The Best Functional Trainers to Add Variety to Your Home Gym Equipment

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Functional trainers are on the rise, and for good reason. Not only can functional trainers give you a full-body workout, but these machines take up minimal space, making them a smart (and space-saving) addition to your home gym. But how do they work? A functional trainer is a versatile piece of fitness equipment often made with multiple cable pulleys (usually two) and various cable attachments that allow you to perform different resistance training exercises. Most directional movements, such as curls and flys, are possible on a functional trainer. You can also completely customize your workout by targeting one major muscle group or exercising your entire body in one sitting.

Rather than filling your home gym with multiple weight machines (and losing precious space), a functional trainer can serve as a one-stop shop for all resistance training needs. In our comprehensive guide to the best functional trainers, you’ll learn what types are available in 2024 and how to find the best machine for your needs. We’ll also dive into why functional trainers are beneficial, how to use them and what to consider before making a purchase.

Our Picks for the Best Functional Trainers of 2024:

• Best Overall Functional Trainer: REP Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer
• Best Smart Functional Trainer: Tonal
• Best Budget Functional Trainer: REP Fitness FT-3000 Functional Trainer
• Best Portable Functional Trainer: TRX Home2 System
• Best Interactive Functional Trainer: NordicTrack Fusion CST
• Best Versatile Functional Trainer: Force USA G6 All-in-One Functional Trainer
• Best Functional Trainer for Garage Gyms: Titan Fitness Functional Trainer

Best Value Functional Trainer: REP Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer

Key Features:

• Built to last
• Multiple pull-up grips
• Dimensions: 45 inches L x 84 inches H x 72 inches W
• Weight: 1,001 pounds
• Best for: Durability, serious lifters and getting the best bang for your buck
• $2,499.99

Pros:

• Commercial-grade cable strength
• Storage pegs for organizing cable handles
• 11-gauge steel frame for increased durability

Cons:

• Weight range not heavy enough for Olympic lifting
• Lightest weight can be too heavy for isolation exercises
• Requires two hours of assembly with two people

REP Fitness FT-5000 is a heavy-duty functional trainer that’s designed to last. With commercial-grade cable strength and an 11-gauge steel frame, you can count on this machine to remain durable for many years to come (with proper care and use, of course). Featuring multi-grips for pull-ups from all angles, two weight stacks that each reach 220 pounds and steel plates for enhanced weight accuracy, this functional trainer is best for serious lifters and trainers seeking out a precise, reinforced workout. It also features 16 cable positions and includes a placard that demonstrates 12 movements that you can do on the machine.

For its enhanced design, we’ve ranked REP Fitness FT-5000 as our best value functional trainer because the machine is double-coated with a chip-resistant, electrostatic powder and topped with a black metallic finish. Not only does it give the functional trainer a sleek, clean look, but it prevents it from getting easily damaged. Still, this machine weighs in at a whopping 1,001 pounds, so it’s important to ensure it’s a good fit for both your home gym and your fitness needs before making a purchase. It also ships partially assembled and requires two hours of assembly that the brand recommends two people work on together. That being said, the frame comes with an impressive lifetime warranty, so you can feel confident in your purchase. (Note: Parts like pulleys, pop-pins and cables have only a one-year warranty, so be sure to flag any issues as soon as possible).

Best Smart Functional Trainer: Tonal

Key features:

• Takes up nearly no floor space
• Smart accessories allow for wireless resistance training
• Dimensions: 21.5 inches W x 50.9 inches H
• Weight: 150 pounds
• Best for: Smart technology enthusiasts and those with limited space
• $3,995
• Membership price: $59.95

Pros:

• Personal trainer-led workouts with a Tonal membership
• Can be used for yoga, cardio and other fitness classes
• Tracks reps, sets, range of motion, time and more

Cons:

• Smart accessory bundle costs an additional $495
• Three-year limited warranty is relatively short and doesn’t cover software malfunctions
• Requires wall installation, which can damage walls

Tonal is an ultra high-tech piece of home fitness equipment that hangs right on your wall and takes up almost zero horizontal space. Smart home gym enthusiasts will love this functional trainer for its wireless workouts and resistance training programs that utilize Bluetooth technology to turn digital weight on and off. You simply click a button on the smart handles and smart bar to adjust your weight. This also allows you to get into proper position and form before beginning to lift.

Its revolutionary technology makes Tonal a great fit for higher-end home gyms and those looking for personal trainer-led workouts, since Tonal has an optional membership program that offers more than 60 programs and more than 1,000 live and on-demand classes. The machine also tracks your workouts digitally with performance metrics that include reps, sets, power, range of motion and more, allowing you to see how your strength and speed improves over time.

Still, despite its forward-thinking approach, Tonal isn’t for everyone. This functional trainer allows for lifting up to 200 pounds in digital resistance, which meets most basic weight lifting needs, but still might not be enough for heavy lifters. It’s also extremely costly—the machine alone costs $3,495, which includes professional installation in your home. Yet this price doesn’t include the necessary smart accessory bundle, which costs an additional $495 for smart handles, a smart bar, a rope, a bench, a roller and a workout mat. On top of that, you’ll have to pay $49 per month for a Tonal membership for full access to guided workouts. While you can still use the machine without a membership for basic resistance training, it may not be worth the cost.

Best Budget Functional Trainer: REP Fitness FT-3000

Key features:

• Commercial grade quality, still fits through home doorways
• Dimensions: 78 inches (H) x 53 inches (W) x 34 inches (D)
• Weight: 770 pounds
• Best for: Those looking for a commercial-like functional trainer setup for their home gym
• $2,149.99
• Max effective load per side: 90 pounds
• Min effective load per side: 10 pounds

Pros:

• Heavy duty machine is great for all fitness levels
• Easy and intuitive to use
• Chip resistant and powder coated
• Sturdy

Cons:

• May not provide enough resistance/weight for heavier lifting

If you've been looking for a heavy duty, sturdy and multi-use functional trainer, REP Fitness' FT-3000 may be the perfect addition to your home gym setup. Yes, you'll have to give up some floor space to make room for this trainer but with thoughtful touches that include built-in storage pegs for different types of handles, you'll still have plenty of room for your other equipment. REP Fitness also designed the FT-3000 for ultimate ease of use thanks to a pin that lets you adjust the weight load with one hand. Curious what the main differences are between this trainer and REP Fitness' FT-5000 model? We've got you covered.

One key difference between this model and the FT-5000 is size. The FT-3000 model is designed to be compact and fit through a standard doorway while the FT-5000 measures in at 84 inches (H) x 72 inches (W) x 45 inches (D). The FT-5000 also offers up to 16 different cable positions while the FT-3000 offers 15 and the larger model comes with a built-in pull up bar which the FT-3000 lacks.

REP Fitness offers a lifetime warranty on the frame of the FT-3000 and a one year warranty on hardware, pop-pins, pulleys and cables for both residential and commercial use. Several reviewers note that the FT-3000 is "built like a tank" while offering up smooth movements during workouts.

Best Portable Functional Trainer: TRX Home2 System

Key Features:

• Sets up in seconds
• Comes with a lightweight carrying bag
• Dimensions: 50 inches L x 0.1 inch H x 1.97 inches W
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Best for: On-the-go workouts
• $229.95

Pros:

• Carrying case fits in most gym bags or purses
• Supports users who weigh up to 350 pounds
• Suitable for all fitness levels

Cons:

• Can be flimsy at times
• May hurt hands after extended use
• Not beginner-friendly

It may come as a surprise, but not all functional trainers are large machines that are virtually locked in place once they’re set up. Instead, there are portable functional trainers like the TRX Home2 System that you can take anywhere with you, whether that’s to the gym or on vacation. This portable functional trainer works by using your own bodyweight as resistance; you simply anchor the two straps over a door, then pull or push on the handles. This home suspension training system, which packs up in a carrying case as small as a loaf of bread, is an excellent choice for busy people on the go or those who travel often. It can easily fit in a suitcase, backpack or even purse for workout options anywhere, anytime. Even though this functional trainer weighs less than two pounds, it can support users weighing up to 350 pounds.

Still, TRX training isn’t easy unless you know what you’re doing. It’s recommended that beginners watch videos on how to use the system to learn which exercises are possible and how; otherwise, it can be complicated. Once you get the hang of it, however, TRX training can be a breeze. Nonetheless, the system does come with drawbacks. Some users report that this functional trainer can be flimsy, since it isn’t supported by a base or mounts. Pulling and pushing on the handles can also hurt your hands or feet after extended use, so you may want to wear weightlifting gloves or good training shoes if you plan on doing long workouts. While you can do crunches and sit-ups with this system, you may want to consider purchasing an ab roller wheel to work your core if these workouts prove too difficult on your knees, elbows or joints.

Best Budget Functional Trainer: NordicTrack Fusion CST

Key Features:

• Offers monthly payment installments
• Silent magnetic resistance for quiet workouts
• Dimensions: 41.5 inches L x 73.5 inches H x 60.5 inches W
• Weight: 378 pounds
• Best for: Those on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice quality or tech
• $1,999

Pros:

• Includes 10-inch tablet for guided workouts
• Resistance auto-adjusts to follow trainers
• Virtually silent workouts

Cons:

• iFit membership required to access trainer-led programs
• Heavy lifters may not like magnetic resistance
• Only a one-year parts and labor warranty

For just under $2,000, you can purchase one of the best functional trainer cable machines that not only provides a full-body workout, but also has interactive, high-tech features. NordicTrack Fusion CST ranks as our best budget functional trainer because of its lower price point, but also because of the amount of features you get for that price. While it’s not the least expensive functional trainer on our list, it offers the most bang for your buck if you’re looking for a robust resistance training experience. This functional trainer operates off of magnetic resistance, which is powered by a flywheel that’s activated by you using the cable pulley system. It includes 20 power resistance settings (as opposed to changing weight by increments) that auto-adjust as you exercise. Since weights can be clunky and loud, the use of magnetic resistance makes this machine virtually silent, making it a great option for those sharing homes with others or living in apartments where noise travels.

The NordicTrack Fusion CST comes with a 10-inch HD touchscreen tablet where you can follow along to personal trainer-led workouts through iFit, a membership-only platform with hundreds of on-demand fitness classes. Purchasing this functional trainer nets you a free 30-day iFit trial, which otherwise costs $39/month after the trial period is over. While you can still use the machine without a subscription and do everything from leg extensions to flys, having a membership elevates the workout experience. Your purchase also includes an adjustable independent tablet and smartphone stand where you can use the touchscreen tablet included or store your own devices to stream music or movies on.

Best Versatile Functional Trainer: Force USA G6 All-in-One Functional Trainer

Key Features:

• Includes power rack for barbell exercises
• Comes with 17 total attachments
• Dimensions: 63 inches L x 91 inches H x 72 inches W
• Weight: 1,091 pounds
• Best for: Heavy and olympic lifting
• $3,999.99

Pros:

• Comes with Smith Machine and fixed barbell for Olympic weightlifting
• Power rack with straight bar for squats, deadlifts and more
• Includes vertical leg press attachment and chin-up station

Cons:

• May be too complex for beginners
• Sometimes out of stock
• Extremely heavy machine

Force USA G6 All-in-One Functional Trainer offers a serious workout for bodybuilders and those passionate about heavy or olympic lifting. It takes nine major strength training machines in a commercial use gym and packs it into one, highly versatile machine where you can easily switch between deadlifts and leg presses, among other workouts. An integrated power rack allows you to perform squats, bench presses, overhead presses and more, and its straight bar can be adjusted to any height. The functional trainer portion itself is also capable of accommodating more than 75 different exercises, and comes with eight functional trainer attachments. Then, there’s a Smith Machine station where you can lift with a fixed barbell and olympic weight plates.

Still, we haven’t even scratched the surface of how versatile this machine truly is. In addition to the features above, it comes with a leg press attachment to convert the Smith Machine into a vertical leg press, a multi-grip chin-up and pull-up station, a core trainer for swivel torso training, a suspension trainer ring that’s compatible with TRX and a dip station for upper body workouts. Yet given all the features, this machine may feel too intimidating and robust for beginners, and is better suited towards seasoned lifters who feel comfortable using these stations. Plus, this item is sometimes out of stock due to ongoing supply chain limitations.

Best Functional Trainer for Garage Gyms: Titan Fitness Functional Trainer

Key Features:

• Black and silver design compliments garage gyms
• Robust cable attachment package included
• Dimensions: 44 inches L x 82 inches H x 64 inches W
• Weight: 672 pounds
• Best for: Garage gyms and those who want a wide range of exercise positions
• $2,499.99

Pros:

• More than 1,000 exercise positions possible
• Includes 10 cable attachments
• Longer pulley system for better form

Cons:

• May be too short for taller people
• Only a one-year warranty
• Some users complain of missing parts during shipping process

With its sleek black and silver design, the Titan Fitness Functional Trainer is our top pick for best home functional trainer for garage gyms. Not only does it look great in a garage gym, but it can easily fit in a corner or against a garage wall, so you have plenty of room to store vehicles and other items.

This double-stack functional trainer comes with 10 cable attachments that include a tricep rope, ankle straps, long bar and more. It also has six hooks on the machine where you can organize your accessories. One of our favorite features in this functional trainer is its longer pulley system, which gives you more cable length to perform exercises with better form. It also has rubber feet to help protect your garage (or home) gym flooring from scratches or abrasion.

Made with high-grade steel, the Titan Fitness Functional Trainer can withstand temperature variations, so you don’t have to worry about storing it in a garage gym if you live in an area that tends to get very hot or very cold. However, this machine does require home assembly, which some users report problems with. While the assembly process itself is rather straightforward, a few customers have complained about missing parts when the package is delivered to their home. They also report issues with getting the missing parts from Titan Fitness customer service. These complaints are an exception, so overall, we have no problem recommending the Titan Fitness trainer for your garage gym.

What Is a Functional Trainer?

A functional trainer is a versatile piece of fitness equipment that allows you to do many types of resistance training, including strength training, HIIT (high intensity interval training) and circuit training. It usually incorporates a cable pulley system and comes with cable attachments that you can swap in and out to do different exercises like bicep curls, cable crossovers and pull downs. One of the best features of a functional trainer is that the adjustable pulley system can be moved around to do both exercises where you pull up and exercises where you push down, so you can hit various muscle groups. Another advantage is the numerous types of cable attachments that are typically provided, which can include a mix of curl bars, ropes, ankle cuffs, handles, long bars and short bars. Instead of going from weight machine to weight machine in a commercial gym, you can do all of your resistance training exercises at home on one single fitness machine.

Plus, a functional trainer usually has dual weight stacks that are easy to adjust; there’s no need to drag heavy weight plates to and from your machine (unless you buy a machine that uses free weights). Instead, most machines require you to simply move a pin to your desired weight. This allows you to quickly switch from light to heavy resistance training. A functional trainer also eliminates some problems that free weights can cause, such as getting stuck under a bar or needing a spotter. If you’re new to resistance or strength training, a functional trainer is a stress-free way to build up your strength and confidence while learning how to do different exercises. In addition, you can use your functional trainer as a full-body workout machine to get in one single strength training blast or to target just one muscle group during each workout session.

While functional trainers can run on the expensive side, they cost significantly less than buying multiple weight machines or strength training equipment, saving you money in the long run. After all, space and cost are two major factors that home gym enthusiasts run into. Unlike a commercial gym, a home gym often comes with limitations as to what it can include. Luckily, many functional trainers are compact enough to easily store in a home gym or garage gym.

How to Choose the Best Functional Trainer for You

Size

Let’s face it, functional trainers can be bulky. While these machines are still significantly smaller and use less space than packing your home gym with multiple strength training machines, they can take up a hefty footprint. Keep in mind that most functional trainers will require several feet of space and are generally very tall. You’ll also want at least five feet around each side of your machine to give you ample room to exercise. Before buying a machine, carefully measure your space both vertically and horizontally to make sure you have enough floor, wall and ceiling space to adequately fit a functional trainer.

Attachments

Most functional trainers are designed with a cable pulley system where you can swap out different attachments, like tricep ropes or v-bars, to complete different exercises. If you currently belong to a commercial gym, consider which exercises you typically do and what attachments you’ll need to replicate them at home. Or, if you already have an established home gym, consider what exercises you’re missing that a specific attachment can help provide. As you shop around for different functional trainers, look for a machine that includes most or all of the attachments you need to help make your investment for your home gym worthwhile.

Weight stacks

Functional trainers typically have two weight stacks, with one on each side of the machine (unless you have a magnetic resistance-based machine like NordicTrack Fusion CST, which gets its power from inertia and a flywheel). Depending on how much weight you can currently lift or eventually want to lift, it’s important to seek out a functional trainer with weight capabilities that meet your needs. Heavier lifters may want to gravitate towards more robust machines, while lighter lifters might want to consider a beginner-friendly machine. Some machines also offer weight add-ons for an additional fee to increase how much weight you can exercise with.

Cables

A cable pulley system is an integral part of the design of many functional trainers. Most have two cables with adjustable heights for both upper-body and lower-body workouts. Look for a functional trainer that will let you adjust cables every two to three inches, which will maximize your workouts and the types of exercises you can do. For example, functional trainers with cables that are further apart may allow for fewer exercises.

Resistance and pulley ratio

Typically, a functional trainer operates on a 1:2 resistance ratio. This means that if you have a total of 100 pounds set up on your weight stack, you’ll actually push or pull a total of 50 pounds. Keep this ratio in mind as you consider different functional trainers, since, for example, a 440-pound total weight limit is really only 220 pounds once the resistance ratio is factored in.

Other systems use magnetic resistance, which is powered by inertia, or bodyweight resistance, which is powered by your own body weight. In the case of body weight resistance, you push or pull against yourself. Consider which type of resistance is right for you, since there are various systems to try.

Durability

If you’re spending thousands of dollars on a large piece of fitness equipment, it’s essential to purchase a product that’s going to last you for many years. Durability should be top of mind when buying a functional trainer, especially if you plan on using it often and/or have a larger household. You definitely don’t want to shell out $4,000 for a machine that will break down in a year. Instead, look for functional trainers reinforced with steel and made with high-quality parts. Be sure to read reviews from verified sources or customers, since these can help you get a sense of a machine’s durability over time.

Assembly

Some people love assembling equipment, while others avoid it at all costs. Luckily, many companies offer home installation services for functional trainers in addition to delivery. These services are sometimes included in the overall price of the functional trainer, or come as an add-on service that you can purchase for an additional fee. Still, if embarking on your own assembly journey sounds like something you want to do, consider how much time you’re willing to devote to the project and how complicated it is. For machines with more complex assembly, consider having two people work on the project. Functional trainers are often heavy-duty pieces of equipment with heavy and/or bulky parts.

Warranty

Just like cars or other major investments, functional trainers are machines that are prone to potentially breaking down. Perhaps a part becomes loose or a cable pulley stops working. That’s why having a good warranty program in place is essential as you shop around for a functional trainer, especially given the high price point. Some functional trainers come with robust, long-term warranty programs, while others come with more limited options. With proper care and use, a piece of fitness equipment should last you anywhere from seven to 12 years or more, so consider looking for a functional trainer that includes a multi-year or lifetime warranty option.

Price

Almost all functional trainers will cost several thousand dollars. That’s because these high-end fitness machines are extremely versatile and allow for numerous resistance training exercises. Buying one functional trainer is like buying multiple strength training machines. They also might come with various cable attachments, which add to the price. As a costly investment for a home gym, it’s essential to consider your budget before deciding on a functional trainer.

If you’re finding that you’re already spending thousands of dollars to assemble multiple pieces of resistance training equipment in your home gym, or that you’re running out of room due to space constraints, a functional trainer can be a wise investment that could ultimately save you money. Still, be sure that you’ll use your functional trainer regularly to make the price worth it.

Functional Trainer FAQs

What muscles do functional trainers work?

A functional trainer is one of the best fitness machines to work most major muscle groups. This includes legs, glutes, back, chest, core, biceps, triceps and shoulders, among others. While traditional strength training typically targets one muscle group at a time, such as your quads, most functional trainers allow you to customize between targeting individual muscle groups or completing a full-body workout.

How do you do leg presses on a functional trainer?

Some functional trainers come with a leg press attachment where, for example, you can temporarily convert a Smith Machine into a leg press machine. When you’re finished, you can remove the leg press attachment via its handles. Other machines, like Bowflex Revolution Home Gym, have a leg press directly built in. Most times, however, a traditional leg press isn’t possible on a functional trainer. Instead, you can do other leg workouts that target your quads, which is one of the major muscle groups worked by leg presses.

Is functional training good for weight loss?

Yes, functional training can be an excellent workout for weight loss. Studies have found that functional training reduces body fat, while also improving fitness and cholesterol levels. It can also reduce waist circumference by up to 3.4 percent, according to a 2020 study where participants with obesity completed functional training three times per week. Further research shows that functional training can burn enough calories to induce meaningful weight loss if done regularly. A preworkout supplement may also help elevate your workout and boost your energy.

Is a functional trainer right for me?

If you want a home gym with the range of exercises available at a full commercial gym, then investing in a functional trainer can be a great way to save on space and cost. These machines are also an excellent choice for smaller homes, thanks to their versatility. Functional trainers are beneficial machines for those who are interested in increasing strength, building muscle mass, improving balance, losing weight and/or circuit or HIIT training.

Final Thoughts

Purchasing a functional trainer can be a worthwhile fitness equipment investment that can prove beneficial to many home gym enthusiasts. Not only can a functional trainer provide a total-body workout, but rotating through exercises is much easier than carrying heavy weight plates to and from multiple free weight machines. Overall, if your budget allows for a higher-end purchase and you’d like to add an extremely versatile and adjustable piece of fitness equipment to your home gym, then investing in a functional trainer may be a wise choice.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.