also comes with a number of accessories that provide a full-body workout in one package. Let’s get to the full review.
Best Functional Trainers at a Glance
Great overall build equipped with up to 400 lbs. Double weight stacks and seamless pulley system with essential accessories for a total body workout and thoughtful dimensions with your gym space in mind.
Features a minimalist single 190 lbs. Weight stack and an uninterrupted and adjustable pulley that can swivel 180 degrees for a versatile functionality.
Inspire fitness FT1 is one of the few fully compact functional trainers in the market. It is best for use in small spaces as it measures 47 * 54 * 81.5 inches.”
XMARK Functional Trainer – Best Overall
What we like
- It comes with several attachments for versatile exercises
- Space-saving with high-quality construction
- Allows for iso lateral-based exercises for targeted muscle groups
- Quick adjustability for every user
What we don’t like
- Assembly instructions are a bit complicated for first time user
- Expensive
If you are looking for versatile full-body workout equipment, you should consider the X Mark functional trainer. It is versatile because it can be used by all family members ranging from young to old and short to tall.
It is also one of the best heavy-duty functional trainers because it is made from an 11 gauge 2 x 3-inch steel frame. The steel frame gives it a solid build making it suitable for commercial grade gym equipment.
Dimensions, Weight, and Warranty
The XMARK functional trainer weighs 247 lb and has a dimension of 35.5 * 71 * 84 inches. However, when you buy this fitness equipment for the first time, expect it to weigh around 807 lbs.
This cable machine comes with a lifetime frame warranty and a 1-year warranty on hardware and moving parts.
Functional Features
This Xmark functional trainer has a dual 200 lb weight stack with an adjustable pulley. The adjustable pulleys have 19 setting levels, with each level spaced 3.5 inches from the other.
The adjustable pulleys pop into place due to a pop-pin lock mechanism that increases the safety level of this functional fitness trainer. In addition, it can accommodate the needs of different users because the pulley has different setting levels ranging from 1 to 6.6 inches.
This commercial-grade equipment includes several accessories such as an ankle strap, an ankle cuff, a 42” long bar, 8” hand straps, and 17” long strap handles.
Other accessories include a 23” tricep rope and a short bar. These cable machines have a standard stack to resistance ratio of 2:1. This ratio enables the machine to provide iso lateral-based movements, making it possible for the user to perform pull-ups and other muscle targeting exercises.
We also liked that it has a split grip pull-up bar that enables users to perform a wide range of exercises such as chin-ups and pull-ups.
Built to withstand vigorous training, will last you a long time, and purchase includes useful attachments for various workouts. Easily our favorite in this roundup that is worth your money.
Body-Solid BFFT10R Functional Trainer & Cable Machine – Best Budget
What we like
- Compact in size
- Easy to assemble because with a step-by-step video guide
- With a wide range of motion and adjustable pulleys
- Most affordable quality trainer
What we don’t like
- It has a short cable which gives people with long arms a limited range
- Single weight stack for an average resistance
We like that this functional fitness trainer enables you to add more weight to intensify your workouts efficiently. However, Keep in mind that adding more weight is not officially supported by the manufacturer, and that is why you have to be creative about it.
This home gym machine is easy to assemble, has a sturdy build, a single-weight stack of 190 pounds, and a pull-up bar.
Dimensions, Weight, and Warranty
It has a Dimension of 55 * 84 * 61 inches. It weighs 177.81 kilograms and is designed for people with a maximum weight capacity of 330 pounds. In addition, this equipment has a 3-year frame warranty.
Functional Features
This functional trainer comes with a single 190 lb weight stack and an easy-to-adjust pulley system. Users can vertically adjust the pulley system 19 times, making it convenient to use.
We also like that this functional trainer is designed with an integrated straight chin-up bar. The integrated vertical chin-up bar comes in handy when you do different exercises such as pull-ups, chin-ups, and general exercises requiring multiple grip positions.
Another thing that we liked about these functional trainers is that it has a no cable change design. Unlike other trainers in the market, you can easily change from one exercise to another without adjusting the equipment. Really a great investment for its affordable price.
Inspire Fitness FT1 Functional Trainer – Best for Small Spaces
What we like
- It has more than 30 pulley positions on each side
- Best for small spaces
- Several accessories included
- It comes with a sports handle exercise booklet
What we don’t like
- Might be too narrow for users with larger build and longer arms.
This functional trainer is built to be set up in a corner and accommodate as little space as possible. The FT1 is similar to the FT2 version, differing only in price and size.
Dimensions, Weight, and Warranty
The Inspire Fitness FT1 functional trainer Is a black functional trainer that weighs just under 1 kg. This fitness equipment has a dimension of 54.02 * 45.98 * 82.99 inches.
Inspire Fitness FT1 offers a limited lifetime warranty on frames and parts and a 10-year limited warranty on parts if the equipment is used in commercial gyms.
Functional Features
This Inspire Fitness equipment boasts of being one of the most compact, functional trainers in the market. It has two weight stacks on each side, each weighing 165 pounds. The weight stacks are designed to accommodate incremental weights of 10lb.
The user will have to add 5 lbs on each weight stack. It is also important to note that this functional trainer has a cable weight ratio of 2:1.
For added safety, it is equipped with a magnetic weight pin inserted into the drilled holes found on the weight stacks.
When buying this light commercial equipment, expect to find accessories such as a tricep rope, a multifunctional belt, 2- D handles, a sports handle exercise booklet and an EZ Curl Bar.
Optional add-ons that you can find include a bench, an AB bar, and a cable designed with a tensile strength of 2000 pounds.
Each pulley can be used in 30 different vertical positions. In addition, the pulley can swivel 180 degrees. As a result, you can do a wide range of exercises with relative ease.
All in all, users can use this equipment for exercising a wide range of muscle groups simultaneously.
HCI Fitness PTX Gym Functional Trainer – Best Foldable
What we like
- Reduces up to 60% of its volume when folded
- Equipped with a fold-up bench
- Weight stacks can be converted to free weights
- Each swivel pulley has 12 vertical positions
What we don’t like
- Not suitable for use by heavy lifters because of its low weight capacity
- Might be uncomfortable to use for taller users
One of the best features of the HCI Fitness PTX Functional Trainer is that it is compact and foldable, reducing up to 60% of its volume. Great for small apartments. It also comes with a bench and weight stacks making it one of the most thoughtfully designed trainers in the market. No other like it.
Dimensions, Weight, and Warranty
When you buy these functional trainers, they will have a package dimension of 77.56 * 24.61 * 21.65 inches. In addition, the entire package will weigh 432.1 lb.
This functional fitness trainer has 20 * 24 * 73 inches of space-efficient design dimensions. When this home gym device is used, it will spread out by 51”.
We were impressed that this cable machine has a lifetime frame warranty and a 5-year warranty on welds and wear items.
Functional Features
This functional trainer cable machine has a combined actual weight stack of 220lbs. It is important to note that the weight stacks can be converted into free weights that can be used to complement your exercises.
This home gym device has a pulley system with seven adjustment positions to facilitate people of different heights. We also like that this equipment comes with a wide range of accessories such as an ankle strap, 2 D-ring hand grips, a 12” straight bar, a 20” straight bar, and tricep ropes.
Apart from the heavy-duty steel material, this functional trainer boasts a stylish mesh cover with a gray powder finish.
It is also important to note that though this is a 200 lbs weight equipment, the user can convert the weight stack to 20 individual 10 lbs weights. This enables the user to increase or decrease the intensity of their workouts with ease.
Body-Solid Powerline PCCO90X Cable Crossover Machine – Best for Tall Users
What we like
- Ideal for tall users
- Uses Olympic weight plates
- Easy to set up
- Affordable
What we don’t like
- It has no built-in weight stack
- May wiggle forward when doing chest fly exercises
If you are looking for a functional crossover machine, consider the PCC090X. Compared to other functional trainers on this list, this is wider and taller.
It is a piece of versatile equipment that makes it possible for the user to do a wide range of exercises thanks to its coordination-enhancing workouts.
These functional trainers are designed to improve resistance and target different muscle groups in the body, such as the Abs, pectorals, triceps, and biceps.
Dimensions, Weight, and Warranty
This cable crossover machine has a dimension of 82 * 18 * 9” and a weight of 232 pounds.
Functional Features
These functional trainers have a sturdy construction that consists of an extra-wide tall mainframe.
The extra-wide tall frame makes it possible to perform a wide range of low and high pulley exercises. You can also do chin-ups because it comes with an optional chin-up station and an OA8/OAS14 Olympic sleeve adapter.
We were impressed that this has a smooth operation, unlike most functional trainers in the market. The smooth operation is made possible because of a patented nylon bushing technology that uses sealed ball bearings that minimize friction.
To increase the cable life of this functional trainer, the manufacturer incorporated eight large-diameter high resin pulleys.
The high resin pulleys can swivel 180 degrees making it possible to do chest crossover exercises, tricep extension, and standing bicep curls.
It also has low resin pulleys that can also swivel 180 degrees. The low pulleys make it possible to do several exercises such as hip adduction, hip abduction, standing bicep curls, and lateral raises.
When you buy the Body-Solid Functional Trainer, expect it to have accessories such as one ankle strap and two cable handles.
ER KANG Olympic Power Cage – Best for Resistance Training
What we like
- Ideal for heavy users because it has a weight capacity of 1400lbs
- Comes with several attachments, including the pulldown cable, standard barbell, and Olympic weight plate holder
- Versatile with several workout features
- Commercial quality and can carry up to 1400 lbs.
What we don’t like
- Assembling can be a bit challenging
- Above average price point
This multifunction machine is best for resistance training because it strengthens different muscle groups in the body and has upgraded accessories such as a sliding pulley and a safety catch. It can hold an impressive weight capacity of 1400 lbs.
Other accessories that come with this garage gym equipment are; push-up straps, two chains, an assisted pull-up strap, a short bar, and a built-in multi-grip chin-up bar.
Dimensions, Weight, and Warranty
This commercial exercise equipment has a dimension of 82* 57*47 inches, and the shipping weight is around 1000lbs.
The manufacturer offers a frame warranty of 10 years if used for light commercial purposes and a lifetime warranty for home use.
Functional Features
This commercial gym equipment is made from an 80mm * 40 mm commercial steel square tube. The steel square tube enables the equipment to withstand weights of up to 1400lbs.
This equipment also has 15 adjustable height options, making it ideal for people of different height sizes. At the same time, the adjustable-height options make it possible for one to do a wide range of exercises.
This Olympic power cage machine comes with several useful attachments: a J-hook, Dip bars, Cable bars, a T bar, a lat pulldown bar, and cable handle attachments. It is also important to note that this machine has an extra Olympic standard barbell and weight holders.
FreeMotion Dual Cable EXT Crossover – Best Splurge
What we like
- 3lb weight increments can be added at a time which is great for beginners
- Great for balance, stability, and coordination training
- 10-year warranty and durable 11-gauge steel tubing and is electrostatically powder-coated
- Total free motion for a full-body workout
What we don’t like
- Heavy to move around at 925 pounds
- Expensive
This quality functional trainer is a piece of state-of-the-art equipment constructed using a 7 and 11 gauge steel tube. This 11 gauge steel tube makes this functional trainer durable and versatile.
We also like that it is electrostatically powder-coated, making this garage gym resilient and reliable.
It also has two real-like arms that rotate freely in space. The rotating arms have swivel pulleys at the tip that rotate in any direction. The user can easily adjust the arms to accommodate different types of users, making it one of the most adjustable functional trainers in the market today.
Dimensions, Weight, and Warranty
This dual cable cross trainer has a dimension of 60 x 113 x 84 H. It weighs 997 pounds and has a weight stack configuration of {3} 70 x 3.3lbs. We also like the fact that if you receive your order with broken or defective parts, the manufacturer will ship new replacement parts at no additional costs on your end.
It is important to note that all ship parts will be shipped for free to your door. All in all, this functional trainer has a lifetime frame warranty and a 10-year warranty on parts.
In addition, parts such as cables and labor costs have a 90-day warranty period.
Functional Features
This functional training equipment has a sturdy build made from an 11 gauge steel tube. The frame can support users with a maximum weight of 350 lbs.
We like that the arms of this functional training equipment are counterbalanced for better positioning. Another feature that we like about this equipment is that it can perform a wide range of strength exercises such as golf and sports exercises.
The FreeMotion Dual Cable EXT also has some safety features worth mentioning. One main feature is a velcro padded ankle cuff that ensures secure placement and also makes the equipment comfortable to use. This machine is indeed costly but it delivers what it promises.
REP FITNESS FT-5000 Multi-Grip Functional Trainer Cable Machine – Best for Commercial Use
What we like
- 220 lbs. weight stack on each side
- Professional grade finish because it is laser cut and has an electrostatic powder coating for chip resistance
- Smooth fiberglass reinforced pulleys for a fluid system
- 16 selectable cable positionsc
What we don’t like
- Complicated to set up
- Difficult to move around at a total of 1000 lbs. when assembled
The Rep Fitness FT-5000 is one of the best commercial gym trainers in the market. This is because it has a stable solid build, made from an 11 gauge steel frame.
This commercial-grade equipment is laser cut to perfection and welded to create a super clean-looking kit. We like that every bolt head is capped, enhancing the overall appearance.
In addition, it has two layers of electrostatic powder coating which makes it chip resistant.
Dimensions, Weight, and Warranty
The FT-5000 functional trainer has a dimension of 84 * 72 * 45. In terms of weight, the machine weighs 561 lbs, and the weight stacks weigh around 440 lbs. In total, the entire machine will weigh about 1000 lbs.
The maximum effective weight per side is around 104 lbs, and the minimum effective load per side is approximately 12 lbs.
It is also important to note that the cable has a maximum travel distance of 81 inches. Also, the highest point of the handle is 52 inches.
The manufacturer offers a comprehensive lifetime frame warranty. The warranty will be valid for only one year for other parts such as the hardware, pulleys, cables, and Pop pins.
Functional Features
The FT-5000 functional trainer has two upgraded weight stacks measuring around 220 lb. The weight stacks have a moving to effort ratio of 2:1.
These functional trainers are of solid build with a premium cable pulley system that is more robust than its competitors. The premium cable pulley gives the machine a smooth feel when used.
One main feature worth mentioning is that this Rep Fitness model includes an exercise guide which comes in handy for beginners.
It is also designed with six hooks to hang additional adjustments on. As a result, users benefit from 16 cable positions and perform a wide range of exercises thanks to a multiple pull-up grip feature.
IRON COMPANY BodyCraft HFT Functional Trainer – Best Adjustability
What we like
- Dual weight stacks
- Fully adjustable and smooth gliding pulley that operate independently
- Great for limited spaces with a width of 55”
- Affordable and with a comprehensive lifetime warranty for both the frame and parts
What we don’t like
- Weight plates have increments of 10 lbs.
- Might be narrow for users with broad bodies
One of the classic favorites among fitness enthusiasts, the BodyCraft HT is a solid piece with great adjustability for every user. The purchase features seven attachments for a variety of full-body workouts and at a very competitive price range compared to its contemporaries.
Dimensions, Weight, and Warranty
These functional trainers are constructed with heavy gauge steel tubes and heavy plate steel. This makes it durable and robust enough to handle intense workout programs.
It has a dimension of 56 * 40 * 82”. The heavy-duty 11 gauge oval steel tube used to make this equipment has a size of 3.25 x 1.75”, and pulleys have a diameter of 3.5”.
Iron Bodycraft has dual weight stacks of 150 lb, and the user can upgrade each weight stack to 200lbs.
This compact, functional trainer has two types of warranties; residential and light commercial. If you plan to use it for residential purposes, you will have a lifetime warranty for both the frame and parts.
If you’re going to use these functional trainers for commercial purposes, you will have a 10-year frame warranty and a two-year warranty on parts.
Functional Features
The Iron Bodycraft HFT trainer is a compact garage gym made from an oval steel tube and heavy steel plate. It has a long-lasting finish of gray platinum coating.
We like that these functional trainers come with various accessories ranging from exercise books, bar handles, and a DVD. Other additions include 2-single handles, chains, a tricep rope, an ankle cuff, a short bar, and a nylon strap.
Another thing that we liked about this trainer is that it has dual independent adjustable cable pulleys. This means that two people can use it at the same time.
In addition, the fully adjustable cable pulley can accommodate 31 height positions and can also rotate 180 degrees. It is important to note that this trainer boasts of having one of the most flexible nylon coated cable pulleys in the market. The cables have a rating of over 2000lbs in tensile strength.
Inspire Fitness FT2 Functional Trainer – Best Multifunction
What we like
- With eight pulleys, each features 32 vertical positions and swivels 180 degrees
- Comes with a smith that features a weight multiplier that doubles the resistance to 1:1
- Lots of accessories included
- Multifunction features for a great number of exercise
What we don’t like
- Expensive
- Not easy to assemble
If you are looking for a commercial-grade body workout fitness trainer with a sheer number of exercises in just one station, consider this Inspire fitness FT2 Trainer.
Dimensions, Weight, and Warranty
The inspire fitness FT2 full-body workout machine has a dimension of 58 * 61 * 88 inches. As an item package, it will have a size of 85.83 x 29.92 * 12.2 inches.
Unlike other rep fitness trainers in the market, the inspire FT2 trainer is easy to carry because it weighs around 825 lbs.
When we reviewed the warranty, we liked that it came with a limited lifetime warranty on parts and a limited lifetime warranty for the frame. If you decide to use it for commercial purposes, it will have a 10-year frame warranty.
Functional Features
The FT2 is designed specifically for home gyms. It is a one-of-a-kind functional trainer with several free weight equipment such as a pull-up bar, dual weight stacks, six pulleys, and a smith bar.
The equipment is equipped with two upper pulleys, four lower pulleys, two upgradeable free weights, a selectorized smith bar, a complete accessory kit, and a pull-up bar.
We liked this functional trainer because the user does not need to load or unload Olympic plates. After all, it has a selectorized smith bar. If you want to change the plate, all you have to do is to move the pins until you achieve the required weight.
It has dual 165 lbs weight stacks that can be upgraded using additional weight plates of 50lbs each. The additional weight plates can only be purchased if you upgrade the equipment.
Final Verdict
For this roundup article, it is clear that the XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine carries the day. Its dual-stack has a combined weight of up to 400 lbs. of extra resistance that is hard to outgrow. The purchase comes with several attachments and the pulleys are fully adjustable that provide everything you need for a versatile workout.
We also like the BodyCraft HFT Functional Trainer for its solid build and smooth-glide pulleys that operate independently and its extensively adjustable cable column height positions with a 180-degree motion for optimum training.
The concept of a good quality functional trainer is pretty simple-to provide you with a compact all-in-one machine with multi-plane movements that allow you to hit every muscle group at any angle and motion while keeping your muscles at continuous motion. Consider this list and their best categories so you can achieve the ideal equipment for your home gym.
What To Look For In A Functional Trainer
Functionality
Although they are often called Functional Trainers, not all these machines live up to their names. Ideally, a complete functional trainer includes a smith machine, adjustable dual cables, landmine attachment, chin-up bar, J-hooks & spotter arms, and storage for attachments to give you options in targeting a specific muscle group or compound exercises.
But always consider your training and fitness goals. The best machine is the one that works and provides you with the type of exercises that match your exact needs.
Weight Stacks
For an optimum workout, opt for a machine with two independent weight stacks. A 2-weight stack system will allow each side of your body to function independently, even out imbalances. Also, it should be easy to add more weight to intensify your workouts at will.
Ease of Use
Functional trainer cable machine should be easy to use. Keep in mind that one machine might run smoothly for one person and a bit rough for another person. For this reason, we advise that before you buy, test the weight stack rods, the pulleys, and the pull-up bars. Always remember, the smoother the machine, the more resistance you get.
Durability, Adjustability, Cable, and Pulleys
A perfect functional trainer should be fully adjustable and have long pulleys to perform various exercises such as weighted sprints and power lunges.
Also, you should make sure that the functional trainer you buy has various height adjustment levels, as this will help you avoid muscle strains. Consider machines with sealed bearing pulleys for smooth and responsive cable movement. Flexible PVC rubber-coated cables with high tensile strength of up to 2000 pounds are a great plus.
The frame material and finish are also important. To achieve maximum support and safety especially in barbell exercises, select frames that are at least 2-3 mm. thick and are made of at least 11-gauge steel. Some quality machines have powder-coated or chrome finish to maintain their features from rust and scratches.
Add-On Accessories
Functional trainer with storage capabilities that make it easy to store your storage accessories like weight plates, spare small parts, and even water bottles and tablets make it even more functional.
Size
Before you buy a trainer, you need to consider the size of your space. If your weight room has limited space, use a trainer like the Inspire Fitness FT1. It is best for small spaces because it has a dimension of 54.02 * 45.98 * 82.99 inches.
