VERVE Makoto Plate-Loaded Machines: Leg Press, Hack Squat and More

Last updated: April 2026 — Complete guide to every plate-loaded machine in VERVE's Makoto commercial range, plus the Hip Belt Squat V3 and standalone hack squat options.

Why Plate-Loaded?

Plate-loaded machines use Olympic weight plates instead of fixed weight stacks. The trade-off is straightforward: you sacrifice the convenience of moving a pin for unlimited resistance potential. If your leg press clients are maxing out 141kg pin-loaded stacks and asking "is that all you've got?", plate-loaded is your answer.

These machines are popular in athletic facilities, powerlifting-focused gyms, and training environments where the clientele is more experienced. They also tend to be more affordable per station than their pin-loaded equivalents — meaning you get heavy-duty commercial equipment at a lower entry point.

The Complete Makoto Plate-Loaded Range

Prices current as of April 2026. Check vervefitness.com.au for latest pricing.

Additional Plate-Loaded Strength Equipment

Beyond the Makoto-branded machines, VERVE offers several standalone plate-loaded options:

Deep Dive: The Most Popular Stations

Plate Loaded Leg Press — $3,999

The Makoto Leg Press is the heaviest machine in the plate-loaded range at 220kg net weight before you even add a single plate. Dimensions are 2230x1660x1470mm, so plan your floor space accordingly — this is not a compact unit. The sled design accepts Olympic plates, and the construction is built to handle serious loads. This is the machine that justifies going plate-loaded over pin-loaded: leg press users routinely need more than any fixed stack can offer.

Plate Loaded Hack Squat — $3,899

The Makoto Hack Squat runs approximately 2020x1660mm and shares the same Makoto build standard. It provides a fixed-path squatting motion that isolates the quadriceps more than a free-standing barbell squat. For facilities that want both a hack squat and a V squat, the standalone V Squat / Hack Squat combo unit at $2,699 does both in one machine.

Plate Loaded Pulldown — $3,399

At 1780x1561x1892mm and 178kg, this is a substantial pulling station. Plate-loaded pulldowns give you the ability to go heavier than fixed stacks — useful for large athletes or strongman-style training where 100kg+ pulldowns are routine.

Hip Belt Squat V3 — $1,499

The Hip Belt Squat V3 deserves special attention. At 2100x1330x1000mm and 120kg with a 450kg weight capacity, it's designed for heavy squatting without loading the spine. The generous 1250x610mm footplate accommodates different stance widths. This is increasingly popular in both rehabilitation settings (where spinal loading is contraindicated) and strength programmes (as a squat variation that eliminates the upper back as a limiting factor).

Plate-Loaded vs. Pin-Loaded: Decision Guide

Note on plate compatibility: Plate storage horns on Makoto machines are designed for tri-grip style plates 20kg and below. Plan your plate inventory accordingly.

Warranty Coverage

Plate-loaded Makoto machines share the same warranty structure as pin-loaded:

The standalone strength equipment (Hip Belt Squat V3, V Squat, Commercial Hack Squat) carries a 5-year frame and welding warranty for both home and commercial use.

Sample Plate-Loaded Gym Configurations

Strength-Focused 6-Station Setup (~$20,000)

• Plate Loaded Leg Press — $3,999
• Plate Loaded Hack Squat — $3,899
• Plate Loaded Chest Press — $2,999
• Plate Loaded Pulldown — $3,399
• Plate Loaded Seated Row — $2,299
• Plate Loaded Seated Calf Raise — $999

Adding Standalone Equipment (~$7,250 more)

• Hip Belt Squat V3 — $1,499
• V Squat / Hack Squat — $2,699
• Plate Loaded Shoulder Press — $2,699

Frequently Asked Questions

What plates fit on Makoto plate-loaded machines?

Makoto plate storage horns are designed for tri-grip style Olympic plates 20kg and below. Standard Olympic 50mm sleeve plates will fit. Plan your plate inventory to include plenty of 5kg, 10kg, 15kg, and 20kg plates for efficient loading.

What's the maximum weight capacity on the plate-loaded leg press?

The leg press is rated for serious loads — the machine itself weighs 220kg, and you can load Olympic plates to the extent the storage horns will hold them. For specific rated capacity, check the product page at vervefitness.com.au.

Is the Hip Belt Squat V3 worth it alongside a power rack?

Absolutely. The Hip Belt Squat V3 trains a completely different squat pattern — it loads the hips directly without compressing the spine. At $1,499 with a 450kg capacity, it's one of the best value-adds for any serious gym. Athletes use it for high-volume squat training without the fatigue of spinal loading, and it's invaluable for anyone with back issues who still wants to squat heavy.

Can I mix plate-loaded and pin-loaded Makoto machines?

Yes, and many gyms do exactly this. A common approach is to use pin-loaded for upper body isolation (where members want quick weight changes and guided paths) and plate-loaded for lower body (where heavier loads are needed). They share the same Makoto aesthetic, so your gym floor looks cohesive regardless of the mix.

What's the difference between the V Squat / Hack Squat combo and the standalone Makoto Hack Squat?

The V Squat / Hack Squat ($2,699) is a dual-function machine that converts between a V squat and a hack squat. The Makoto Plate Loaded Hack Squat ($3,899) is a dedicated single-function hack squat from the Makoto series. If floor space is tight and you want both movements, the combo unit is the smarter pick. If you want the Makoto build standard and only need hack squats, the dedicated unit is the way to go.

Are Brown upholstery versions available for plate-loaded machines?

Yes. Like all Makoto machines, plate-loaded models are available in Brown upholstery as a made-to-order option with an 8-16 week lead time. Black upholstery models are in-stock.

How much floor space do I need for the leg press?

The Plate Loaded Leg Press measures 2230x1660x1470mm. You'll want at least 3m x 2.5m to allow comfortable access for loading plates and entering/exiting the sled. It's the largest single machine in the plate-loaded range.