Written by Kiel DiGiovanni | Co-founder
Fact checked by Kirsten Yovino, CPT Brookbush Institute
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Outfitting your gym setup with all the equipment you need to work your entire body can be expensive and space prohibitive. If you’ve been struggling with these factors, this is where a functional trainer comes into play, as they are one of the most unique pieces of gym equipment that you can buy.
Finding the best functional trainer to match your specific fitness needs and budgetary constraints is tough if you don’t know what you're looking for. There is a lot to consider, like the features, price, build quality, and size.
To save you guys time and money, we have done all the necessary research and testing to create this list of the 9 best functional trainers on the market right now.
Check out the options listed below to find the perfect choice for your gym setup or commercial gym.
Table of Contents:
- 9 best functional trainers
- Comparison table of the top rated functional trainers
- What is a functional trainer & types
- What to look for when buying one
- FAQs
9 Best Functional Trainer Machines
- Overall Best: Force USA G15
- Budget Pick: Force USA G3
- Premium Pick: Force USA G20
- Functional Trainer With Rack: Force USA X20
- Amazon Pick: MiM USA Hercules 1001
- Functional Trainer With Half Rack: Force USA X15
- Budget Amazon Pick: Marcy Functional Trainer
- Bodyweight Functional Trainer: Total Gym Fit
- Best Functional Trainer With Barbell: BodyCraft XFT
SFS Pick
Force USA G15
SFS Budget Pick
Force USA G3
SFS Premium Pick
Force USA G20
1. Overall Best Functional Trainer: Force USA G15
The Force USA G15 comes at the top of our list of functional trainers because it combines the best parts of a power rack, smith machine, functional trainer, pull-up station, low row, suspension trainer, lat pulldown, and dip bars.
The G15 is the world's first functional trainer that offers an interchangeable cable ratio (2:1 & 4:1), which provides more flexibility in the weights you’re working with while working out. The dual-weight stacks clock in at 285 pounds each allowing you to take your functional training to a new level.
You have extreme versatility with this exercise equipment as the uprights have 60 adjustment points to specifically target various muscles.
The Force USA G15 offers one of the best dollar-for-dollar values with all of its bells and whistles and Force USA’s superior build quality. It provides 18 functional attachments, 2x2 uprights, and a limited lifetime warranty making it one of the best and most versatile functional trainers in the fitness industry for powerlifters, bodybuilders, or most home gym owners.
Overall this isn't your traditional functional trainer; without taking up too much floor space you'll be able to rival the exercise options that commercial gyms can provide.
Pros
- Plate loaded and weight stack capability
- 8-in-1 machine
- Includes attachments
- Great warranty
- Helps boots physical and mental energy
Cons
- Pretty expensive
- Assembly can be a lengthy process
- Large footprint
The all-new Force USA G15™ All-In-One Trainer features the World's first interchangeable cable pulley ratio (2:1 and 4:1), Heavy Duty Steel Uprights, Dual Integrated 285 lb Weight Stacks, 18 Attachments, and an optional Upgrade Kit...
2. Best Budget Functional Trainer: Force G3
The G3 is Force USA's most budget-friendly functional trainer machine that combines a power rack, smith machine, functional trainer, chin-up station, and core trainer into a space almost identical to most power racks.
Despite being one of the most budget-friendly functional trainers, it is still jam-packed with useful features that offer you the ability to perform 75+ exercises efficiently.
Whether you want to perform pull-ups, bicep curls, bent-over rows or squats, this machine has you covered. You’ll be able to perform all the same exercises you would in a traditional gym while working out in the comfort of your own home gym setup.
The Force USA G3 comes with 18 attachments, meaning you won’t be sacrificing any functionality compared to a normal gym.
It also offers a space-saving design that is still sturdy enough to perform strength-building exercises and functional movements.
Like the other Force USA equipment on this list, they all come with a lifetime structural warranty.
Pros
- Smaller footprint
- Great value for the price
- Well-built design
- Feature-packed
- Great warranty
- Tons of attachments included
- Optional specialty bundle
Cons
- Bench/barbell/weights are not included
- May need a partner for assembly
The Force USA G3 All-In-One Trainer is the perfect entry level All-In-One Trainer. Combines a power rack, functional trainer, smith machine, chin up station, and core trainer into the space of a single power rack footprint...
3. Best Premium Functional Trainer: Force USA G20
The Force USA G20 is the premier functional trainer machine for any lifters that are serious about working out and want never to have to worry about maxing out. The dual 289-pound weight stacks that offer a 1:1 ratio meaning you'll be moving more weight compared with most other functional trainers.
The G20 combines a power rack, smith machine, vertical leg press, functional trainer, core trainer, chin up station, lat pulldown, low row plate, and new VersaPad station into one beefy multi-station machine.
It includes 29 attachments, providing lifters with an amazing variety of angles to work out from and hit new goals. This steel functional trainer is built with 11 gauge structured rolled SteelForce Tubing so it will withstand more than light commercial usage.
The solid uprights feature Westside spacing at 51 different positions enabling you to set the safeties or J-hooks at your desired level.
Another awesome benefit of this commercial-grade machine is that you have the ability to have three people train on one piece of equipment at the same time!
If you have the money in the bank and are committed to your goals, the Force USA G20 is perhaps the beefiest and most versatile functional trainer on the market.
Pros
- A vast amount of exercise variety
- Multiple people can trainer at the same time
- Great warranty
- Dual 289 weight stacks included
- 11-in-1 strength training system
Cons
- Expensive
- Assembly is difficult
- Not meant for small areas
Introducing the Force USA G20 All-In-One Trainer—The ultimate All-In-One trainer that combines an entire commercial gym into a single power rack footprint that can still fit in any room with standard ceiling height...
4. Best Functional Trainer With Rack: Force USA X20
The X20 Multi Trainer is Force USA's best functional trainer with a full rack that combines a functional training, pull-up station, suspension trainer, and landmine attachment into a space slightly larger than a traditional power rack.
The base Force USA X20 Multi Trainer is six strength training machines in one, with features that give you the ability to perform 400+ strength training exercises.
The rack is high-quality and offers a cable system featuring a 2:1 cable pulley ratio, 11- gauge steel uprights, and 17 included attachments.
This is a commercial grade functional trainer that offers a full power rack so if you want to move some heavy weight during your compound lifts this is the machine for you.
If the base package isn’t quite versatile enough for you, the optional X20 upgrade includes three additional workout stations, four storage shelves, and four functional attachments for a decent value.
Pros
- Smaller footprint
- Great value
- Functional design
- Tons of features
- Great warranty
- Attachments included
- Optional upgrade package provides amazing workout possibilities
Cons
- It needs some additional equipment to get started
- Difficult assembly
The base Force USA X20 Pro Multi Trainer is six strength training machines in one, featuring a 2:1 cable pulley ratio, 11-gauge steel uprights (3'x3'), and 17 attachments. The base unit combines a full power-rack, functional trainer...
5. Best Functional Trainer On Amazon: MiM USA Hercules 1001
Whether you’re looking to purchase gym equipment for a club or top-of-the-line equipment for your home gym, consider the Hercules 1001 Functional Trainer on Amazon.
Th Hercules EX is a commercial-grade that combines a Smith machine, cable machine, power cage, vertical leg press, adjustable weight bench, leg extension and jammer arm into one piece of home gym equipment. You have more than 300 different exercises at your fingertips with this monster.
It also includes 24 attachments and extras you need for a great full-body workout. From performing squats, jammer bar press, chest press, leg extensions, and many more exercises, this machine is well equipped to give you the functionality you need.
This universal gym setup is built for commercial use to last a lifetime of use and abuse.
Pros
- Commercial grade
- Great warranty
- Plenty of included attachments
- Perfect size for a garage gym
- Two weight stacks
Cons
- No weight plates included
- Assembly will take a while
HERCULES EX Exercise Machine for Whole Body Workout. Efficiently Perform more than 300 Different Exercises for Shoulder, Arms, Chest...
6. Best Functional Trainer With Half Rack: Force USA X15
If you are looking for a fully loaded half rack, that also functions as a functional trainer, then the Force USA X15 should be on the top of your list.
This versatile functional trainer is an excellent option for those who want an all-in-one solution but have little need for the Smith machine that is typically included in these types of machines.
The X15 Pro is built quite sturdy despite its small footprint, which is perfect for powerlifters and strength athletes that need to save some space. The pin and plate-loaded unit offers six different strength training machines combined and with the 15 attachments it comes with you have over 400 exercises to work with.
While the X15 comes in at a high price point, when you factor in the great warranty, high-quality build, and flexibility for lifters, the Force USA X15’s still a great value.
Pros
- Plenty of included attachments
- Storage built-in
- High-quality build
- Lots of adjustability
- Dual 289lb weight stacks
Cons
- No Smith machine
The base Force USA X15 Pro Multi Trainer is six strength training machines in one, featuring a 2:1 cable pulley ratio, 11-gauge steel uprights (3'x3'), and 15 functional attachments...
7. Best Budget Option On Amazon: Marcy Functional Trainer
The Marcy Smith Machine/Cage System is an excellent option for workout enthusiasts, is designed for workout enthusiasts, powerlifters, and functional lifters that are wanting to build a gym setup on a budget. So if you hate going to a traditional gym, this bad boy is a convenient solution for a home gym setup.
It combines the best aspects of a power tower, smith machine, utility bench, landmine, and squat rack to provide lifters a full body workout in a sturdy frame. It also comes equipped with six plate storage pegs, a multi-grip pull-up station, and a durable cable system.
It only has a 300-pound capacity on the Smith bar, but at the price point, it is still a great value and would be perfect for most beginners' home gyms.
Pros
- Includes weight bench
- Affordable
- Pec Fly station included
- Combines power rack, Smith machine, and functional trainer
Cons
- Low weight capacity compared to other functional trainers
- It doesn’t have a great warranty
You don’t have to switch between various workout stations with this gym system that combines different strength building machines: a Power Tower, Utility Bench, and Squat Rack...
8. Best Bodyweight Functional Trainer: Total Gym Fit
Not all functional trainers use weight plates or stacks for resistance. The Total Gym Fit offers cross-training capabilities that combine elements of strength training and HIIT workouts into one package without using any weight other than the users' body weight.
The Total Gym Fit is a mid-priced model that can help you strengthen and mold your perfect body with over 85 exercises, like squats, leg presses, crunches, shoulder presses, and even pull-up variations. Unlike traditional home workout equipment, which is bulky and takes up a bunch of room, this Total Gym unit uses a unique bodyweight resistance system to create intense workout capabilities.
Most exercises with the Total Gym Fit use the glideboard apparatus, but you can also stand to use the squat accessory and other included attachments to make doing whole-body workouts simple. To make the Total Gym Fit an even better deal, it comes pre-assembled to getting started a breeze.
Total Gym has been well tested and used for many years and it isn't hard to see why they are consistently some of the best bodyweight functional trainers in the world.
Pros
- 450 lb weight capacity
- Awesome warranty
- Free shipping provided with purchase
- Ready to be used straight out of the box
- Customer reviews are very positive
Cons
- Value isn’t the best
- Workouts are included, but on a DVD
The Total Gym FIT home gym features 12 levels of resistance for maximum variety and customizations of your workouts! This top-of-the-line home gym equipment promises to deliver...
9. Best Compact Functional Trainer: BodyCraft XFT
Suppose you are looking for a high-quality functional trainer that is loaded with a solid build, has a small exterior dimension, and unique built-in features. In that case, the Bodycraft XFT compact functional trainer is a fantastic option. The half-rack is surprisingly tough, with powder-coated heavy gauge steel tubing making up most of the frame construction.
This functional trainer one of the most durable options with this compact footprint. It has some included accessories like the blue rotating “barbell”, handle attachments, and weight stacks.
You can efficiently perform hundreds of strength and functional exercises from the Bodycraft XFT compact functional trainer. While being on the higher end of the price range for this type of equipment, it isn’t a bad value if you plan to use it often. The price point seems more reasonable when you factor in the high-quality materials, functionality, included accessories, and warranty.
Pros
- Solid construction
- Great residential warranty
- Upgradable weight stack
- Workout posters included
Cons
- High price point
- Could include more attachments
- Single weight stack
Introducing the BODYCRAFT XFT, the most comprehensive Strength Training System ever created. Designed and engineered by BODYCRAFT, the XFT is the latest in strength training technology....
Comparison Table of The 9 Best Functional Trainers
In the chart below we show you how our favorite functional trainers stack up next to each other. We hope this helps you find the optimal machine to suit your needs.
|
Product Name
|
Price ($-$$$$)
|
Size (Dimensions) LxWxH
|
Warranty
|
Weight Capacity
|
Features
|
Average Rating
|
|
$$$$
|
53" (L)
80"(W)
87"(H)
|
Lifetime structural warranty
|
Unit: 992 lb
Smith Machine: 772 lb
Chin-up: 772 lb
|
-Professional grade
-Integrated weight stacks
-2x2 uprights
|
3 Reviews
★★★★★
|
|
|
$$
|
55" (L)
80" (W)
87" (H)
|
Lifetime structural warranty
|
-Unit: 992 lb
-Smith Machine: 772 lb
-Chin-up: 772 lb
|
-5-In-1 Strength Training System
-Plate loaded cable system
-18 attachments included
|
55 Reviews
★★★★★
|
|
|
$$$$
|
67" (L)
75" (W) 91" (H)
|
Lifetime structural warranty
|
-Unit: 992 lb
-J-Hooks: 992 lb
-Front Safety: 992 lb
-Smith Machine: 794 lb
|
-Optional lat pulldown upgrade
-Band peg compatibility
-Commercial roller j-hooks included
-Dynabolt holes for safety
|
9 Reviews
★★★★.5
|
|
|
$$$$$
|
87" (L)
70" (W) 92" (H) |
Lifetime structural warranty
|
-Unit: 992 lb
-Chin-up: 992 lb
-Shelving: 992 lb
|
-2:1 cable pulley ratio
-42 adjustment points
-9-in-1 strength trainer system
-Professional grade construction
|
No Ratings
|
|
|
$$$$
|
77” (L)
67” (W) 86” (H) |
Lifetime structural warranty
|
600 lb
|
-Efficiently Perform more than 300 Different Exercises
-Designed for commercial use
-22 included attachments
|
12 Reviews
★★★★.6
|
|
|
$$$$
|
57" (L)
70" (W)
92" (H) |
Lifetime structural warranty
|
-Unit: 992 lb
-Chin-up: 992 lb
-Shelving: 992 lb
|
-3x3 steel uprights
-11-gauge reinforced steelforce tubing
-Westside spacing
-Upgrade kits options
|
1 Review
★★★★★
|
|
|
$$$
|
70” (L)
84” (W)
86” (H)
|
2 years
|
300 lb
|
-Multi-grip pull-up bar
-Adjustable bench included
-Butterfly press arms
|
290 Reviews
★★★★.5
|
|
|
$$ |
Unfolded: 93″ L Folded: 50.5″ (L) |
Lifetime warranty on frame Two years on all parts |
450 lb |
-Upgraded steel frame |
1696 Reviews
★★★★.7 |
|
|
$$$$ |
61″ (L) |
Residential Lifetime Warranty |
150lb Weight Stack (Upgradeable to 200lb) |
-Multi-grip chin up bar |
20 Reviews ★★★★★ |
What Is A Functional Trainer?
This is a fantastic machine that is a unique combination of many different pieces of equipment in one functional piece. The perfect functional trainer usually looks like a power rack with weight stacks, bars, a smith machine, pulleys, and adjustable cables.
Functional trainers help many people work out different parts of their bodies and perform a fantastic amount of strength movements, HIIT, and other exercises. The main reason why they are called functional trainers is that you can perform many functional movements that correlate to everyday life.
For example, you can do a fitness routine that includes pull-ups, Smith machine squats, single arm rows, and other functional movements within a single piece of equipment.
Types Of Functional Trainers:
As with many things in the fitness industry the name of various equipment can change depending on who you ask. Below we cover the most common types of functional trainers available today.
1. Cable
This version will include cables, weight stacks, and an adjustable pulley system that ends with carabiners that allow you to switch out attachments quickly. By adjusting the cables' heights and weight with a pin, you can get almost infinite workout options and resistance to help you achieve your fitness goals and improve your movements during everyday life.
We've covered some really good functional trainer cable machines previously including the Xmark functional trainer, Body Solid functional trainer and Titan fitness functional trainer in our post the Best Cable Machines.
2. Weight plate
Plate-loaded cable machines are unique because they don't usually come with weights stacks included. Instead, you would use standard/Olympic-style weight plates to add resistance to the cable system. This is a great way to save money on an unnecessary weight stack or cable machine if you already have a sufficient amount of weight plates in your gym setup.
3. All-in-one trainer
All-in-one exercise systems use free weights, smith machines, and cable systems to provide a great blend of different resistances needed for weight training in one complete package. They're also usually combined with stacks of weights that slide on rails and adjustable pulley systems designed to provide unlimited exercise possibilities.
These machines can sometimes incorporate other styles of resistance mechanisms such as springs, friction, hydraulics, or resistance bands. Most of the functional trainers above would fit this category.
4. Bodyweight
Bodyweight functional trainers are a type of strength-training equipment where you use your bodyweight to provide resistance against gravity. One of the best examples of a bodyweight functional trainer is the Total Gym line of equipment.
Total gyms allow you to target all major muscle groups with just one piece of workout equipment. With elements of cardio, stretching, and strength training, it provides everything your body needs to get you in the best shape of your life with just your body weight.
5. Smart
Although we didn't add any Smart options to our list above, we should mention that Smart functional trainers and gym equipment can offer killer workouts in small spaces. In our opinion, the best smart functional trainer is the Echelon Reflect on Amazon or the Tonal smart home gym. These are great as they are always updated and they provide a more hi-tech workout experience, which can be fun and motivating.
BENEFITS OF FUNCTIONAL TRAINERS:
Functional trainers offer some amazing benefits assuming you use them regularly. Below we highlighted some of the reasons why you might want to buy one for your home gym.
1. Solid Versatility
When buying workout equipment for a gym setup, you want every piece to be versatile and have more functionality. A functional trainer is incredibly adaptable, allowing anyone that is creative to get a full body workout on one piece of equipment. This saves space and money while allowing for other pieces to be purchased.
A functional trainer is capable of working your lats, core, shoulders, biceps, triceps, pectorals, quads, glutes, hamstrings, calves, and many other muscle groups. What makes a functional trainer even more useful is that you can easily transition from working one muscle group to another, reducing downtime and increasing the efficiency of your workouts.
Adding accessories and attachments increases the functionality even further, making it easy to recommend a functional trainer to anyone trying to put a gym setup together.
2. Space Efficient
Functional trainers are also commonly referred to as all-in-one trainers due to lifters can do almost everything on a single piece of fitness equipment, yet they take up very little space. Considering that most functional trainers are at least five machines in one package, you’re saving a ton of space in your setup for other pieces of workout equipment.
Most functional trainers measure roughly five feet by six feet while reaching almost eight feet in height. Remember that most functional trainers have pull-up bar grips, so you must add a couple of additional feet to the height to avoid hitting your head on the ceiling.
3. Attachment Options
Versatile functional trainers have gained a lot of attention from home gym owners due to their training flexibility. The adjustable cable attachments will have carabiners at the end, which are compatible with many different attachments. This is an incredible advantage as having multiple different attachments at your disposal allows you to target muscle groups from different angles, resulting in better overall gains from your workouts.
We recommend that you invest in high-quality attachments like tricep rope attachments, barbells, handles, ankle straps, harnesses, chains, bar attachments, free weights, and so many more. With a more extensive variety of attachments, you can add diversity to your workouts and keep yourself from plateauing.
4. Safety
One of the biggest problems that occur in traditional gyms with free weights is that many people will shy away from specific exercises and accessories because they don’t have the confidence or a spotter to help them throughout the workout. Whereas a functional trainer machine is safe, easy to use, and convenient, so you don’t have to worry about getting hurt or stuck underneath heavy weights.
Making it a perfect option for a home gym setup because you can gain confidence and control knowing that the functional trainer will help keep you safe.
5. Works Multiple Angles
This is why they are called functional trainers. They are capable of working your muscles from multiple angles, meaning that you can adjust the plane of motion through which your body moves.
Functional trainers give the lifter the ability to get a full-body workout from any angle without investing a ton of money into separate expensive machines or other functional accessories.
6. Helpful for Rehabilitation
A functional trainer isn’t just for strength training; it can also be beneficial for rehabbing after an injury. By using one, you can focus on restoring your strength and proper movement of the musculoskeletal system without having to risk injury.
A functional trainer is great for rehabbing because it is very safe to use, and you can do multi-lateral work with it. For some rehab purposes, you need to do regular exercises, while others require more strict movements. A functional trainer typically incorporates the best of both worlds in one package.
7. Cost Effective
In the grand scheme of workout equipment investments, a functional trainer is a significant monetary amount; however, considering your health and well-being is a small price to pay. At the lowest price point, a basic functional trainer will set you back about $1500, while the upper range can easily be $5000+.
While this may sound like a large initial investment, they are durable, versatile, and cost-effective compared to buying each piece separately. You can also look at it from a different angle; when taken care of properly, a typical functional trainer will last you at least ten years to a lifetime, making the investment very reasonable in the long run.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A FUNCTIONAL TRAINER?
Due to functional trainers being a good size chunk of cash you should carefully look at a few factors to make sure you end up with a piece of equipment that you'll get the most out of. Check some of these factors you should consider when shopping for a functional trainer.
1. Size
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a functional trainer is if you will have plenty of space to fit this new piece of equipment. To ensure you have enough room in your gym, you must consider the functional trainers' exterior dimensions and if you will also have enough vertical clearance. For example, if your gym space is cramped, you shouldn’t look at a one with a larger footprint; instead, look at a compact option that would fit perfectly in a corner.
On the flip side, if you have an ample amount of space, like a garage or basement, we recommend that you consider a more versatile and spacious option where you can have extra functionality to increase the variety of exercises you can do in your workouts.
A good rule of thumb when estimating how much space you will need for most functional trainers is that the area should be a minimum of eight feet by eight feet. This is to ensure that a standard barbell, four-foot bench, room to use the cable attachments, and accessories will comfortably fit within the area.
If you’re still unsure how much space you’ll need in your gym for a functional trainer, it would be best to overestimate and put plenty of space around the piece. This is a great way to ensure that you will have some room to grow into and add more attachments and accessories at a later date. Don’t forget that the above estimate is just a general guideline, so always do your own measurements to ensure adequate space.
2. Build
A functional trainer can be an expensive investment initially, so some people think it would be better to save money and choose a cheaper option. However, sometimes cheaper builds require more repairs and replacements in the long run, compared to investing more money upfront for a high-quality functional trainer.
So instead of wasting your money on cheaper options to save some money initially, focus more on choosing an option built with durable materials like 11-gauge steel with solid functionality, high weight capacity and a lifetime warranty.
The higher-quality functional trainers can offer improved functionality and features that will optimize your workout, challenge you to improve your workout performance and reduce your risk of equipment failure.
3. Attachments
Functional trainers are great because they almost always come with a few cable attachments. The more premium options typically come with more accessories and attachments. We highly recommend that you go with the functional trainer with most of the accessories you need to get started immediately upon assembly.
Typically you can find different attachments or other accessories that will work with your functional trainer.
For example:
- Dip bars
- Ankle strap
- Leg press attachment
- Multi-functional pull-up bars
- Band pegs
- Jammer arms
- Lat pulldown machines
- Adjustable workout benches
- Safety spotters
- Bar storage
- Monolift
- Tricep rope attachment
- Ankle cuff
- Landmine
- Jammer arm
- Olympic weight plates
4. Usage
Training on a functional trainer will provide you with a far more complete form of workout since the movements are more similar to things you'd do in your everyday life. In addition to being more flexible with training styles, you will also have many attachment options to choose from, allowing you to expand and change the angle of motion while exercising.
So when you invest in an all in one home gym that fits your training style, you'll be able to mix up your workouts for new gains.
Keep in mind that different functional trainer machines have different pros and cons.
If you're into powerlifting and moving heavy loads you should opt for a machine with a rack whereas if you'd rather build muscle then you could choose one with a Smith machine and cable systems.
If you’re looking to maximize your space, picking an option with a smaller footprint would be a better option. But if you’re looking to get the most versatile trainer so that you have a wide variety of exercises that you can do, then going for one of the more complex options would be a better choice.
5. Warranty
Typically good companies that are proud of their products will have an excellent warranty to protect their equipment in the unlikely event that something fails. So, look for companies with lifetime warranties before buying a functional trainer.
We would recommend that you try to stick with a functional trainer that has a five-year or better warranty. Remember that most of these warranties might not cover normal wear and tear.
Warranties typically only cover failure, manufacturing issues or structural problems. Always read the manufacturer's warranty conditions on the company's site to avoid problems and unwelcome surprises down the road.
6. Price
One of the biggest factors to decide when purchasing new gym equipment is how much you are willing to spend. Functional trainers are not cheap, but typically you will get a good value for your money.
They fall into a pretty wide price range, typically being somewhere between $1000 to $6000+. For most people, a high-quality machine will range in the $3,000-$4000 range. For $4000 to $5000, you can expect a functional trainer that has all the bells and whistles.
An all-in-one functional trainer will be the perfect centerpiece in your gym setup and won’t require much more equipment to be able to hit every muscle group thoroughly. Ultimately we recommend that instead of focusing so much on the price, focus more on the quality and functionality of the trainer.
If you start off going cheap, you may end up paying more in the long run due to repairs and replacements.
7. Reviews
When buying any piece of gym equipment, you need to make sure to pay close attention to the product reviews. Most brands tend to believe their products are perfect with no faults, which can lead to people making purchases that aren’t right for them.
To ensure you don't get stuck with a functional trainer that is low quality and taking up space in your gym setup, we highly recommend validating a company's products through the eyes of people that previously purchased the product. The review section of a product page is the perfect place to read the praise or woes of previous buyers, just make sure that the reviews actually come from verified customers as some companies will also fake their reviews.
The best places to check out genuine reviews of functional trainers besides word of mouth are blog sites (like ours), Reddit, social media, Amazon, YouTube, the product’s site, and Google to find more reviews.
FUNCTIONAL TRAINER FAQs
Who makes the best functional trainer?
Trying to decide on the best option was difficult as there were so many to choose from. Moreover, it will vary from person to person depending on their needs. Overall though, we believe that the best functional trainer for most people would be the Force USA G15 assuming you have the money to spend.
The G15 easily one of the best options on the market and it would be tough to beat due to its exercise diversity, overall size, included accessories, value at the price point, warranty, and build quality.
Is a functional trainer worth it?
If a functional trainer is really worth the investment for you really depends on your training style, what kind of equipment you have already, available space, and budget. For example, if you already have a barbell, some dumbbells, free weight equipment, and rack setup then you can already do most of the exercises already.
In this situation, you may just need a cable crossover more so than a full functional trainer. If you’re just starting off in building your gym setup then a functional trainer can be the perfect staple piece of your setup as it will give you a ton of versatility in a small space.
Either way, it is an incredibly useful piece of gym equipment that combines a ton of exercise capability into one compact machine. They are expensive, however, so you want to make sure it is something that you will get a ton of use out of.
What should I look for in a functional trainer?
It seems obvious to say that a functional trainer should be what its title implies-functional. Unfortunately, there are too many options on the market right now that just don’t live up to their name.
A real functional trainer should give plenty of training variety so that you can train different muscle groups at the same time. Typically, high-quality functional trainers have adjustable pulleys, pull-up bar, j-hooks with spotters, Smith machine, storage, power rack and the option for multiple attachment add-ons.
The best functional trainers will also give lifters the ability to train in all directions and imitate everyday, functional movements. You should also look at the factors we have listed above like: warranty, build quality, price, usage, size, and included attachments.
SUMMARY: WHICH FUNCTIONAL TRAINER IS BEST FOR MY HOME GYM?
With a good functional trainer, you can get an incredible workout with an all-in-one piece of fitness equipment.
It will offers a ton of much-needed versatility to a workout, and using it as a base piece for your gym gives you benefits of strength training and weight lifting exercises like chest presses, dumbbell squats, cable flys, dips, and so many more.
A functional trainer is not a cheap investment so don’t rush your purchase decision and select a high-quality model that will work the best for your exercise routine needs.
While, in our opinion, the best functional trainer is the Force USA G15, any of our top options will be a good choice. It depends on what you need.
As a final recap, here are the best functional trainers on the market right now:
- Overall Best Option: Force USA G15
- Best for Budget: Force USA G3
- Most Premium: Force USA G20
- Best with Rack: Force USA X20
- Best on Amazon: MiM USA Hercules 1001
- Best with Half Rack: Force USA X15
- Best for Budget on Amazon: Marcy Trainer
- Best for Bodyweight: Total Gym Fit
- Best with Barbell: BodyCraft XFT
More Best Equipment Roundups:
Kiel DiGiovanni
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