Cable-based resistance training is growing more and more popular amongst gym members, and for good reason.

Cable machines offer uniquely effective exercise. They are perfectly safe to use, they offer a versatile workout that can target any muscle, and the constant tension keeps those muscles engaged throughout a movement.

But what type of cable-based training should you offer at your gym? If you’re limited on budget or space, the decision may come down to the choice of functional trainer vs cable crossover machine.

At GymQuip we’ve been helping gyms, hotels and apartment complexes fill their training floors with commercial gym equipment for over 30 years.

In this guide we’ll share that expertise to offer up a functional training gym equipment vs cable crossover machine comparison, to help you make the best possible equipment investment for your situation.

 

What is a functional trainer? 

Functional trainers are compact yet versatile strength training machines that feature adjustable cables and pulleys connected to independent weight stacks. As the name suggests, these machines are designed to replicate natural, day-to-day, ‘functional’ movements, helping users to develop usable strength, balance, coordination and mobility.

 

Key features

  • Adjustable cables and handles that allow for a wide variety of movements.
  • Adjustable resistance through selectorised weights.
  • Can come with built-in accessories like pull-up bars and rope attachments.

 

Common uses 

  • Personal training
  • HIIT circuits
  • Functional fitness training
  • Rehabilitation exercises
  • Sports-specific movements

 

What is a cable crossover machine? 

Cable crossover machines are larger pieces of equipment that feature a dual-stack cable system connected to fully adjustable pulleys. These machines are primarily used for upper-body movements, and are particularly effective at isolating specific muscles.

 

Key features

  • Wider cable arms for full extension exercises.
  • Enables unrestricted bilateral movement to promote muscle symmetry.
  • Typically larger than a functional trainer, requiring more floor space.
  • Often feature pull-up bars.

 

Common uses

  • Traditional strength training
  • Bodybuilding workouts
  • Muscle isolation
  • Bilateral exercises

 

Functional trainers vs cable crossover machines: key differences 

As strength-focused, cable-based training machines, there is naturally plenty of overlap between functional trainers and cable crossover machines. But there are also a few notable differences, summarised in the table below.

Feature

Functional Trainer

Cable Crossover Machine

Size & Space Requirements

Compact, ideal for small gyms

Larger, requires more floor space

Adjustability

Fully adjustable pulleys for dynamic movements

Adjustable pulleys, more suited to upper body workouts

Versatility

Offers a wide range of cable-based workouts as well as half rack free weight capabilities in front of the unit

Can be used full body, e.g. glute kickbacks or abductor/adductor work

Training Styles

Functional fitness, strength circuits, PT sessions, rehab

Bodybuilding, bodysculpting, strength training

Target Audience

General gym-goers, personal trainers

Strength-focused users, experienced lifters, in conjunction with general gym goers

Investment & ROI

High versatility makes it a cost-effective choice

Often cheaper than functional trainers – a wise investment for strength training facilities

Which machine is best for your gym? 

The best commercial gym strength equipment for your gym will depend on a number of factors, including the type of gym member you attract, your budget, the space you have available, and the other equipment you offer.

Functional trainer vs cable machine: which is best? Taking into account the respective strengths of each machine, let’s look at a few use cases.

A functional trainer is best for…

  • General purpose commercial gyms who target a wide variety of gym members
  • Gyms used by personal trainers who work with a wide range of clients
  • Any gym with space limitations such as boutique fitness businesses and gyms in hotels and residential complexes
  • Functional group training centres (CrossFit, F45, HIIT)
  • Gyms used for therapy (rehabilitating from injury, improving mobility) 

 

A cable crossover machine is best for…

  • Large gyms with the necessary space
  • High performance strength training gyms used by experienced lifters
  • Bodybuilding and bodysculpting gyms

Ultimately a cable crossover machine is a more specialised piece of gym equipment, while a functional trainer is more general purpose. If you have to choose one of these machines, a functional trainer will make more sense in most situations.

But do you have to choose one? If you have the space, both types of cable machine can be valuable additions to your gym. A functional trainer can form the entry point to cable training, with your members eventually graduating to the cable crossover machine as they more precisely target the muscles they want to develop.

 

GymQuip: strength training specialists

At GymQuip we’ve spent 30 years supplying the finest strength training equipment to happy customers. Home to one of Australia’s largest fitness showrooms, we offer a complete range of functional trainers and cable machines from the world’s most trusted fitness equipment brands.

If you’re looking to fit out your commercial gym, we can help you every step of the way: floorplan and design, equipment choice, delivery, installation and maintenance.

We deliver equipment Australia-wide, backed by a generous shipping and returns policy and our famous price beat guarantee: if you find one of our products cheaper elsewhere, we’ll beat that price.

Ready to elevate the experience you offer your gym members? Get in touch with our friendly team today.