Enhance Your Physical Potential with Top-tier Functional Training Equipment
Functional training equipment is designed to mimic everyday movements, helping you build strength, mobility, and stability. In this article, we'll explore some of the best functional training equipment across various categories, based on expert reviews and product features.
Cardio
For cardio workouts, the Peloton Row rowing machine is highly recommended. It features smart sensors and Form Assist for real-time technique feedback, making it suitable for users of all heights and weight capacities up to 300 lbs.
Kettlebells
While no single top kettlebell brand emerged, premium kettlebells from brands like Rogue Fitness, REP Fitness, and Bells of Steel are popular for their quality and ergonomic design.
Maces
Specialized functional fitness shops often recommend steel or composite maces with adjustable weights for durability and versatility. Rogue Fitness offers widely praised maces for home use.
Medicine Balls
High-quality brands like Rogue Fitness and Hammer Strength offer durable medicine balls for rotational and explosive movements.
Bulgarian-style Bags
Bulgarian bags from brands like Power Systems and Onnit are standard recommendations due to their authentic design, durable materials, and balanced weight distribution.
Balance Trainers
For balance and stability, the BOSU Balance Trainer remains a go-to, widely regarded for its versatility in balance, strength, and flexibility training.
Pull-up Bars
The multi-grip pull-up bars integrated into versatile functional trainers such as the Force USA G15 and Bells of Steel Functional Trainer receive high marks for quality and variety of grips, enhancing pull-up training.
Jump Ropes
Premium jump ropes with adjustable bearings and comfortable grips from brands like Rogue or RPM are recommended for speed and durability.
Weighted Vests
Adjustable weighted vests, such as those from Hyperwear or CROSS180, are recommended for functional conditioning, offering flexibility in loading and secure fit.
Resistance Bands
High-quality, durable resistance bands from brands like Rogue Fitness and Perform Better are top picks for variable resistance training, useful for rehab and strength work.
Functional Trainers and All-in-One Machines
The Force USA G15 All-In-One Trainer stands out as the most versatile, combining a functional trainer, power rack, Smith machine, cable system, and pull-up station in one unit. The REP Fitness FT-5000 offers a cost-effective, high-quality function trainer option, while the Bells of Steel Functional Trainer is praised for its smooth pulleys and multiple attachments.
Special Mention
- The REP Fitness Pull-Up Bands come in seven different sizes and are made with layered elastic for maximum durability.
- Bulgarian bags are shaped like a lamb and are used for creating high-intensity workouts that build full-body muscular endurance and rotational strength.
- The Concept 2 SkiERG mimics the motion of pushing off the ground with ski poles and provides a full-body workout.
- The REP Fitness Wall Mounted Pull-up Bar is a standalone pull-up bar that is more stable than doorframe options and requires a little more effort to install.
- The Rogue Echo Bike V3.0 is a challenging exercise bike that builds VO2 max through one-minute on, one-minute off intervals.
- TRX's Hexgrip Medicine Ball features hundreds of tiny Hex nodes that provide a grippy surface well into the depths of a workout.
- The Concept 2 RowERG is a popular indoor rowing machine that provides real-time performance data and adjustable resistance.
- Functional workouts can be done with just body weight and a decently heavy kettlebell.
- Tacfit's steel mace is constructed from high-quality powder-coated steel and comes in a variety of weight options.
- Goruck's sand kettlebell is portable and loadable, making it ideal for functional training on the go.
- Suples Original Genuine Leather Bulgarian Bag is a high-quality example of a Bulgarian bag, made of leather and filled with wool and sand to create a balanced weight distribution.
In conclusion, these selections balance quality, versatility, price, and space considerations for well-rounded functional training setups. By incorporating these pieces of equipment into your routine, you'll be well on your way to a more functional and fit lifestyle.
Fashionable activewear, such as moisture-wicking t-shirts and performance leggings, can complement your functional training sessions, enhancing your style during fitness-and-exercise. To maintain a healthy-and-wellness lifestyle while training, consider adding a post-workout science-backed supplement like creatine or BCAAs to your routine. Alongside your functional training equipment, incorporating a foam roller or massage ball into your daily routine can help improve recovery and prevent injury.