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Michael K.

Inspire Functional Trainer Review

Quick Overview

The catalog of functional trainers provided by Inspire Fitness will fit the needs of any home gym owner. Whether you are looking for a functional trainer with a Smith machine or a more compact option, Inpsire will have you covered.

Overall Rating 9.1/10:

Value 8.6/10

Versatility 9.3/10

Build Quality 9.2/10

Cables & Pulleys 8.9/10

Included Attachments 9/10

Who Should Buy This

  • Those looking for an affordable functional trainer for their home gym
  • People who value high-quality pulleys and cables
  • Home gym owners with shorter ceilings

Before You Buy

  • Find the best Inspire model for you
  • Research other options from REP and Titan before you make a final decision

Aside from the usual suspects like REP Fitness or Titan, often overlooked functional trainer options are those made by REP Fitness. Since there is a severe lack of reviews, we decided to try out the Inspire functional trainers for ourselves to see if they were worth the money.

Now everyone knows how expensive the best functional trainers can be so it is crucial that you know what you are getting yourself into. In this full Inspire Functional Trainer review we will go over all the models, discuss the pros and cons, and detail our experience over the past few weeks.

Premium Pick
INSPIRE Fitness FT2 Functional Trainer and Smith Station
4.8

The Inspire Fitness FT2 is our pick for the best premium functional trainer. With a functional trainer and smith machine all in one, the FT2 is one of the most feature packed functional trainers on the market.

Check Price

A Quick Overview Of The Inspire Functional Trainer Models

The Inspire Functional Trainer series offers multiple models, each with unique features and capabilities. Here, we will provide an overview of some popular models to give you a better understanding of the available options:

Inspire FT1

inspire ft1 functional trainer

  • In the Inspire Functional Trainer line, the FT1 is the model that starts at the bottom.
  • Its small size makes it a good choice for home gyms with limited room.
  • The FT1 has two pulleys that can be adjusted, so users can do a range of functional and cable exercises.
  • Even though it doesn’t have a built-in Smith machine or bench connection, it’s still a good way to work out.

Inspire FT2

inspire ft2 functional trainer

  • The FT2 improves on the FT1.
  • Weightlifting is safer with its built-in Smith machine.
  • The bench attachment turns the FT2 into a leg extension/leg curl station for more exercise possibilities.
  • Fitness aficionados searching for a complete workout should consider the FT2, which has more routines and features.

Inspire SCS Smith Cage System

Inspire SCS Smith Cage System

  • The SCS Smith Cage System takes functional training to the next level with its integrated power rack and Smith machine.
  • It offers multiple cable pulleys, a pull-up bar, and a variety of accessories for extensive exercise selection.
  • The SCS system is designed for serious strength training and functional workouts, making it suitable for both home and commercial gyms.

Inspire FTX Functional Trainer

Inspire FTX Functional Trainer

  • The FTX model is an upgraded version of the FT1, featuring a space-efficient design with a smaller footprint.
  • It offers a Smith machine, dual-weight stacks, and multiple pulley positions for versatile training options.
  • The FTX is known for its smooth and quiet operation, making it an attractive choice for home gyms where noise is a concern.

Is The Inspire Functional Trainer FT2 Worth It?

For the purpsoes of our review, we decied to to go with the most popular model, the Inspire FT2 with the Smitch machine.

The Inspire Functional Trainer is a high-quality piece of fitness equipment designed to provide comprehensive functional training in the comfort of your own home. Whether it’s worth the investment depends on your specific fitness needs and preferences. Let’s take a closer look at the key aspects of the Inspire Functional Trainer to help you make an informed decision.

The Inspire Functional Trainer offers a wide range of exercises and is ideal for individuals looking to target multiple muscle groups and engage in functional training. With its multiple pulleys and connection points, this machine provides almost limitless workout variety and allows for a full range of motion during exercises.

One of the standout features of the Inspire Functional Trainer is its integrated Smith machine. The Smith bar, equipped with a spotter safety system, adds an extra layer of security for solo lifters and enables exercises such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. Additionally, the bench attachment with leg extension and leg curl expands the machine’s versatility, providing opportunities for focused leg workouts.

The build quality of the Inspire Functional Trainer is impressive, offering durability and reliability for long-term use. While it may not match the feel of commercial gym equipment, it is a solid option for home gym enthusiasts seeking a high-quality machine.

In terms of space-saving design, the Inspire Functional Trainer excels. Its compact footprint allows you to maximize your floor space, making it suitable for smaller workout areas where every inch counts.

Great For

  • Fitness Enthusiasts Seeking Versatility
  • Solo Lifters Benefiting from Safety Features
  • Adequate Home Gym Space

Not Recommended For

  • Barbell Enthusiasts
  • Budget-Conscious Buyers
  • Limited Home Gym Space

Inspire Functional Trainer Specs

SpecificationDetails
Dimensions61″ W x 58″ D x 88″ H (155 cm x 147 cm x 224 cm)
Weight580 lbs (263 kg)
Weight StackDual 165 lbs (75 kg) weight stacks
Frame ConstructionHeavy-duty steel frame
Pulley SystemCommercial-grade nylon pulleys
Cable Travel79.5″ (202 cm)
Adjustable Pulleys30 vertical positions and 180-degree cable positioning
Resistance1:2 weight ratio (e.g., 75 lbs = 150 lbs resistance)
ExercisesOver 70 exercises
Smith MachineIntegrated Smith machine with 3D Freedom Technology
Smith Machine Weight Capacity1,000 lbs (453 kg)
Functional Trainer Weight Capacity400 lbs (181 kg)
Pull-Up BarMulti-grip pull-up bar
Bench IncludedNo
Accessories IncludedTwo adjustable nylon handles, ankle strap, two 5 lbs add-on weights, chin-up assist strap
WarrantyResidential: Lifetime on frame, parts, and cables; Light Commercial: 10 years on frame, 1 year on parts, and 90 days on cables

Using The Inspire Functional Trainer

As someone who has had the opportunity to use the Inspire FT extensively, I can confidently say that it delivers a fantastic workout experience. The machine’s versatility and range of exercises have greatly impressed me, allowing for a comprehensive full-body workout without the need for multiple equipment pieces.

One of the standout features of the Inspire FT is its smooth and fluid motion. The pulley system operates seamlessly, providing consistent resistance throughout the entire range of motion. Whether I was performing cable crossovers, lat pulldowns, or tricep pushdowns, I felt the targeted muscles engage effectively, leading to satisfying workouts and noticeable improvements over time.

Another aspect worth mentioning is the user-friendly design of the Inspire FT. Adjusting the resistance is a breeze, thanks to the easy-to-use weight stack system. The weight plates glide smoothly, and the incremental adjustments allow for precise customization to meet specific strength and fitness goals. 

Additionally, the built-in exercise chart and instructional videos provide helpful guidance for beginners and serve as a handy reference for experienced users.

Build Quality

While the Inspire FT offers a sturdy frame, some users have expressed reservations about the overall quality of certain components. Feedback regarding the knurling on the bar and stability during exercises raises concerns.

Portability

The Inspire FT was not made to be carried around or moved around regularly. It’s common for users to include it in a home gym.

Pricing

The Inspire FT costs more than other functional trainers because it has more features and does more. This shows how many things it can do and how many ways you can work out on it.

Customer Experience

There has been a lot of controversy about the Inspire Functional Trainer. Users have had mixed reactions to the gadget, with some praising its adaptability and security features and others criticizing its shaky construction. Do your homework before buying, but initial impressions suggest the Inspire FT is a solid choice for multipurpose fitness enthusiasts.

Returns

There is a 30-day money-back promise on the Inspire Functional Trainer. If you buy a machine and are not happy with it within 30 days, you can return it and get your money back.

Warranty

The parts and work for the Inspire Functional Trainer are covered by a one-year warranty. This means that if any of the machine’s parts break in the first year after you buy it, they will be fixed or changed for free.

Financing

Affirm can help you pay for the Inspire Functional Trainer. This means you can pay for the machine over a time of six, twelve, or eighteen months.

Customer Inspire Functional Trainer Reviews

Here are what some real customers had to say:

Final Verdict

Overall, the Inpsire Fuctional Trainer lineup is a solid options that often gets overlooked in the jome gym community. However, in our experience the FT2 was a great functional trainer with premium features that ribaled some of the best functional trainers on the market.

Depending on your needs, any one of the Inpsire Functional Trainer will likely suffice for your home gym needs.

FAQs

Is the Inspire Functional Trainer suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Inspire FT is suitable for beginners, as well as seasoned fitness enthusiasts. Its versatile design and adjustable resistance make it accessible to users of all fitness levels, allowing them to progress at their own pace.

Can the Inspire FT accommodate Olympic-sized weight plates?

Yes, the Inspire FT features weight stacks with Olympic-sized weight plates, making it compatible with standard weight plates and allowing for smooth and easy adjustments during workouts.

Does the Inspire FT include assembly instructions and tools?

Yes, the Inspire FT comes with detailed assembly instructions and the necessary tools to facilitate the setup process. However, it’s advisable to have an extra pair of hands during assembly due to the machine’s size and complexity.

Can I perform upper body exercises like bench press on the Inspire FT?

Yes, the Inspire FT offers a variety of upper body exercises, including chest press and fly movements. With its adjustable pulleys and bench attachment, you can target different muscle groups effectively.

Is the Inspire FT suitable for a home gym with limited space?

The Inspire FT has a compact design compared to having separate machines for each exercise it offers. However, it still requires a dedicated space, and users should measure their available area to ensure it fits comfortably in their home gym setup.