Functional trainers have been and still are one of the most popular home and commercial pieces gym equipment.
They are undeniably one the best pieces to add to your fitness space for their versatility and accommodation to users of all types.
Literally anybody could use a cable machine and get a good workout in, whether they are a mom at home, or big body builder using a functional trainer.
This in-depth article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting the best functional trainer for your home gym or fitness facility, with some of the best suggestions out there on the market in 2023.
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Select Fitness USA Editor's Choice: Body Solid GFT100
The Body-Solid GFT100 Functional Trainer is a top choice for those seeking a high-quality functional trainer at a competitive price for light commercial and residential use cases! It is truly the best band for your buck at this level of build quality.
Constructed with a strong steel frame, the GFT100 is built for durability and long-lasting use. This functional trainer is capable of withstanding the rigors of daily workouts, while its compact design saves valuable space in your fitness area.
It offers 20 pulley positions, with 180° rotating pulleys for targeting different muscle groups. Overall, it provides exceptional value for its affordable price.
Included Attachments: (2) x aluminum grip stirrup handles, (1) x triceps rope, (1) x chin and dip belt, (1) x double swivel bar
Weight Stacks: 160 Lbs Standard | Upgradable to 210 or 310 lbs.
Pulley Ratio: 2:1 Ratio (100 Feels like 50)
Machine Rating: Light Commercial / Residential
Dimensions: 45.1”L x 64”W x 83”H
Price: Starts at $1,995
The Body Solid Powerline PFT100 functional trainer is designed for home gyms, providing everything you need from a cable machine and nothing you don't.
The PFT100 is hands down the best choice for those looking to invest in a reliable dual-stack functional trainer for their home gym without breaking the bank.
With 20 different pulley positions, 160 or 210 lb. weight stacks, a pull up bar, included handles, and 10 year warranty, the PFT100 packs performance into a great machine for less than $1500!
If you're looking for a lean mean machine, for your home gym space, the PFT100 from body solid is the way to go.
Included Attachments: (2) x nylon strap handles included
Weight Stacks: 160 Lbs. Standard | Upgradable to 210
Pulley Ratio: 2:1 Ratio (100 Feels like 50)
Machine Rating: Residential
Dimensions: 42.3” D x 62.6” W x 83.5” H
Price: Starts at $1,375
When it comes to the best commercial functional trainers, the TKO Strength 9050 stands out as a top option for gym and fitness facility owners alike.
The TKO 9050 offers quality construction, smooth performance, and diverse accessories for heavy use in busy gyms.
Featuring a robust, powder-coated steel frame, it withstands demanding commercial settings.
With two shrouded 210 lb. weight stacks and a 2:1 resistance level, 22 adjustment positions, multi-grip pull up handles, included weight stack shrouds, and accessory storage, its hard to ask for much more on a functional trainer.
The TKO Strength 9050 is an essential addition for gym owners and fitness enthusiasts seeking a high-quality, versatile machine for their facility.
Included Accessories: (1) Long Bar, (1) Short Bar, (1) Deluxe tricep rope, (1) Neoprene ankle strap, (2) Molded grip handles, Chains.
Weight Stacks: 210 Lbs.
Pulley Ratio: 2:1 Ratio (100 Feels like 50)
Machine Rating: Commercial
Dimensions: 67.5″ W x 44.5″ D x 88″ H
Price: Starts at $4,590
The TKO Light Functional Trainer has a smaller footprint while maintaining a user-friendly, versatile, and feature packed dual cable design.
This functional trainer boasts TKOs standard of sturdy construction and high-quality steel for lasting performance and stability in light commercial settings.
It comes with an exercise placard, 160 lb weights stacks, integrated pull up bar, a full accessory pack, and a durable and attractive build.
In short, the TKO Light Functional Trainer is an outstanding choice for a compact, versatile, and user-friendly option.
Included Accessories: (2) molded nylon handles, (1)tricep rope, (1)long bar, (1)short bar, (1)ankle strap, (1)chain
Weight Stacks: 160 Lbs.
Pulley Ratio: 2:1 Ratio (100 Feels like 50)
Machine Rating: Light Commercial
Dimensions: 53"W x 38"D x 84"H
Price: Starts at $3,190
The BodyKore Universal Trainer is the ultimate all-in-one functional trainer with a smith machine for your home gym.
This versatile machine offers multiple exercises, featuring a dual adjustable pulley system, smith machine, multi-grip pull-up bars, weight pegs, bar storage, and more.
Built with heavy-gauge steel tubing, high-quality cables, and pulleys, it includes 2x 220lb steel weight plate sets and a counterbalanced bar.
With limitless exercise options, it encourages you to achieve your fitness goals while ensuring smooth and controlled movements. Experience diverse workouts and enjoy the convenience of this all-in-one machine at home.
Included Accessories: 2x handles, Tricep bar, Lat pull down bar, Ankle strap, J hooks, Spotter arms, Landmine, Dip bar, Lat pull seat, Leg press plate, Band pegs
Weight Stacks: 220 Lbs.
Pulley Ratio: 2:1 Ratio (100 Feels like 50)
Machine Rating: Commercial / Residential
Dimensions: 91" x 62" x 89"
Price: Starts at $6,499
The Bodykore Dynamic Trainer, is an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts looking for a functional trainer with a squat rack.
While the Dynamic Trainer may not include a counterbalanced smith machine like its sibling, the Universal Trainer, it compensates with its free weight-focused design.
Alongside these impressive features, the Dynamic Trainer also boasts compatibility with various accessories for further customization.
Moreover, including a squat rack sets this functional trainer apart from many others on the market.
Included Accessories: J Hooks, Bar Spotters, Landmine, Dip Bar, Lat Pull Down Seat, Handles, Rope, Lat Bar, Tricep Bar, Ankle Attachment.
Weight Stacks: 220 Lbs.
Pulley Ratio: 2:1 Ratio on each pulley
Machine Rating: Commercial / Residential
Dimensions: 67″X71″X89
Price: Starts at $4,400
The Steelflex CLSCC, the best single-stack functional trainer, is perfect for home gyms or smaller spaces, offering exceptional performance and value.
Its 11-gauge steel frame ensures durability and stability, while the smooth pulley system enables a safe and smooth exercise experience.
Equipped with essential accessories like short and long bars, an ankle strap, and handles, it guarantees a total-body workout experience.
For those seeking top performance, quality construction, and comprehensive options in a compact setting, the Steelflex CLSCC Single Stack is the ultimate choice.
Included Accessories: Seated row bar, Stirrup handles, Triceps rope, Accessory hooks, Ankle strap
Weight Stack: (1) 210 Lbs.
Pulley Ratio: 4:1 Ratio on each pulley, 2:1 when using both
Machine Rating: Light Commercial / Residential
Dimensions: 69" × 64" × 84"
Price: Starts at $1,799
The Body Solid Powerline PFT50, the best functional trainer under $1000, offers workout versatility for home gyms at a vey affordable price.
With durable steel construction, 180° swivel pulleys, a 210 lb. weight stack, and integrated pull up bar, it enables all the benefits of a functional trainer at low cost of $995.
Body-Solid's high-quality manufacturing ensures a sturdy, reliable construction for home gym usage levels.
Overall, if you're looking specifically to spend less than $1000 dollars and get as much value as you can, check out the Powerline PFT50 today.
Included Accessories: Includes two nylon cable handles
Weight Stack: (1) 210 Lbs.
Pulley Ratio: 4:1 Ratio on each pulley, 2:1 when using both
Machine Rating: Light Commercial / Residential
Dimensions: 55"L x 61"W x 84"H
Price: Starts at $995
The Body Solid Best Fitness BFFT10R is an excellent choice for those looking to spend as little as possible on a machine that still allows them to perform cable based exercises with an included weight stack.
The BFFT10R is one of the more affordable functional trainers on the market while still offering an entry level weight stack of 190 lbs, 20 pulley positions, included handle attachments, and an integrated pull up bar.
If you want a functional trainer for as cheap as possible without compromising quality, or you are new to weight lifting and don't need a spec'd out machine, the BFFT10R is a fantastic entry level functional trainer you should consider.
Included Accessories: Includes two nylon cable handles
Weight Stack: (1) 190 Lbs.
Pulley Ratio: 4:1 Ratio on each pulley, 2:1 when using both
Machine Rating: Residential
Dimensions: 55"L x 61"W x 84"H
Price: Starts at $799
The Vitruvian Form Trainer+ is an innovative and versatile smart functional trainer, designed to suit both beginners and seasoned fitness enthusiasts from home.
With its unique features and advanced technology, it stands out as the best smart functional trainer in the market at reasonably affordable price point compared to other smart fitness machines.
The Vitruvian Form Trainer+ has a maximum resistance of 440lbs (200kg), which makes it suitable for a wide range of training objectives – whether it's muscle-building, increasing strength, or improving overall functional fitness.
The quick release system allows for rapid adjustments and seamless transitions between exercises, ensuring a more efficient and enjoyable workout experience.
Vitruvian Form Trainer+ is an excellent choice for those looking for a smart functional trainer that offers an unparalleled workout experience, adaptability, and performance
Included Accessories: lightweight handles, ankle straps, and 12 months all-access membership to their workout platform.
Weight Stack: Electronic 440 lbs of resistance. no weight stack
Pulley Ratio: 1:1 electronic resistance
Machine Rating: Residential
Dimensions: 32.5" x 20" x 4.5"
Price: Starts at $2,990
The Body Solid GDCC210 functional trainer is neck and neck with the PFT100 with very similar features and build quality.
The GDCC210 is slightly more heavy duty with a different appearance as well.
This machine packs a punch at its price point with 160 lb. stacks upgradable to 210 lbs., heavy gauge steels, swiveling pulleys, two handles, and a dual grip integrated pull-up bar.
Overall, this machine would take the position for best home gym functional trainer if it weren't a messily 500 bucks more expensive than the PFT100.
If you want the best home gym functional trainer under 2000 dollars with the best build quality, warranty, features, and aesthetic, the GDCC210 will suit you better than the PFT100.
Included Accessories: lightweight handles, ankle straps, and 12 months all-access membership to their workout platform.
Weight Stack: 160 Lbs. | Upgradeable to 210 Lbs.
Pulley Ratio: 2:1
Machine Rating: Residential
Dimensions: 43"Lx 58"W x 84"H
Price: Starts at $1,875
A functional trainer, also known as a dual cable machine, is a versatile piece of strength training equipment designed to enable users to perform a wide variety of exercises targeting multiple muscle groups.
It consists of adjustable cables, pulleys, and weight stacks, providing a full-body workout experience for users of all fitness levels.
These machines are beneficial for both beginners and advanced users, as they allow for customization and modification of exercises to suit individual needs.
Functional trainers are popular in home gyms and commercial facilities due to their ability to deliver efficient, effective workouts with cable based training.
Some advantages of using a functional trainer in your workouts include:
Choosing the right functional trainer for your home gym or fitness facility requires careful consideration of multiple factors.
Functional trainers come in various sizes to accommodate different gym spaces.
Consider the footprint, height, wall, and floor space requirements of the trainer to ensure it fits comfortably in your workout area.
Be mindful of ceiling height and footprint dimensions when selecting a functional trainer with the actual space required to workout in mind as well.
A great functional trainer should come with a range of attachments and extras to cater to various exercises. Some common attachments include:
Functional trainers can use traditional weight stacks or innovative digital resistance systems in the case of this list.
Both methods have their pros and cons, so consider your preferences and workout goals when choosing a trainer with the appropriate resistance method.
When observing the weight stacks, main check out the weight of the stack, and ensure that it contains enough weight for your experience level.
The build quality and materials used in a functional trainer are crucial factors in its cost and it's longevity.
A well-constructed trainer made from high-grade steel and solid welds will last longer and provide a safer workout experience than less robust models, but cost slightly more.
Warranties are an essential aspect to consider as they protect your investment and ensure you have access to assistance if needed. Look for trainers with comprehensive warranties covering the frame, parts, and labor.
The pulley ratio has a significant impact on the overall resistance of the machine.
Many functional trainers with dual weight stacks, will have a 2:1 weight ratio, meaning 100 lbs. on the weight stack actually feels like 50 lbs. of force required to move the stack.
Functional trainers can range dramatically in cost, from budget-friendly options to premium, high-end models.
Assess your budget and workout needs to find a trainer that offers the best value for your money without compromising on quality and functionality.
Consider the ease of installation and long-term maintenance requirements of your chosen functional trainer. Some trainers may require professional installation, which adds to the overall cost. Opt for a functional trainer that has straightforward assembly instructions and minimal maintenance needs to save time and effort in the long run.
Functional trainers offer a vast range of exercises that can be performed on a single machine.
With multiple cable pulleys and various cable attachments, you can seamlessly switch between different exercises to target specific muscle groups.
This versatility makes functional trainers an essential addition to any home gym, as it provides a complete workout experience without the need for numerous separate machines.
Functional trainer machines are designed to be compact and make optimal use of space in your workout area.
They are perfect for home gyms with limited space or multifunctional workout rooms. With a functional trainer, you can perform a full-body workout without sacrificing precious square footage.
Investing in a functional trainer can save you money in the long run, as it eliminates the need to purchase multiple pieces of gym equipment.
The all-in-one nature of functional trainers allows you to efficiently perform numerous exercises with a single machine, making it a cost-effective solution for your fitness needs.
A functional trainer allows for easy adjustments of weight and resistance, enabling progressive overloading in your training.
This promotes muscle growth and strength gains, as you can consistently challenge your body and prevent plateaus in your progress.
The micro-adjustability of cable resistance also ensures smooth and precise increases in weight, catering to various fitness goals and levels.
Functional trainers are an excellent option for rehabilitation purposes, as they provide a safe and controlled exercise environment.
The numerous adjustments and adaptability of functional trainers make them suitable for individuals recovering from injuries or those with mobility limitations.
The ability to perform low-impact exercises with controlled resistance also aids in the recovery process and joint health.
In our opinion, yes, owning a functional trainer is worth it.
If you're looking for versatile home gym or fitness equipment, the functional trainer in comparison to many other machines is actually one of the more cost effective.
We suggest opting in to this machine and finding one that fits your budget instead of getting nothing altogether.
Yes, Of course you can build muscle on the functional trainer.
That is the main purpose of weight training as it is.
A functional trainer machine all by itself could theoretically help you build muscle because of the following reasons:
In our search for the best functional trainers for your home gym, we discovered several high-quality options that cater to different needs and budgets.
When selecting a functional trainer for your home gym, it's essential to consider your specific requirements, fitness goals, available space, budget, and specific features of each machine.
With the right choice and consistent use, a functional trainer can become the centerpiece of your home gym, allowing you to take your workouts to new heights and achieve your fitness objectives from the comfort of your own space.
To check out all of our functional trainer machines, head over to our full collection page!
Do you need help picking a good functional trainer? Talk to a fitness expert today and get the help you need!
Matt Gemkow, the author of this content section at Select Fitness USA, boasts more than 15 years of fitness experience. He started out in sports and athletic training for many years and has since 2014 transitioned into heavy-weight training and bodybuilding. As a result, he has become one of the most experienced fitness equipment experts out there, and a valuable source of information.
