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Functional Trainers

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Functional Trainers: What You Should Know

Functional trainers are some of the most versatile strength machines you can add to any gym setup.

Whether you're training for general fitness, sports performance, or rehabilitation, a functional trainer allows you to perform a huge variety of exercises with smooth, adjustable resistance.

At Select Fitness, we offer a wide selection of functional trainer machines designed for home gyms, personal training studios, and full commercial fitness centers.

This collection includes compact cable machines for home use, plate-loaded functional trainers for strength-focused athletes, and even advanced setups that combine a functional trainer with a smith machine. 

Whether you're looking for a straightforward functional trainer cable machine or a full commercial-grade system, we carry options built for smooth performance, durability, and training variety.

Functional trainers use dual independent cables that move freely in multiple planes, giving you the freedom to train natural movement patterns — push, pull, rotate, squat, lunge, and more — all with adjustable resistance that fits your ability and goals.

What to Look for in a Functional Trainer

Adjustable Pulley System
A good functional trainer machine will feature smooth-operating pulleys with a wide range of height adjustments. The more settings available, the more exercises you can perform with correct form.

Weight Stack or Plate-Loaded Options
Most functional trainers use selectorized weight stacks for fast, easy adjustments. Plate loaded functional trainers, on the other hand, allow you to load free weight plates for a more traditional strength training feel.

Space and Footprint
Functional trainers are compact compared to many other gym machines, but it's still important to account for width, depth, and ceiling height — especially when performing overhead exercises or cable crossovers. 

Smith Machine Integration
Some models combine a functional trainer with smith machine functionality like the Major Fitness B52 Pro, offering even more training variety. This is a great option if you want to add guided barbell squats, presses, and rows to your cable-based training.

Durability for Commercial or Heavy Home Use
If you need a commercial functional trainer, look for heavy-duty frames, commercial-rated pulleys, and strong cables. These machines are built for long-term, high-frequency use and offer smooth performance even under heavy loads.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Functional Trainers

How much does a functional trainer cost?

Functional trainer prices can vary widely depending on the quality, features, and intended use. Entry-level models like the Body Solid Powerline PFT100 offer excellent versatility and durability for home gyms at a more affordable price point. On the higher end, commercial models like the SportsArt DS972 are built for heavy-duty use in professional facilities and come with premium construction, advanced features, and a higher investment. Whether you're setting up a home gym or a full training studio, there's a functional trainer option to fit your goals and your budget.

What is a functional trainer used for?

A functional trainer is used for strength training, rehabilitation, and functional movement development. You can perform exercises like rows, presses, squats, woodchops, curls, and tricep extensions — making it one of the most versatile machines in any gym.

Is a functional trainer machine good for home gyms?

Yes, functional trainers are one of the best investments you can make for a home gym. They take up relatively little space and allow for full-body training with smooth, adjustable resistance.

What is the best functional trainer?

The best functional trainer depends on your needs. If you want simple and compact, a selectorized functional trainer is ideal. If you want maximum versatility, a functional trainer with a smith machine may be the better choice. For heavier lifters, a plate-loaded functional trainer might feel more natural. Our all around top choice and best seller is the Body Solid GFT100.

Are functional trainers worth it?

Absolutely. A functional trainer can replace multiple machines, allowing you to train every major muscle group efficiently. Their versatility, space efficiency, and durability make them a smart long-term investment.