The Best Functional Trainers 2023 (Our Top Picks)

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Are you looking for the best functional trainer? Let me help you.

When I work with my clients as a personal trainer, I often focus on functional training. This means we do exercises designed to mimic real-life activities. 

To support functional training, you need a so-called “functional trainer.” Such equipment is usually a cable machine with pulleys, but you can also find other types of equipment with pulleys.

With my clients, I mostly use the functional trainer to train mobility and strength in small muscle groups, for example, in the shoulders, hips, and legs.

Those cable machines are also great for recovery from injuries. Therefore, therapists often used functional trainers.

The adjustable pulleys offer a wide range of motion for every muscle. The machines often come with ankle cuffs and different types of handles.

Athletes also use the functional trainer to train a specific move, like a golf swing.

You can also mimic free weight exercises on the functional trainer to prepare your body for heavier weights.

Best Functional Trainer

Force USA G6 All-in-One

• 9 Strength systems
• Dual 220 lbs weight stacks
• 17 Attachments

Check on Force USA

The best functional trainer, in my opinion, is the Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer. This unit combines 9 different strength training systems into a single piece of equipment.

It has the heaviest weight stack, has 17 attachments, and provides a wide range of motion. 

However, if Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer doesn’t have what you’re looking for, look at the other brands we have below.

Table of Contents

• The 9 Best Functional Trainers
  • Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer
  • Tonal Mirror
  • Body-Solid PFT100
  • Inspire Fitness FT1
  • Inspire Fitness FTX Functional Trainer
  • Rep Fitness FT-3000
  • Body-Solid BFFT10R Functional Trainer
  • XMark Functional Trainer
  • Marcy SM-4033
• What to look for in the best functional trainer?
  • Functionality
  • Weight Stacks
    • Dual vs Single Weight Stack
  • Pulleys
  • Attachments
  • Space
  • Price and Warranty
• Which functional trainer is best overall?
• FAQ on functional trainers
• What to do next?

The 9 Best Functional Trainers

Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer

Have you ever wanted to do so much more with your workout? Well, now you can. 

For me, the Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer is the ultimate functional trainer today. It gives you access to 9 different strength training systems in one machine.

Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer combines the following exercise machines into a single piece of equipment:

• Power Rack
• Functional Trainer
• Smith Machine
• Leg Press
• Chin-up Station
• Dip Station
• Core Trainer
• Suspension Trainer
• Low Row

Though it may seem expensive initially, it may make up the cost of buying these 9 exercise machines separately. With a dual 220 lbs stack weight capacity, it has the heaviest weight stack on this list. Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer has a 2:1 cable pulley ratio. So if you load it with 100 lbs, you will get a resistance of 50 lbs.

The pulley uprights have a distance of 41 inches. If that is not enough for you, you can stand outside the cage to do your flyes. You can maneuver at a wider angle this way, because the pulleys can freely rotate.

This is the tallest functional trainer on this list, so you need a minimum ceiling height of 8 feet and four inches. Also, since it has 17 attachments, it may weigh up to 940 lbs during shipping. This unit requires assembly, so set aside enough time (about a day) to set the whole system up.

Tonal Mirror

Tonal might be the most revolutionary weightlifting device I’ve ever seen. It is a strength training device that can support both your upper and lower body movements, thanks to its adjustable arms.

Tonal is a must-have functional trainer if you want a piece of equipment that does the thinking for you, no guesswork. Before you start, Tonal asks you to do a series of exercises, so the system can assess your current strength. Then, Tonal sets the optimal weight or resistance for your every move.

It features 200 pounds of resistance (100 lbs on each arm), which can adjust in 1-pound increments. The resistance will increase as you break personal records and get stronger. This is possible because Tonal uses 17 sensors to provide instantaneous guidance for each movement. If the system detects signs of struggle, the Spotter feature temporarily reduces the resistance so you can finish your set safely.

Tonal is also a smart fitness mirror, so you can use it to track your metrics, show your achievements and watch workout videos.

Body-Solid PFT100

If the 200 pounds of resistance from Tonal or HCI is not enough for you, then Body-Solid Powerline PFT100 Functional Trainer offers a higher resistance.

Body-Solid PFT100 features dual 160-weight stacks, which you can upgrade to 210 lbs stacks on each arm). If you think you might need the upgradable weight, I recommend you buy it together with the whole system. So you can assemble the machine all at once. If you add the weights later, you will need to do some major rework.

With a 180-degree range of motion, 20 different starting positions, and the knurled chinning bar, you can use this machine for plenty of exercises. Plus, it has an integrated accessory bar storage to keep all attachments in one place.

Inspire Fitness FT1

Another option for you is the Inspire Fitness FT1. It is a little heavier than Body-Solid PFT100, but Inspire Fitness FT1 has more attachments.

This unit has dual 165 lbs weight stacks with 5 lbs add-on weights. The 2:1 ratio means the highest resistance you can lift is 82.5 lbs (plus the add-on weights).

Inspire Fitness FT1 has attachments such as triceps rope, straight bars, EZ curl bar, and multi-function belt to give you more workout options. Also, you can use the Exercise Booklet if you need guidance during your workouts. There is a rotating accessory rack where you can put all 11 accessories so you can stay organized. Plus, there is an integrated tablet holder where you can put your device if you want to stream workout videos.

Inspire Fitness FTX Functional Trainer

Another functional trainer from Inspire Fitness is the Inspire Fitness FTX Functional Trainer. 

It is lighter and has fewer attachments than the FT1 model. FT1 and FTX have the same weight stack and resistance ratio. However, this model is cheaper and saves more space than the FT1. So if you liked the FT1 but think it is too expensive, or if you have limited space, then FTX is a great alternative.

Rep Fitness FT-3000

Aside from HCI Fitness PTX Folding Functional Trainer, REP FITNESS FT-3000 is another option if you have a low ceiling or want to save space. At only 78 inches in height and 34 inches wide, this unit can fit through a standard doorway.

The FT-3000 has dual-weight stacks that top at 180lbs with a 2:1 resistance ratio. You can quickly adjust the weight using the magnetic-tipped weight selector pin. Plus, it comes with a helpful placard that demonstrates 12 movement options.

The assembly is a little complex and may require some tools, such as wrenches.

Body-Solid BFFT10R Functional Trainer

Another functional trainer from Body-Solid is the BFFT10R Functional Trainer. Though they came from the same brand as the PFT100, there are many differences between them.

PFT100 uses a dual weight stack, has a heavier stack, saves more space, has a higher weight limit, and has more pulley adjustments. However, BFFT10R is cheaper than PFT100. And since it uses a single-weight stack (190 lbs) and has a lighter stack, BFFT10R is excellent for beginners or lightweight lifters.

Dual weight stack means each cable and handle has its own stack connected to it, so there are two stacks. If you pull the right handle, you can move the right weight stack. The same is true on the left side. For single-weight stacks, the two cables and handles are connected to a single or combined stack. If you pull the right or left handle, the whole stack will move. If you pull both, the entire stack will also move. But you will feel the weights are lighter if you pull both handles, because the weight will be distributed between your right and left arm. It may feel too light if you are a heavy lifter.

BFFT means Best Fitness Functional Trainer. And I think this is the best functional trainer if you are on a budget.

XMark Functional Trainer

XMark Functional Trainer is an alternative if you want a heavy-weight stack on your equipment. XMark’s stack only weighs 20 lbs lighter than the Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer.

The resistance ratio is 2:1. So if you load the maximum weight of 200 lbs, you will get a resistance of 100 lbs on each side. The handles are 60 inches apart, ensuring a comfortable fit for users of all heights. And the 19 adjustments have a space of 3.5 inches. The lowest height setting is 1 inch, and the highest is 6 feet and 6 inches.

With 19 adjustments, a heavy-weight stack, and many accessories, Xmark Functional Trainer is one of the most versatile equipment on his list.

Marcy SM-4033

Another option for you is the Marcy SM-4033. This equipment combines different strength-building machines with a power tower, utility bench, and squat rack.

This functional trainer features a smith machine where you can do your exercises even without a spotter. You can also do body weight training, as it has a multi-grip pull-up bar that you can use for pull-ups and chin-ups. It also includes an attachable and adjustable preacher curl pad, so you can target your biceps. You can attach the curl pad to the included weight bench. The backrest of the bench is adjustable, too; you can adjust it from -27 degrees up to 76 degrees.

The machine requires assembly and might take two days if you do it alone. Also, you need to buy weight plates, as it is not included in the equipment. For your reference, the smith machine bar can hold up to 300 lbs, and the bench has a weight limit of 600 lbs (including user weight).

What to look for in the best functional trainer?

Functionality

Functional trainers are not one size fits all. Before buying one, you need to consider what you want to do with them. The best functional trainers are versatile and allow multiple exercises. So it’s essential to ensure your chosen model has the features to help you achieve your goals: the more exercises a functional trainer can do, the better.

A functional trainer must have a pulley system. It is not a functional trainer without one.

Functional Trainers usually have the following features:

• Smith Machine
• Pulleys
• Landmine Attachment
• Pull-up bar
• Power Rack

If you want the most functional brand, you should go for the Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer. This unit combines 9 different strength training systems into a single piece of equipment.

Weight Stacks

Weight stacks are one of the main features you should look for in a functional trainer. For a good reason: the more weight you can lift, the more exercises you can do. No matter how many exercise machines there are, most of them have a single purpose: to make you stronger by helping your body lift heavy things.

This means that when choosing between two trainers with similar prices and capabilities but different weight stacks, always choose the one that offers more resistance. However, ensure that you can handle the weight, not too light or heavy.

Dual vs Single Weight Stack

Dual weight stacks are perfect if you want to lift more than one weight at a time, or if you want to increase the amount of weight being lifted as you get stronger. They can be more expensive than single weights, but they’re also a little more advanced and require more space. So they might not be great for everyone.

Single-weight stacks have one weight stack with one plate on either side. Single-weight stacks are great if you are a beginner who is just getting started with strength training, or if you don’t have enough space in your home gym. They’re also usually less expensive than dual-weight stacks. So if money is tight and space is limited, this might be better for you.

Pulleys

The distance between the pulleys determines your range of motion. A larger distance between the pulleys allows for greater range of motion. Some pulleys can freely rotate and give you more freedom of movement

The adjustment allows you to adjust the height of your pulleys. This can be helpful if you are tall or short and need a comfortable fit. It’s also useful if there is more than one person using the machine, and they have different heights.

The resistance ratio determines how much resistance you will get. For example, if the ratio is 2:1 and you will load a weight stack of 100lbs, then the resistance you will get is 50 lbs. 

Attachments

You can get your functional trainer with or without accessories. These will allow you to perform more exercises on your machine. These attachments are optional and sometimes sold separately. So if you want all of them or just the ones that work best for you, be prepared to shell out some extra cash.

The common attachments of a functional trainer are the following:

• Dip bars
• Lat pulldown bar
• Leg extension and leg curl attachment
• Exercise Bench
• Triceps rope
• Ankle Strap
• Storage Attachment
• D handles
• Pull-up bar
• Long bar
• Short bar
• EZ curl bar
• Multi-Function Belt
• Sport Handle
• Add-on Weights

Space

A functional trainer is a large piece of equipment, so you need to be sure it fits into your home gym. Consider buying one that can fold up, like HCI Fitness PTX Folding Functional Trainer, so it’s easy to store when not in use.

Price and Warranty

Functional trainers can be expensive, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a great one.

The best way to find the right functional trainer for your needs is to do some research and make sure you’re getting what you want.

What are your priorities? Are you looking for something super affordable, or do you want something with as many features as possible?

Also, protect your investment by checking the warranty. A warranty will not only protect you from losing money on a broken functional trainer. But it also shows that the manufacturer stands behind the quality of their product.

Which functional trainer is best overall?

The Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer is the winner in terms of quality and value. It combines 9 different strength training systems into a single piece of equipment. It has the heaviest weight stack and has 17 attachments.

Also, the pulleys can freely rotate, giving you more freedom of movement. Though it may seem expensive initially, it may make up the cost of buying the 9 exercise machines separately.

FAQ on functional trainers

What to do next?

When all is said and done, the best functional trainer for your needs depends on various factors. Including what you’re looking for out of a machine and how much you’re willing to spend. 

However, we set out to find the top 9 functional trainers that we think are the best and highly recommend, whether you’re looking for an entry-level solution or an advanced machine. If you take into account these reviews and tips when shopping around, you should find a functional trainer that meets your needs.

Ultimately, we hope this guide can help you make the best decision for your home gym.

Happy training in your Home Gym!
Inge van Haselen
Personal Trainer