8 Best Functional Trainers For Home Gym In 2024

Furnishing your home gym sounds like an exciting project until you actually start doing it and realize how long it will take you to sift through all the equipment that’s available and find what’s going to fit your home gym. Well, you won’t have to spend as much time trying to find the best functional trainer, because this article has 8 superb ones.

A functional trainer can transform any space into a comprehensive workout zone. They’re not just about lifting weights; they elevate your entire fitness routine. You can push, pull, squat, and stretch your way to the best shape of your life, all inside your personal space. Functional trainers are designed to adapt to you and allow you to progress at your pace, which makes them a great investment for anyone serious about their health and fitness. 

Let’s get into the functional trainer reviews and see what the best ones have to offer. 

Diving in!

Top 8 Best Functional Trainers in 2023 Reviewed

1. TITAN FITNESS Plate Loaded Functional Trainer  – Top Pick
2. REP FITNESS FT-300 Compact Functional Trainer 2.0 – Runner Up
3. REP FITNESS Ares Builder – Best Cable Attachment
4. MARCY Pro Smith Cage – With Smith Machine
5. MIKOLO Smith Machine – All-in-one Functional Trainer
6. TITAN FITNESS Nemesis – With Single Stack
7. ROGUE FT-1 Functional Trainer – Premium Pick
8. BODY-SOLID Functional Trainer –Best Budget

Product	Total	Durability	Versatility	Adjustability	Convenience In Use	Price/Quality
TITAN FITNESS Plate	49.5	10	10	10	9.5	10
REP FITNESS FT-300	49	10	10	10	9.5	9.5
REP FITNESS Ares	48	10	10	9	10	9
MARCY	47.5	9.5	10	9.5	9	9.5
MIKOLO	46.5	10	10	8.5	9	9
TITAN FITNESS Nemesis	46	9.5	9	9	9.5	9
ROGUE	45.5	10	9.5	9	9	8
BODY-SOLID	45.5	9	9	9	8.5	10

Titan’s Plate Loaded Functional Trainer has it all: robust build, versatility, and an excellent price. This is excellent value for money and it will fit perfectly into any home gym.

This functional trainer machine offers a wide range of exercises that target various muscle groups. From pulldowns that work your lower and middle back muscles to low-row exercises that engage your forearms, this trainer is a comprehensive approach to fitness. 

The weight plate capacity is 600 lbs, so you’ll have more than enough room for growth and progression. This capacity allows you to do pulldowns, flies, squats, lunges, twists, and more. It’s a multifunctional powerhouse for anyone who wants full-body workouts. 

You’ll be able to seamlessly transition between different exercises thanks to the inclusion of dual stirrup handles, a lat bar, and a low-row handle. This will make your workouts super efficient, but it will also encourage you to explore diverse movements and not just stick to one type of routine. 

The lower cables are designed to introduce horizontal force into regular activities, such as lunges, squats, and step-ups, which gives a new dimension to conventional exercises and makes your training sessions more dynamic. 

The trainer is made of steel and finished with a sleek black and silver design. It will last you a long time and will look great in your gym. 

You’ll need to set aside a few hours to assemble it though. The instruction manual that’s included is a little bit vague, so you’ll probably need to hop on YouTube and watch a video or two to be able to finish the assembly. But once you do, you’ll wonder how your gym ever did without this trainer.

The FT-3000 2.0 is a versatile functional trainer for the home gym. It has commercial-grade capabilities but remains pretty compact. The trolley design has been revamped and features a streamlined construction and improvements like pre-lubricated uprights and laser-etched cable column markings.

With 21 cable positions and dual-weight stacks that offer a 2:1 ratio, you’ll feel like you’re lifting heavier weights without straining your limits.

This functional trainer cable machine has some features that you can find only on premium models, like a magnetic-tipped pin that locks the weights in place for stability during workouts, and an additional pin to secure the trolley for added safety.

The frame is very durable and has a double-coated chip-resistant finish and matte black exterior. The smooth aluminum pulleys add to the overall quality, and the added welded ring makes attaching a carabiner effortless and offers multiple grip options.

The package includes polymer D handles, attachment storage pegs, incremental weights, and an instructional placard. All of this is meant to make transitions between exercises smooth. 

The only thing that’s a bit of a downer is that the cables occasionally slide past the rollers, so that seamless workout experience Rep was going for sometimes gets interrupted.

Being named after the god of war, you’re probably expecting a beast of a machine – and you’re completely right. This robust cable attachment has patent-pending trolleys, can be easily adjusted, and offers a hassle-free workout experience.

This multifunctional attachment has dual weight stacks and offers either 260 lbs or an optional upgrade to a robust 310 lbs per stack. The Ares is made for dynamic workouts and has swiveling front pulleys for expanded motion both within and outside the rack confines. The hot-rolled steel plates with a machined finish guarantee consistent weight and effortless engagement with a magnetized pin. 

The metallic black shroud gives visibility to moving weights, and the stainless steel Rep logo and laser-cut windows add a bit of style into equipment that’s otherwise focused on functionality and performance. With a 2:1 ratio, it perfectly caters to the demands of functional training and allows progressive resistance. 

Now, onto the things that are not that great, especially compared to these premium features. First – the weight. It is extremely heavy, and once you assemble it, you can forget ever moving it because it weighs 965 lbs. Secondly, the price is substantial, so make sure your home gym will really benefit from this before making the investment.

Marcy’s Pro Smith Cage is an all-in-one gym solution that packs the functionalities of three different strength-building machines into a single piece of equipment. Its frame is heavy duty, and although its powder coating starts chipping rather soon, the cage itself seems durable.

This comprehensive system is essentially a functional trainer with Smith machine, Olympic free-weight rack, and a cable pulley system. It offers a unique cable cross dual pulley system that’s perfect for functional exercises mimicking sports-specific movements and daily tasks.

It also has an off-the-floor base, an adjustable bench back and seat pad, a preacher curl station, leg developer station, and a footplate for seated rows. This is great value for money because you get a lot of stuff included in the order. 

Its footprint is more than reasonable for a piece of equipment that’s so packed with features, and it’s not too heavy. The padded places are comfortable, and the padding holds its shape well. The only thing that could be an issue is the material that goes over the padding – it’s pretty thin and seems like it will tear up soon, so try to be careful when you work out.

Mikolo’s Smith Machine is precisely made to optimize the limited space most home gyms struggle with. It’s an exceptional all in one functional trainer that has an array of features that cater to different workout needs and cleverly saves space by allowing you to conveniently store bars and handles.

This space-saving feature may seem like a small addition, but it’s nice to see how dedicated Mikolo is to user convenience.

This equipment integrates a power cage, Smith machine, cable crossover machine, cable station, and a pull-up station, which results in an all-in-one platform that offers a bunch of exercise options. 

The machine is made of commercial-grade steel tubes measuring 50mm x 50mm. It’s robust and durable, with additions like the 12 connecting triangle pieces for stability. The design is thoughtful, and it’s obvious that Mikolo wanted to make a piece of equipment that’s reliable and heavy duty but still easy and safe to use. 

The weight capacity is impressive, and you can make your workouts as intense as you want without being concerned about the machine losing its integrity – it will remain stable no matter what exercises you decide to do. 

There are, of course, a few little things that could be improved to make this an even better piece of equipment. The pulley system’s handles are difficult to adjust to higher positions and you’ll notice you need to put some real work into it.

This is not a manufacturing error, and if you contact Mikolo, they’ll let you know that that’s just how it is. You may have some issues if you’re very tall because the lat pulldown bar is placed rather low, which can limit your range of motion.

The Nemesis offers quite a few exercise options within its compact footprint. It’s made of high-grade steel and includes all the essential accessories, like the long and short bars, a waist strap, dual stirrup handles, and an ankle strap.

This compact functional trainer has nine vertical arm angle positions, spanning 180 degrees, and three horizontal arm angle positions in 5-degree increments. This kind of adaptability is great to see, and it will allow you to explore over 1000 unique training positions.

Each arm is independent and ensures that you can do explosive strength training exercises with unparalleled freedom and customization. Also, the 4:1 split weight cabling system allows for increased cable travel and promotes smoother workouts. 

It can be used by people of all fitness levels, although the weight capacity is on the lower end, so even though this will be an attractive option for beginners, it’s doubtful a lot of advanced athletes will choose Nemesis to add to their home gyms. Still, this trainer is a fantastic way to establish a foundational routine and it will allow you to progress up to a point.

If you want to treat yourself to something high-end and luxurious, then FT-1 is going to be an excellent choice. It offers a professional-grade setup and with it you can do virtually any cable movement at the comfort of your home.

Its dual CT-1 Cable Tower stations are linked by a 43’’ Monster Crossmember, which makes it compact – a huge plus for any home gym. You also have an option to buy some additional storage shelves which, although they’re an added expense, save a ton of space and keep your gym free of clutter. 

The unit’s swiveling single-handle pulley assembly, accompanied by 16 height adjustment settings, makes your workouts dynamic and tailored to your preferences. The 3x3’’ 11-gauge steel CT-1 units were made at the Reflex Fitness facility in Iowa and have meticulously crafter 6’’ aluminum pulleys, a ¼’’ military-specification nylon-jacketed cable, and a classic MG Black powder-coat finish.

This coating is known for having durability issues and being prone to chipping, but that’s not the case with the powder coating on Rogue’s FT-1 – it’s just as high-quality as the rest. 

There are downsides to it, of course. With a premium piece comes premium price, and the FT-1 is by far the most expensive piece of equipment on the list. The good thing is, Rogue works with Affirm, so you can pay for it in installments. Another thing that is a bit of an issue is the weight – at 1600 lbs, this trainer is extremely heavy, so forget about ever even trying to move it.

Our list finishes with the budget functional trainer. This is a great way to upgrade your home gym without breaking the bank and having to spend forever paying it off. You still get a quality piece of equipment that will give you a good workout and efficiently target various muscle groups.

This trainer is made of steel and is very stable. If you decide to get it, you’re going to have it for years. It has a 190-pound weight stack that allows you to do different exercises and target your chest, shoulders, arms, etc. You can tailor the workout regimen to your preferences and there’s also plenty of room for progress. 

It's very compact and will fit into even the smallest home gyms, and since it weighs only 330 lbs, you’ll be able to move it if you have to. 

The adjustable pulleys offer a lot of flexibility and swivel a full 180 degrees. You can seamlessly go from one exercise to the other and you won’t feel like your flow is interrupted because you won’t have the need for cable changes. This gives you a lot of starting positions and improves versatility.

Safety is a big deal with this machine – rounded stack pulleys make sure you’re comfortable and textured loading pins prevent slippage and maintain proper exercise form. The adjustable lat bar is another highlight and allows for a full range of motion. 
Unfortunately, it comes without a manual, so it will be difficult to put together, especially if it is the first functional trainer you’re encountering.

There’s also the issue of cables sometimes twisting which only adds to the complexity. Moreover, while the adjustability is generally excellent, there are minor limitations in range/ease of adjustment that prevent it from having a perfect score in the “adjustability” category.

What Is a Functional Trainer?

In short, a functional trainer is a comprehensive system designed to enable a wide range of exercises and allow you to do full-body workouts. Even if you’ve never owned or used one of them, their looks are easily recognizable. They have handles, bars, and cable attachments that you can use to do an extensive array of movements and target various muscle groups. 

One of the most important features of a functional trainer is its adaptability to mimic natural, everyday movements and sport-specific actions; it promotes functional fitness, which is why it’s called the way it is. 

Its beauty lies in the capacity to cater to people of all fitness levels and goals, so it’s a platform for rehabilitation, strength training, and conditioning, among other things. By employing multidirectional cable pulleys, you can do exercises that include multiple planes of motion, which not only affects the strength of your muscles but also improves stability, coordination, and overall mobility. 

5 Benefits of Working Out on a Functional Trainer

Traditional gym equipment is great, but a functional cable machine offers versatility that’s hard to match, and functional training it offers has a lot of benefits, even for older adults. If you want a comprehensive workout experience, investing in one of these may be ideal. 

✅ Better Functional Strength

Functional trainers allow you to do dynamic movements that essentially mimic real-life activities. They improve functional strength, reduce risk of injury,  and enable you to do everyday tasks (like carrying groceries, moving furniture, holding your children, etc.) easier and more efficiently. Since you’re engaging multiple muscle groups at the same time, you’ll build strength and improve coordination and stability. 

✅ Improved Joint Stability and Flexibility

Using a functional trainer involves exercises that encourage joint mobility and stability. The variety of movements these machines support helps make your joints more flexible and improves the overall health of your joints. It can also improve your range of motion and reduce stiffness. 

✅ Core Strengthening

The core is vital when it comes to keeping the body stable and balanced, so you always want to pay some attention to it while you work out. Functional trainers are a good way to do that because they offer a number of exercises that engage the core, including the abs, obliques, and lower back muscles. A strong core can improve your posture and balance as well as reduce the risk of back pain. 

✅ Mental Well-Being

Exercise in general can do a lot of good for your mental health, and working out on a functional trainer is no exception. Regular workouts release endorphins, which are the natural “feel-good” hormones that reduce stress, anxiety, and improve your mood. 

✅ Cardiovascular Health and Increased Calorie Burn

Functional training has many health benefits, and it can contribute to better cardiovascular health by increasing your heart rate and improving your fitness level. It’s also more effective for weight loss than traditional strength training and can help you both lose and manage your weight.

What to Look for In the Best Functional Trainer?

Functional trainers aren’t known for being super affordable, so you should take your time and do some research to know exactly what you’re investing into. Online user reviews are always a good source of information, but don’t focus solely on what people have to say. 

There are a few factors you should pay attention to before deciding to spend your money on a new functional trainer, so let’s go over them. 

1. Durability

Durability is one of the most important aspects because you want to make sure your functional trainer will last you for years. Look for a trainer made of high-quality materials, like steel frames and robust alloys. 

2. Pulley/Cable System

This is the core of every functional trainer, so make sure to choose one that has a reliable pulley system and operates seamlessly. High-grade pulleys and aircraft-grade cables are always a good choice because they contribute to a consistent, fluid motion throughout exercises, and reduce the risk of malfunctions. 

3. Weight Stack

The weight stack’s capacity and increments should suit your fitness level and allow you to progress. Choose a functional trainer that has an adjustable weight stack and offers enough resistance levels, preferably in smaller increments. This is going to ensure that the machine is versatile and scalable enough to match different workout intensities. 

4. Load Capacity & Floor Requirements

While not directly talking about your functional trainer, this is one factor that you absolutely must think of. Otherwise, it’ll hurt you in the long run. When you’re selecting a functional trainer, consider the load capacity of your floor. This refers to the weight of the equipment, and whether the floor can take the load.

Buy beyond just safety – you don't want the floor getting damaged over time. The above is especially true if you plan on placing the functional trainer on an upper floor or a surface with any weight limitations/restrictions.

5. Versatility

The best functional trainers are versatile, and you can use them for a wide range of exercises and movements. Look for something with various attachment points, handles, and accessories. 

6. Attachment Availability

Versatile equipment should allow you to use various add-ons, like handles, bars, straps, and specialty attachments, so you can customize and expand the number of exercises you can do. Check if the functional trainer you have your eye on can handle all the attachments you’re interested in using. 

7. Price/Quality

Make sure that the functional trainer meets your fitness needs and aligns with your budget. Cost is definitely a factor, and you shouldn’t go into debt trying to buy fitness equipment, but you still need a durable and high-quality trainer that can handle long-term use. 

FAQ

Is Functional Training Strength or Cardio?

Functional training is all about building strength, flexibility, and coordination through exercises that mimic real-life movements. It emphasizes strength development, but the nature of the exercises will elevate your heart rate and provide some cardiovascular benefits, too. Essentially, it’s a blend of both strength and cardio elements. 

Can You Build Muscle With a Functional Trainer?

Yes, you definitely can. Functional trainers offer adjustable resistance and allow you to do various exercises that target multiple muscle groups, which means that you can develop your muscles and improve overall functional fitness. 

Is a Functional Trainer Worth It?

If you’re looking for a piece of equipment that’s versatile and efficient, then a functional trainer is worth it. It’s adaptable, multi-functional, and able to mimic real-life movements. 

Conclusion

Functional trainers are versatile, effective, and compact – everything you would want for a home gym! Yes, they can be pricey, and they’re not known for being super affordable, but it’s an investment that is well worth the money. 

If you’re in the market for a new functional trainer, we wholeheartedly recommend the TITAN FITNESS Plate Loaded Functional Trainer.

What made you interested in functional trainers? Have you ever used or owned one? What do you think is its best feature and why?

We can’t wait to read your comments and discuss this topic further!

Happy functional exercising!

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• Best Home Weight Lifting Equipment
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• Best Compact Workout Equipment
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• How Much Does a Home Gym Cost

References:

1. Lauren Bedosky, “Functional Strength Training: Definition, Health Benefits, and How to Get Started,” Everyday Health https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/functional-strength-training/guide/ (accessed December 7th, 2023)
2. Michael Keiner, Björn Kadlubowski, Andre Sander, Hagen Hartmann, Klaus Wirth, “Effects of 10 Months of Speed, Functional, and Traditional Strength Training on Strength, Linear Sprint, Change of Direction, and Jump Performance in Trained Adolescent Soccer Players,” Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 36, no. 8 (2022): 2236-2246.
3. Ozkan Guler, Oguzhan Tuncel and Antonino Bianco, “Effects of Functional Strength Training on Functional Movement and Balance in Middle-Aged Adults,” Sustainability 13, no. 3 (2021): 1074.
4. Sghair Zouita, Amira B M Zouita, Wiem Kebsi, Grégory Dupont, Abderraouf Ben Abderrahman, Fatma Z Ben Salah, Hassane Zouhal, “Strength Training Reduces Injury Rate in Elite Young Soccer Players During One Season,” Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 30, no. 5 (2016): 1295-1307
5. Yulieth Rivas-Campo, Diego Fernando Afanador-Restrepo, Patricia Alexandra García-Garro, Gloria Cecilia Vega-Ávila, Agustín Aibar-Almazán, Yolanda Castellote-Caballero, María del Carmen Carcelén Fraile, María Leyre Lavilla- Lerma, Carlos Rodríguez-López, “Effects of High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) on the Functional Capacity, Frailty, and Physical Condition of Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Blind Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial,” Life 13, no. 5 (2023): 1224.