Functional trainers also referred to as cable gyms or cable crossover machines are highly versatile and prove to be a good purchase.

They are usually cheaper than other gym equipment, require a lesser amount of space, and can be used to perform a range of tasks that make it versatile. So, having them in your home gym is a great idea.

A full body workout is possible with the help of a functional trainer.

In this blog post, I’ll go through the best functional trainers available in the market and help you make the best choice according to your needs.

So, without further ado, let’s begin

Let’s jump right in, shall we? We have already written a complete guide about the best elliptical machines.

What is a Functional Trainer?

Known as a cable crossover gym or a cable gym, the functional trainer features cables and swivel pulleys that help an individual work out different parts of their body and perform different exercises.

The functional trainer also has an option to adjust the height of the pulleys. Check out our complete guide about the best rowing machines.

What Exercises Can Be Performed Using a Functional Trainer?

A  functional trainer can be used to perform upper as well as lower body exercise. It is a common myth that a functional trainer can only be used for training the upper body. Following are some of the exercises that can be performed using a functional trainer:

• Lunges
• Pull Ups
• Push Ups
• Rotations
• Squats

But, this isn’t all.

You can put a functional trainer to several different uses and target any muscle you wish to develop. Functional trainers are good additions to people looking to have a personal home gym.

This equipment is also used in commercial gyms, and usually, a gym has multiple functional trainers instead of having just one.

The Advantages of Having a Functional Trainer

In this section of the blog post, we’ll go through the various advantages of purchasing a functional trainer.

Let’s take a look, shall we?

1. A Versatile Tool

One of the biggest benefits of investing in a functional trainer is that the user can perform any exercise he wants to. Each and every part of the body can be worked on with just one piece of good equipment.

Full, varied sessions are possible for full body or split training which is excellent.

Following are handful examples of the exercises that can be performed using a functional trainer:

• Arms: Bicep curl, overhead triceps extensions, hammer curl,
• Shoulders: Cable crossovers, lateral raise, shoulder press, reverse fly’s, upright rows
• Back: Rows, single arm rows, pulldowns, straight-arm pushdowns
• Chest: Cable fly’s, chest press from any angle
• Legs: Glute kickbacks, cable squats, straight-legged deadlift, leg raises

There are more exercises that can be easily performed using a functional trainer.

2.  Multiple Choice for Attachments

Functional trainers are easy to use and come with different adjustment settings and hooks that allow the user to try on different attachments.

The advantage of being able to use different attachments allows the user to target different muscles of the body and progress exercises. For example, a straight barbell can be used to bicep curls, and a rope attachment can be used to do hammer curls when training biceps.

You can invest in barbells, rope attachments, handles, tri-bar attachments, straps, harnesses, etc. These various attachments ensure that your workouts are different and varied, which decreases boredom.

3.  Ensures User Safety

Functional trainers, as opposed to free weight equipment, do not require for there to be a spotter to assist with the workout. So, this is good equipment for those who shy away from performing certain exercises due to lack of confidence.

Functional trainers are easy to use for lifting heavier weights without needing help–one doesn’t even need to worry about getting buried under plates or being stuck on the weight bench.

The amount of effort required is also minimum as all that needs to be done is to move the pin to the weight. This makes a functional trainer ideal for a home gym as you are in total control of the movements.

The machine comes preloaded with all the weights required so, buying additional weights isn’t an issue either.

4. Good for Rehabilitation

A functional trainer is good for rehabilitation purposes and, the machine itself comes from the world of rehabilitation.

The functional trainer was developed to mimic exercises prescribed by rehabilitation therapists to allow the patients to slowly develop strength in their muscles after injury of surgery.

Functional trainers are a good choice for rehabilitation as they provide gentle resistance for the muscles in the body and are also good for progression as the weights can be increased accordingly.

5. Cost Effective

Functional machines are extremely cost effective and allow the user to train almost every part of the body without the need to purchase expensive machinery, dumbbells, or extra weights.

Highly effective workouts can be performed using functional trainers from the comfort of your home. These trainers are not only cost-effective, but they also don’t need a lot of space and are suitable for all levels of ability—from beginners to advanced bodybuilders.

Key Features of Top notch Functional Trainers

There are a lot of things to consider when looking to buy the best functional trainer according to the user’s needs. Following are some things that should be considered:

Two Weight Stacks

It is a good thing to choose a functional trainer that features two weight stacks. Having trainer with just one weight stack beats the whole purpose of investing in a functional trainer as one side of the body starts to compensate for to the other

Over time, this increases muscle imbalances and can even cause injury in the future.

However, a functional trainer with two weight stacks allows each side of your body to work independently and don’t get imbalanced.

Smoothness

While the manufacturers use fancy names to describe the pulleys or the weight stack rods, you should still feel them yourselves to understand how smooth they are. The smoother the pulleys, the better the resistance.

With a smoother functional trainer, it is easy to perform quick and powerful movements that help strengthen the muscles fibers and increase agility.

Long Pulley Travel

A long pulley travel ensures that the user can take some steps out with the pulley. This aids with power lunges and weighted sprints among other exercises and allow a larger range of motion.

Simplicity

It shouldn’t be hard for the user to adjust the height of the pulleys as complicated adjustments can cause frustration. In case the adjustment is a complicated process, the user may simply avoid doing it at all.

Easy adjustments make the workouts quicker and effective since long breaks aren’t necessary to adjust the equipment.

Lots Of Adjustments

A good functional trainer should have various levels of adjustment. Fewer adjustment options can make certain exercises downright difficult as well as make some exercises awkward.

Lots of height adjustment options allow the user to be flexible during the training session.

Good Chin-up Bar

Chin-ups are one of the most essential compound movements. A good functional trainer must feature a chin-up bar that had varied and multiple grips that target different muscles.

The machine needs to be appropriately balanced and should feel solid and sturdy when doing pull-ups as well.

Storage

Storage is one of the most important considerations as well. This is because most functional trainers come with several attachments and in case the trainer doesn’t allow accessible storage for the accessories; they’ll easily get lost.

Top 15 Best Functional Trainers in 2022 – Chart

Picture	Name	Feature	Price	Rating
Picture	Name	Feature	Price	Rating
	1. Inspire Fitness Ft2 Functional Trainer and Smith Station	Weight Stacks: Two 150lb	$$$$	4.8
	2. XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine with Dual 200 lb Weight Stacks	19 settings spaced at 3.5″	$$$$	4.8
	3. Inspire Fitness Scs Smith System / Cage System / Functional Trainer	11 gauge tubular steel	$$$$	4.7
	4. BodyCraft HFT Functional Trainer Home Gym	30 Height Positions	$$$$	4.6
	5. Rep Multi-Grip Functional Trainer Cable Machine	11-gauge steel	$$$$	4.6
	6. Powertec Fitness Functional Trainer Deluxe, Black	capacity – chine up bars: 400 lbs	$$$$	4.5
	7. XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine with Dual 200 lb Weight Stacks	19 settings spaced at 3.5″	$$$$	4.5
	8. BodyCraft HFT Functional Trainer Home Gym 150 lb Stack	2:1 cable ratio	$$$$	4.5
	9. Inspire Fitness Functional Trainer (Ft1)	Two 150lb. commercial weight stacks	$$$$	4.4
	10. Best Fitness BFFT10 Functional Trainer	19 vertical pulley adjustments	$$$$	4.3

1. Inspire Fitness Ft2 Functional Trainer and Smith Station

The Inspire fitness FT2 functional trainer is the best in its class. The trainer allows the user to have the freedom of direction and movement when performing weight or resistance exercises.

Driven by results, the Inspire fitness FT2 functional trainer is a good choice for athletes interested in sport-specific movements and to strengthen their bodies, increase stamina, and lose excess weight.

Smooth Bearing System

This functional trainer from Inspire fitness features a precision steel ball bearing system that provides the user with a smooth and maintenance-free action that helps to have a better workout.

Unique Design

This functional trainer or cable cross features a unique design that integrates the Olympic bar as well as the weight stacks that easily eliminate the need to purchase additional Olympic weights.

The dual pulley system allows the user to adjust the cable cross in 32 positions allowing unlimited training capacity.

Innovative Weight Multiplier

This functional trainer from Inspire Fitness features an innovative weight multiplier that helps double the maximum resistance for heavy lifters. The pull-up bar is also height adjustable that enables it to be used in low ceiling height.

Warranty

The Inspire fitness FT2 functional trainer comes with a limited lifetime warranty of 10 years on the frame as well as all the parts which is a good deal.

Pros and Cons

It is always important to weigh a product’s the pros against the cons to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Pros

• Precision steel ball bearing system provides smooth action
• Comes with numerous accessories
• The dual pulley system adjusts to 32 different positions for optimal training
• Height adjustable pull-up bar
• Good warranty option

Cons

• Awkward when trying to perform squats or bench press
• The instructions booklet isn’t all too helpful

All in all, the Inspire fitness FT2 functional trainer is the best-in-class. It is a good choice for those looking for an efficient, easy to use and durable trainer for all of their training needs.

2. XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine with Dual 200 lb Weight Stacks

This functional trainer from XMark fitness is one of the best available on the market. The trainer allows versatile movements, is easy to adjust and store, and is a suitable trainer for all ages.

The trainer comes with dual weight stacks that go up to 200 lbs, which is perfect for beginners as well as heavy lifers. The XMark fitness XM-7626 functional trainer provides true isolateral-based movements as well.

Unlimited Training Possibilities

The XMark fitness XM-7626 functional trainer has an unlimited training capacity. The dual 200 lb weight stacks ensure training for everyone, the quick adjust pulleys feature 19 different settings and allow the use of interchangeable accessories.

Solid Build

The features a heavy-duty mainframe construction that ensures that the trainer is built to be solid. The pulley system is extremely smooth, and the pull-up rig is of commercial grade.

Easy Adjustment

Almost every setting on the XMark fitness XM-7626 functional trainer is easy to change and adjust which helps reduce the amount of time spent on making the adjustments so that the user concentrates on the workout.

Pros and Cons

It is always important to weigh a product’s the pros against the cons to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Can be adjusted according to the needs of anyone in the household
• Made of durable and high-quality materials
• Settings are easy to change and adjust
• True isolateral-based movements allow a variety of options for muscle targeting as well as isolation

Cons

• Moving the pulley cartridges isn’t as smooth as it should be
• The material feels cheaper

All in all, the  XM-7626 functional trainer from XMark fitness is one of the best available on the market. It is a good choice for an all-in-one solution to get a workout in at home.

3. Inspire Fitness Scs Smith System / Cage System / Functional Trainer

The SCS System with Bench from Inspire Fitness is one of the best functional trainers available on the market. The trainer features a sturdy frame and construction and is easy to use.

This trainer is fully-loaded and features an SCS Bench and a preacher curl and leg extension that allows the user to get a full-body workout without the need to leave home.

Smooth Bearing System

This functional trainer from Inspire fitness features a precision steel ball bearing system that provides the user with a smooth and maintenance-free action that helps to have a better workout.

Unique Design

This SCS System with Bench functional trainer or cable cross features a unique design that integrates the Olympic bar as well as the weight stacks that easily eliminate the need to purchase additional Olympic weights.

The dual pulley system allows the user to adjust the cable cross in positions allowing unlimited training capacity.

Weight Multiplier

This functional trainer from Inspire Fitness features an innovative weight multiplier that helps double the maximum resistance for heavy lifters. The pull-up bar is also height adjustable that enables it to be used in low ceiling height.

Warranty

The Inspire fitness SCS System with Bench functional trainer comes with a limited lifetime warranty of 10 years on the frame as well as all the parts which is a good deal.

Pros and Cons

It is always important to weigh a product’s the pros against the cons to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Pros

• Precision steel ball bearing system provides smooth action
• Comes with numerous accessories
• The dual pulley system adjusts to different positions for optimal training
• Height adjustable pull-up bar
• Good warranty option

Cons

• Awkward when trying to perform squats or bench press

All in all, the Inspire fitness SCS System with Bench functional trainer is one of the best functional trainers available on the market. It is a good choice for those looking for an efficient, easy to use and durable trainer for all of their training needs.

4. BodyCraft HFT Functional Trainer Home Gym

The BodyCraft HFT functional trainer is one of the best available on the market. This trainer comes with a book with over 70 exercises for absolute beginners. The compact trainer can be placed anywhere in the room.

The BodyCraft HFT functional trainer features a 2:1 cable ratio that allows smooth action as well as a greater range of motion and helps improve the core, balance, and coordination.

Cable Column Pulleys

The BodyCraft HFT functional trainer comes with independent and adjustable column pulleys that allow 31 different height positions that rotate to 180 degrees and allows the user to train from any angle and height.

Weight Stack

The BodyCraft HFT functional trainer features dual 150 lb weight stacks. 2:1 is the weight stack to user weight ratio. The resistance allows smooth action and a good range of motion.

The functional trainer also features a flexible nylon-coated aircraft rated cable that can hold up to 2000 lbs.

Warranty

The product is warranted for light commercial and home use. For home use, the BodyCraft HFT functional trainer has a lifetime warranty on all parts. However, for light commercial use, this trainer features a 10-year warranty for the frame and a 2-year warranty for the parts.

Pros and Cons

It is always important to weigh a product’s the pros against the cons to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Pros

• The product is warranted for light commercial and home use
• Features a flexible nylon-coated aircraft rated cable that can hold up to 2000 lbs
• Column pulleys that allow 31 different height positions that rotate to 180 degrees
• 2:1 cable ratio that allows smooth action as well as a greater range of motion
• The resistance allows smooth action and a good range of motion
• Easy storage

Cons

• 150lbs will not be sufficient for heavy lifters

In summary, the BodyCraft HFT functional trainer is one of the best functional trainers available on the market. It is a good choice for those looking for a reliable and compact functional trainer for home.

5. Rep Multi-Grip Functional Trainer Cable Machine

This functional trainer from Rep fitness is one of the best available on the market. The trainer features a bigger weight stack, is made of heavy-duty and durable materials, and is a reliable option to choose from.

The heavy-duty functional trainer has a professional finish and allows 20 different cable positions ensuring a well-rounded workout—be it split training or full body.

Weight Stack

This functional trainer from Rep fitness features a weight stack bigger than most on this list. The 220 lbs weight stack allows the user to have the best possible resistance a functional trainer can offer.

Adjustment Options

The Rep Fitness functional trainer features a rotating panel with an exercising guide, has 10 hooks for easy storage of the attachments, allows 20 different cable positions, and has more pull-up grip angles which allow focus on arms and back.

Heavy-Duty Construction

This functional trainer from Rep fitness features an 11-gauge steel constructed frame which makes this trainer one of the most solid units available. The trainer also comes with larger and stronger pulleys that allow a smoother feel in cable resistance movements.

Pros and Cons

It is always important to weigh a product’s the pros against the cons to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Pros

• Features an 11-gauge steel constructed frame which makes this trainer one of the most solid units available
• 220 lbs weight stack allows the user to have the best possible resistance
• Has a professional finish and allows 20 different cable positions ensuring a well-rounded workout
• 10 hooks for easy storage of the attachments
• The resistance allows smooth action and a good range of motion
• Comes with larger and stronger pulleys that allow a smoother feel in cable resistance movements

Cons

• The movements can be a little jagged

To summarize, the Rep Fitness functional trainer is one of the best functional trainers available on the market. It is a good choice for those looking for a heavy-duty and easy to use trainer for home.

6. Powertec Fitness Functional Trainer Deluxe, Black

The Functional Trainer WB-FTD16 Deluxe from PowerTec Fitness is one of the best available on the market. The WB-FTD16 functional trainer is a new design that features an increased load capacity and has a two-stack weight system.

The trainer features a maximum load capacity of 100 lbs and has ring stoppers that don’t allow the weight carriages to move around a lot.

Materials Used

The Functional Trainer WB-FTD16 Deluxe from PowerTec Fitness is made of high-quality materials that are extremely durable and resistant. The twin tower structure provides easy, safe, and efficient access to the user.

Load Capacity

The PowerTec WB-FTD16 Deluxe functional trainer features a maximum load capacity of 1000 lbs which is a great option. The trainer also features Easy Load Slide Rods and Cable System that allow precise gliding and smooth operation.

The Ring Stoppers on this functional trainer help to stop the weights from travelling too far.

Warranty

This functional trainer from PowerTec Fitness features a lifetime warranty on the frame, 5-year warranty on moving parts, two-year warranty on components, and a one-year warranty on other unspecified parts.

Pros and Cons

It is always important to weigh a product’s the pros against the cons to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Pros

• Features a maximum load capacity of 1000 lbs
• Made of high-quality materials that are extremely durable and resistant
• Cable System that allow precise gliding and smooth operation
• Features Easy Load Slide Rods
• Ring Stoppers on this functional trainer help to stop the weights from travelling too far

Cons

• Chin-ups can’t be adjusted
• Awkward positions when squatting

To summarize, the PowerTec WB-FTD16 Deluxe functional trainer is one of the best available. It is a good choice for those looking for a easy to use trainer for all of their needs.

7. XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine with Dual 200 lb Weight Stacks

This functional trainer from XMark FItness is also one of the best functional trainers available on the market. The XM-7636 trainer comes with various accessories and is versatile to use.

This functional trainer features dual 200 lb weights and 19 quick adjust pulley settings that make compound movements easier to perform for people of all age groups.

Unlimited Training Possibilities

The XMark fitness XM-7636 functional trainer has an unlimited training capacity. The dual 200 lb weight stacks ensure training for everyone, the quick adjust pulleys feature 19 different settings and allow the use of interchangeable accessories.

Solid Build

The features a heavy-duty mainframe construction that ensures that the trainer is built to be solid. The pulley system is extremely smooth and the pull up rig is of commercial grade.

Easy Adjustment

Almost every setting on the XMark fitness XM-7636 functional trainer is easy to change and adjust which helps reduce the amount of time spent on making the adjustments so that the user concentrates on the workout.

Pros and Cons

It is always important to weigh a product’s the pros against the cons to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Can be adjusted according to the needs of anyone in the household
• Made of durable and high-quality materials
• Settings are easy to change and adjust
• True isolateral-based movements allow a variety of options for muscle targeting as well as isolation

Cons

• Moving the pulley cartridges isn’t as smooth as it should be
• The material feels cheaper

In summary, the XM-7636 functional trainer from XMark fitness is one of the best available on the market. It is a good choice for an all-in-one solution to get a workout in at home.

8. BodyCraft HFT Functional Trainer Home Gym 150 lb Stack

The Bodycraft HFT functional trainer is one of the best available on the market. The trainer features a mounted book that describes over 70 exercises that can be done using the machine.

Equipped with double stack weight of 150 lbs, this functional trainer allows smooth movement and good resistance to workout each and every part of the body effectively.

Cable Column Pulleys

The BodyCraft HFT functional trainer comes with independent and adjustable column pulleys that allow different height positions that rotate to 180 degrees and allows the user to train from any angle and height.

Weight Stack

The BodyCraft HFT functional trainer features dual 150 lb weight stacks. 2:1 is the weight stack to user weight ratio. The resistance allows smooth action and a good range of motion.

The functional trainer also features a flexible nylon-coated aircraft rated cable that can hold up to 1000 lbs.

Warranty

The product is warranted for light commercial and home use. For personal use, the BodyCraft HFT functional trainer has a lifetime warranty for all parts. For light commercial use, this trainer features a 10-year warranty for the frame and a 2-year warranty for the parts.

Pros and Cons

It is always important to weigh a product’s the pros against the cons to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Pros

• The product is warranted for light commercial and home use
• Features a flexible nylon-coated aircraft rated cable that can hold up to 2000 lbs
• Column pulleys that allow different height positions that rotate to 180 degrees
• 2:1 cable ratio that allows smooth action as well as a greater range of motion
• The resistance allows smooth action and a good range of motion

Cons

• 150lbs may not be sufficient for heavy lifters or more experienced people

In summary, the BodyCraft HFT functional trainer is one of the best functional trainers available on the market. It is a good choice for those looking for a good yet compact functional trainer.

9. Inspire Fitness Functional Trainer (Ft1)

The FT1 from inspire fitness is one of the best functional trainers available to buy on the market. This small and compact functional trainer fits in a corner and doesn’t take up too much space.

The trainer features two weight stacks of 150 lbs and features a magnetic pin for safety purposes. The trainer provide adequate resistance and a smooth range of motion.

Smooth Bearing System

This functional trainer from Inspire fitness features a precision steel ball bearing system that provides the user with a smooth and maintenance-free action that helps to have a better workout.

Innovative Weight Multiplier

This functional trainer from Inspire Fitness features an innovative weight multiplier that helps double the maximum resistance for heavy lifters. The pull up bar is also height adjustable that enables it to be used in low ceiling height.

Warranty

The Inspire fitness FT1 functional trainer comes with a limited lifetime warranty of 10 years on the frame as well as all the parts which is a good deal.

Pros and Cons

It is always important to weigh a product’s the pros against the cons to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Pros

• Precision steel ball bearing system provides smooth action
• Comes with numerous accessories
• The dual pulley system adjusts to 32 different positions for optimal training
• Height adjustable pull-up bar
• Storage provided

Cons

• Awkward when trying to perform squats or bench press

All in all, the Inspire fitness FT1 functional trainer is one of the best availabe. It is a good choice for those looking for an efficient, easy to use and durable trainer for all of their training needs.

10. Body-Solid Best Fitness BFFT10 Functional Trainer

The BFFT10 functional trainer from Body-Solid is also one of the best available to buy. This functional trainer is rather simple and a good choice for beginners as it features a single weight stack.

A number of compound movements can be made using this trainer and it will provide the user with a good arm and back workout.

Weight Stack

The BFFT10 functional trainer from Body-Solid features a 190 lb weight stack which is more than sufficient. It also features a high-quality build and is an affordable functional trainer.

Positions

The BFFT10 functional trainer comes with an adjustable pulley system which swivels 180 degrees allowing the user to have a variety of starting positions. The cable change design is also efficient and easy to switch.

Warranty

This functional trainer from Body-Solid comes with a 3-year warranty on the frame and a one-year warranty on all other parts. This warranty is applicable only of the trainer has been used for non-commercial or family use.

Pros and Cons

It is always important to weigh a product’s the pros against the cons to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Pros

• Adjustable pulley system which swivels 180 degrees allowing the user to have a variety of starting positions
• Features a 190 lb weight stack which is more than sufficient
• Simple and a good choice for beginners
• Compact and doesn’t take up a lot of space
• Features a high-quality build and is an affordable functional trainer

Cons

• Doesn’t feature double-stack weights
• Adjustments aren’t easy to make
• Doesn’t feature equipment for chin-ups

In summary, the Body-Solid BFFT10 functional trainer is one of the best available. It is a good pick for beginners who wish to try resistance training without paying hefty gym membership fees.