Fitness & Equipment Guides > What Is A Functional Trainer?

What Is A Functional Trainer?

15th Sep 22

When it comes to home gym equipment, there’s so much to choose from that it can be a bit mind-boggling. You’ve got multi-gyms and smith machines, and now we’re throwing functional trainers into the mix? But a functional trainer could be just what you’re looking for!


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Functional Trainers

two people working out on a functional trainer

So what is a functional trainer? They are pieces of home gym equipment designed to offer you countless workout styles so that you never get bored. This set-up means that any aspect of the machine can target multiple muscle groups in one go instead of working each at a time. And the numerous attachments they come with make it easier for you to try different exercises to keep your workouts exciting and varied to your fitness style.

Unlike other home gym machines, they often come with two weight stacks, or a dual-stack, to allow more freedom to train as naturally as possible. Another bonus to having a dual-weight stack is that two people can workout on the machine simultaneously, meaning you can not only have a workout buddy but also save money on gym memberships. Where other machines have cables attached to one weight stack, having two means you can split the machine between two users without getting in the way of each other.

With tonnes of different options available on the market, you’ll be sure to find one tailored to your workout style. Functional trainer features can include things like pull-up bars, barbells, wrist and ankle cuffs; the list goes on. Of course, the more of these features you want can push the price up, but once you’ve bought one, it’s unlikely you’ll need other home gym equipment for a long time, making it worth your money.

The Benefits

various exercises you can do on a functional trainer

A functional trainer has limitless benefits. If you’re using one to build strength, the weight stacks allow you to adjust the weight to suit you but also allow you to progress over time, and the different features mean you can work most of the muscles in your body in your way. This makes the machine not only the perfect choice for beginners and experts but even for anyone recovering from an injury. In addition, being able to adjust the weight freely and target set muscle groups makes it easier to rebuild strength without causing further damage.

The numerous attachments and adjustable pulleys mean you can cut out the dumbbells, kettlebells and barbells and instead, just adjust the angle and swap out the attachment to replicate the movements on the machine. And by adjusting these, you can even improve your skills in sports such as golf or tennis by mimicking the movements of the sport with the cables and weights. This will help improve your accuracy, coordination and mobility and build muscle and strength exactly where needed in one exercise.

Basically, a functional trainer is a perfect machine for any home gym. So whether you want to save money, need something the whole family can use, improve your golf swing or want to shake up your fitness routine, a functional trainer could be just the thing for you.


Before beginning any exercise or nutrition program, consult your physician, doctor or other professional. This is especially important for individuals over the age of 35 or persons with pre-existing health problems. Exercise.co.uk assumes no responsibility for personal injury or property damage sustained using our advice.

If you experience dizziness, nausea, chest pain, or any other abnormal symptoms, stop the workout at once and consult a physician or doctor immediately.

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