New home gym systems put muscles in motion
The buzzwords in home gyms these days are “functional training.” These new systems have omni-directional push bars or cable pulleys, forcing you to stabilize and balance, not just lift or pull. The four systems reviewed here deliver tough, practical strength training. The wide range of motion they demand strengthens and stretches both primary and secondary muscles in the way you move them in real life.
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Epitome of the breed
Life Fitness G5: High-end, all-cable weight tower.
Likes: Sleek lines and thick oval tubing look classy and feel solid. Three pulley positions allow for a wide variety of exercises. The adjustable bench lies flat for traditional bench press position, and easily pulls out of the way to free up space for lat pulls, rows, leg extensions or other floor exercises.
Dislikes: 160-lb. weight stack a bit light for big boys; upgrade to 210 pounds for $200.
Price: $2,999. (888) 348-4543; www.lifefitness.com.
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Old and new together
Body-Solid G8I Iso-Flex: High-end blend of conventional and functional movements.
Likes: The multidirectional arms offer more challenge than traditional machines, but are easier to control than pulley handles. A swiveling platform adds difficulty to the lat-pull bar. A conventional leg developer includes an extension and rare laying-down curl. Heavy 210-lb. weight stack. Additional 50 lbs. runs $50.
Dislikes: No dips and pull-ups.
Price: $2,999. (800) 833-1227; www.bodysolid.com.
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Compact and diverse
Parabody CM3: Functional tower with leg extension station.
Likes: Wide variety of exercises possible from the three cable positions, including lat pulls, presses, low rows, squats, bicep curls and more. Small footprint. Includes revolving-handle low row bar, ankle strap, and two pairs of soft strap handles. Lightweight 160-lb. stack expandable to 210 lbs. ($200).
Dislikes: Cumbersome standing leg curl. Weight-stack shroud and lat bar (pictured) cost extra.
Price: $1,899. (866) 727-2263; www.parabody.com.
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Swiss Army knife of gyms
Vision ST200 Functional Trainer: A-shape design with movable pulleys.
Likes: Variety of exercises from a small footprint. Pulleys and back pad can be positioned from floor to overhead. Seat pivots out of the way for standing exercises or use of a stability ball. A variety of hand grips changes the emphasis from independent/functional movements to dependent movements. 160-lb. weight stack can be upgraded to 210 lbs. ($100).
Dislikes: Continually reconfiguring the parts may be too much work for some.
Price: $1,699. (800) 335-4348; www.visionfitness.com.
-- Roy M. Wallack