Functional Trainer Buying Made Easy: 5 Key Factors to Consider

A functional trainer lets you move in all directions and copy everyday movements.

One good thing about it is that it helps you repeat movements over and over again. Which is why athletes and sports clubs like it.

If you’re curious to learn more about functional trainers and how to choose the right one. Check out the Trojan Fitness Buying Guide below.

It’s packed with useful tips and advice to help you find the perfect functional trainer for your fitness needs.

5 Things To Look For When Buying a Functional Trainer

When you’re buying a functional trainer, think about

• How do you train, and why?
• Can it help make your workouts even better?

Here we’ve listed the top 5 things to check when you’re getting a new functional trainer machine.

1) Functionality ─ What it Does

Make sure it’s really functional. Just because it’s called a “Functional Trainer” doesn’t mean it always works well and lives up to its name. A good functional trainer always lets you train multiple muscle groups at the same time, known as compound exercises.

Ideally, it should have:

1. Spotter arms for safety.
2. J-hooks to hold bars securely.
3. A chin-up bar for upper body strength.
4. A Smith machine for different exercises.
5. Adjustable dual cables to change resistance.
6. A landmine attachment for varied workouts.
7. Storage for keeping attachments organized.

You should be able to do a full-body workout with it easily and comfortably.

2) Resistance Systems – How it Gives Resistance

Functional trainers can have different types of resistance systems, such as pin-loaded or plate-loaded.

1. With pin-loaded systems, users adjust the weight by inserting a pin into a stack of pre-loaded weights.
2. On the other hand, plate-loaded systems allow users to manually add or remove weight plates to adjust resistance.

There’s no strict rule about how the machine is weighted. But a few differences can affect your workout. The choice between pin-loaded and plate-loaded systems can impact aspects of your workout such as

1. Ease of use,
2. Range of motion, and
3. Overall effectiveness.

Therefore, understanding these differences can help you select the functional trainer that best suits your fitness goals and preferences.

Which is better: Plate Loaded or Pin Loaded resistance?

Type 1: Pin Loaded Functional Trainers

These machines use a pin to adjust the weight of the cables. They’re quick and easy to use. They have a pre-loaded weight stack, usually ranging from 60kg to 90kg.

This is great for fast-paced workouts or super settings. Pin-loaded trainers with compact steel weight stacks are heavier, which adds stability.

Type 2: Plate-loaded Functional Trainers

The biggest advantage of these trainers is that you can load them with multiple weight plates of different weights.

You can start light and go heavy. Which is great for many users.

They offer good value for money and let you use the same weights on the Smith machine as on the functional trainer.

3) Functional Trainer Layout ─ How it’s Designed

The way a functional trainer is set up can affect how you work out.

For instance, if it only has one weight stack for the cables. You will not be able to do as many exercises and only one person can use it at a time.

But if it has two weight stacks (a dual-stack). You can work out both sides of your body evenly. These dual stacks can be put on either side or at the back of the machine, depending on what you prefer.

Another important thing to consider is how comfortable your bench will be in the machine. Benches come in different shapes and sizes. So, you should always check if your bench fits well in different positions before buying a new functional trainer.

Some trainers come with a specific bench that fits perfectly with the design. If you have the option to get one of these. It’s a good idea because it will make your workouts more effective.

4) Functional Trainer Quality ─ How Well It’s Built

Quality matters a lot. The most important thing about a good functional trainer is how well its pulleys, cables and frame are made.

A top-notch machine should have pulleys with sealed bearings. Which makes the cables feel smooth and responsive. Also, check for thick PVC-coated rubber cables that can handle at least 2,000 lbs of weight.

When you’re buying a functional trainer. It’s best if the frame is made of 2-3mm thick steel. This gives it strong support. Especially when you’re using the squat rack arms for barbell exercises.

Make sure the hardware, like bolts and nuts, is sturdy too. Look for M10 – M12 bolts combined with nylon lock nuts to keep everything tight, even during tough workouts.

A strong frame is only as good as its coating. Look for a functional trainer with a well-applied powder coating and paint finish. Make sure the paint is even and thick, with no flaking around the edges. This ensures durability and long-lasting quality.

5) Extra Add-Ons You Get – What’s Included in Functional Trainer?

When you’re getting a functional trainer, you want to get the best value for your money. It’s not just about the price. But also about the quality and variety of exercises you can do.

There are different attachments you can get for your gym cables, like D handles and T-bar rows. Make sure to check for other attachments and bars that can add to your workout.

If you’re doing heavy lifts with the LAT pulldown attachment. It’s good to have the option of using a knee pad attachment to help stabilize your body.

Some machines also come with a special bar called a functional trainer bar. That’s the same length as the distance between the pulleys. This is useful for exercises like

• Curls
• Deadlifts
• Upright rows

Ideally, all cable attachments should work with your functional trainer.

If your current setup doesn’t have these attachments. Look for packages that include them when you’re buying the machine. This way, you’ll save money and have more exercise options right from the start.

Best Functional Trainer Australia | Top 3 Recommendations 

Do you want to buy functional trainer for your home gym?

If you’re considering adding a functional trainer to your home gym, check out our top 3 recommendations.

1. Functional Trainer Smith Machine Power Rack Inc Leg Press Attachment

Shop Here

Mega Deal: $1,999.99

The Trojan TFRPR70LP All-in-One Smith Functional Trainer is the perfect choice for your home gym needs. It’s designed to be multipurpose and easy to use, making it suitable for fitness enthusiasts of all levels.

With its LEG PRESS plate, it’s great for anyone worried about space, measuring just 2167 mm tall. You’ll love the power rack for squats and chin-ups. Plus, the cable crossover setup is fantastic for working different muscles.

What’s really impressive is its strength. It can handle up to 555 lbs with the Smith Barbell System and up to 800 lbs with the cable system. Plus, it focuses on core muscles, which improves balance and reduces injury risk.

You can expand your workout even more with optional Jammer Arms, and it comes with lots of accessories like dip handles and a multi-grip chin-up bar. With the Trojan TFRPR70LP, you’ll have everything you need for a full-body workout right at home.

2. Power Rack Cable Cross Lat Pull Down Functional Trainer Dips Seated Row + Torsonator

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Mega Deal: $1,599.99

The Trojan Power Rack Cable Cross & Lat Pull Down is your go-to machine for home workouts. It offers a wide range of features and benefits to cater to all your strength and conditioning needs.

Equipped with an adjustable pulley system, this machine allows you to easily adapt your workouts to target different muscle groups. Whether you’re performing LAT pulldowns, cable crossovers, or other exercises, you can customize the resistance to suit your strength level.

One standout feature is its optional Jammer Arms. These arms provide additional attachment points for accessories, allowing for even more exercise variety and intensity.

With its sturdy construction, including a robust steel frame and commercial-grade cables. This functional trainer cable machine is built to handle your toughest workouts. Safety features such as J Hooks and Spotters ensure peace of mind during heavy lifting sessions.

Despite its durability, it is designed to be space-saving, making it ideal for home gyms or fitness studios with limited space. Plus, it comes with a good warranty, so you can trust that it’ll keep working well for a long time.

In short, the Trojan Power Rack is perfect for anyone who wants a convenient and effective way to get fit at home.

3. All in One Trainer 90XPRO Smith Functional Trainer 1:1 & 2:1 Cable Ratio

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Mega Deal: $4,850.00

Introducing the Trojan FPR90GXPRO ®™, a versatile multi functional trainer that’s perfect for home workouts. It’s designed to make your exercise routine easy and effective with adjustable weight. This compact functional trainer fits well in small spaces.

With its Dual Adjustable Pulley System, you can easily switch between different weight options, making it suitable for users of all strengths and abilities. Plus, it comes with safety features to keep you protected during your workouts.

You can do a variety of exercises with this machine, targeting different muscle groups in your body. It comes with lots of accessories, like the Trojan FID/GT Bench and Lat Pull-Down Seat, to help you customize your workout even more.

Overall, the Trojan FPR90GXPRO ®™ is a great investment for anyone looking to improve their fitness at home. With its simple design and versatile features, it’s sure to become your new favourite piece of workout equipment.

Upgrade Your Home Gym with Trojan’s Functional Trainers

Are in search of functional trainer for sale?

You are at the right place.

Trojan Fitness functional trainer Perth offers endless possibilities for your home gym. From full-body exercises to targeted muscle workouts, our trainers have you covered.

Don’t miss out!

Take your home gym to the next level and experience the benefits of functional training today!

Shop Functional Trainers Now

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