VERVE Makoto Plate-Loaded Machines: Leg Press, Hack Squat and More
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.
In This Guide
TL;DR: VERVE's Makoto plate-loaded range includes 8 machines from $1,499 to $4,299, plus standalone options like the Hip Belt Squat V3 ($1,249) and the V Squat / Hack Squat ($2,999). These machines offer unlimited resistance potential — load as many plates as you can handle. Same Makoto build quality as the pin-loaded range: aluminium alloy frames, commercial-grade construction, Black or Brown upholstery. 5-year warranty on welding and weight stacks.
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.
| Machine | Price | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Net Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plate Loaded Chest Press | $3,999 | - | - |
| Plate Loaded Shoulder Press | $2,999 | - | - |
| Plate Loaded Pulldown | $3,299 | 1780x1561x1892mm | 178kg |
| Plate Loaded Seated Row | $2,999 | 1552x1470x1228mm | 146kg |
| Plate Loaded Leg Press | $4,299 | 2230x1660x1470mm | 220kg |
| Plate Loaded Hack Squat | $3,999 | 2020x1660mm (approx.) | - |
| Plate Loaded Leg Extension | $2,499 | - | - |
| Plate Loaded Seated Calf Raise | $1,499 | 1433x759x1132mm | 70kg |
Additional Plate-Loaded Strength Equipment
Beyond the Makoto-branded machines, VERVE offers several standalone plate-loaded options:
| Machine | Price | Key Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Hip Belt Squat V3 | $1,249 | 2100x1330x1000mm, 120kg, 450kg capacity, 1250x610mm footplate |
| V Squat / Hack Squat | $2,999 | Dual-function: V squat + hack squat in one unit |
| Commercial Hack Squat | $2,999 | 45-degree commercial hack squat |
Deep Dive: The Most Popular Stations
Plate Loaded Leg Press — $4,299
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 — $3,999
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 $2,999 does both in one machine.
Plate Loaded Pulldown — $3,299
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 — $1,249
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
| Factor | Plate-Loaded | Pin-Loaded |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance | Unlimited (add more plates) | Fixed at 123kg or 141kg |
| Weight changes | Manual — load/unload plates | Instant — move a pin |
| Price | $1,499 - $4,299 | $3,999 - $4,999 |
| Floor tidiness | Plates can scatter | Self-contained |
| Best for | Athletic/strength-focused gyms | General commercial gyms |
| Maintenance | Fewer moving parts | Guide rods need lubrication |
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:
| Component | Home | Commercial |
|---|---|---|
| Rack welding, adjustable dish, weight stacks | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Bearing, pulley, guide rod | 1 Year | 1 Year |
| Belt, linear bearing, bush, pull pin | 1 Year | 1 Year |
| Wire rope, end caps, cushion/pad, foam, accessories | 6 Months | 6 Months |
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 — $4,299
- Plate Loaded Hack Squat — $3,999
- Plate Loaded Chest Press — $3,999
- Plate Loaded Pulldown — $3,299
- Plate Loaded Seated Row — $2,999
- Plate Loaded Seated Calf Raise — $1,499
Adding Standalone Equipment (~$7,250 more)
- Hip Belt Squat V3 — $1,249
- V Squat / Hack Squat — $2,999
- Plate Loaded Shoulder Press — $2,999
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore VERVE Plate-Loaded Machines
Commercial-grade plate-loaded machines from $1,249 to $4,299. Unlimited resistance. 5-year structural warranty. In-stock Black or made-to-order Brown.
View Plate-Loaded Range