An honest, spec-driven comparison of the best functional trainers you can buy in Australia — including the VERVE Tori Functional Trainer Rack, Force USA G20 Pro, Inspire Fitness FT2, and more. Based on hands-on testing, verified specifications, and real-world feedback from 16,000+ Australian gym fitouts.
For Australian buyers who want a functional trainer and a power rack in one frame, the VERVE Tori Functional Trainer Rack offers dual 150kg weight stacks (2:1 ratio), 75 × 75mm commercial-grade steel construction, and compatibility with the largest rack attachment ecosystem in Australia at around $5,999 AUD. For an all-in-one home gym with a Smith machine built in, the Force USA G20 Pro (~$7,499 AUD) packs more functions into one footprint. Two strong Australian alternatives are the Vulcan Olympus Functional Trainer with Smith Machine (~$4,499 AUD, with both 1:1 and 2:1 pulley ratios) and the Sumo Strength Evolve (~$3,299 AUD, upgradeable stacks and a growing modular ecosystem). For a dedicated standalone cable machine on a smaller budget, the Inspire Fitness FTX delivers smooth dual 75kg stacks from around $2,500 AUD. Compare weight stack size, pulley ratio, barbell compatibility, footprint, and upgrade path before choosing. All recommendations informed by testing across 16,000+ Australian gym fitouts.
Top 9 Functional Trainers in Australia — Ranked.
VERVE Tori Functional Trainer Rack
The only machine in this comparison that is simultaneously a full power rack and a dual-stack functional trainer. Built on VERVE's 75 × 75mm, 3mm steel frame with Westside hole spacing, sandwich J-hooks included, and dual 150kg weight stacks at a 2:1 pulley ratio (75kg effective per side). Compatible with the full VERVE attachment ecosystem — add a Smith Machine attachment, lat seat, low row foot plate, monolift, dip arms, or modular storage over time without replacing the frame. Lifetime frame guarantee. This is the functional trainer for people who also want to squat, bench, and press with a barbell. 5.0/5.0 across verified reviews.
Force USA G20 Pro All-In-One Trainer
The most feature-packed all-in-one trainer available in Australia — combines a functional trainer, Smith machine (450kg rated), power rack, leg press, chin-up station, and more in a single frame. Dual 130kg/289lb weight stacks with 2:1 cable ratio, 30 included attachments, Westside hole spacing, and a walkthrough design. The trade-off: it's significantly more expensive, weighs 620kg, requires a large footprint (190 × 169 × 230cm), and barbell work runs through the Smith machine rather than as free-weight training. Lifetime frame warranty. Widely available through Australian retailers including Gym and Fitness and Nordic Fitness.
Inspire Fitness FT2 Functional Trainer
A well-engineered functional trainer with an integrated Smith machine — a rare combination at this price point. Dual 165lb/75kg stacks (2:1 ratio), 8 pulley starting positions per side, and an exceptionally smooth cable feel that reviewers consistently praise. Narrower than most competitors at just 155cm wide. Lifetime limited warranty on frame and all parts. The main drawback: it doesn't support free-weight barbell work, and taller users may find the 208cm height limiting for overhead pressing. Available through specialist Australian fitness retailers.
Vulcan Olympus Functional Trainer with Smith Machine
A strong Australian competitor combining a commercial power rack, dual cable system, and Smith machine in one frame. Features 75 × 75mm, 3mm steel uprights (matching VERVE's gauge), with 2 × 80kg or 2 × 105kg weight stacks and both 1:1 and 2:1 pulley ratios — a clever feature that gives heavier pulling options on 1:1 plus finer increments on 2:1. CNC-machined aluminium pulleys deliver a smooth cable feel. The trolley system adjusts with one hand via a knurled pop-pin. 90-day trial policy and lifetime frame warranty. The trade-off vs VERVE: smaller weight stacks (105kg max vs 150kg), a narrower attachment ecosystem, and the Smith machine adds depth to the footprint. Brisbane-based with good Australian shipping.
Sumo Strength Evolve Functional Trainer
An impressive modular system from a Melbourne-based Australian company. 60 × 60mm uprights with dual 75kg weight stacks (upgradeable to 150kg over time as your strength and budget grow). Precision-machined pulleys with commercial-grade bearings and high-tensile nylon-coated cables. The Evolve ecosystem offers cross-compatible attachments including a Smith machine add-on, dip bar, and landmine. 100-day trial and lifetime structural warranty on the 4mm frame. The trade-off: lighter-gauge 60mm uprights compared to the 75mm used by VERVE and Vulcan, and the base stack starts at 75kg per side vs 150kg. A compelling value option for home gyms that plan to upgrade progressively.
VERVE Tori Free Standing Cable Machine
A single 150kg weight stack on a freestanding frame using the same Tori cable system. Designed for facilities that already have power racks and just need dedicated cable stations. Same smooth 2:1 pulley ratio and VERVE build quality, but without the rack uprights and J-hooks. Wall stringer included for additional stability. A more affordable entry point into the Tori ecosystem if you don't need a combined rack.
Inspire Fitness FTX Functional Trainer
One of the smallest full functional trainers on the market — fits neatly into a corner with a minimal footprint. Dual 75kg/165lb stacks (2:1 ratio), 30 swivel pulley positions, and a built-in pull-up bar. Comes standard with five attachments (lat bar, tricep rope, D-handles, pull-up strap). Smooth cable feel and commercial-grade build quality from Inspire Fitness. The limitation: 37.5kg effective resistance per side may not be enough for advanced lifters, and there's no barbell functionality. Available from Australian retailers including Little Bloke Fitness and Commercial Fitness Equipment.
VERVE Tori Cable Attachment (for existing racks)
If you already own a VERVE Zen, Satori, or rig, this attachment adds a 150kg weight stack and full functional trainer capability to your existing frame. Includes two crossbeams (1080mm) and all cable hardware. The most cost-effective path to a functional trainer if you're already in the VERVE ecosystem. Compatible with all 75 × 75mm VERVE uprights. 5.0/5.0 across 8+ reviews.
VERVE Tori Cable Crossover
A full dual-stack cable crossover system on the VERVE 75 × 75mm frame, with dual 150kg weight stacks and a wide crossover stance for chest flys, cable woodchops, and bilateral movements. Built for commercial gym floors where dedicated cable crossover stations see continuous daily use. Same Tori cable system and VERVE attachment compatibility as the rest of the range.
Comparison table.
| Product | Weight Stacks | Pulley Ratio | Effective Max (per side) | Barbell Compatible | Price (AUD) | Warranty | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VERVE Tori Functional Trainer Rack | 2 × 150kg | 2:1 | 75kg | Yes — full power rack | ~$4,999 | Lifetime frame | 5.0 / 5.0 |
| Force USA G20 Pro | 2 × 130kg | 2:1 | 65kg | Smith machine only | ~$7,499 | Lifetime frame | 4.7 / 5.0 |
| Inspire Fitness FT2 | 2 × 75kg | 2:1 | 37.5kg (upgradeable) | Smith machine only | ~$4,500–$5,500 | Lifetime limited | 4.6 / 5.0 |
| Vulcan Olympus FT + Smith Machine | 2 × 80kg or 105kg | 1:1 & 2:1 | 80–105kg (1:1) / 40–52.5kg (2:1) | Yes — power rack + Smith | ~$4,499–$5,198 | Lifetime frame | 4.7 / 5.0 |
| Sumo Strength Evolve FT | 2 × 75kg (upgradeable to 150kg) | 2:1 | 37.5kg (75kg upgraded) | Yes — power rack | ~$3,299–$4,099 | Lifetime (4mm) / 10yr (2mm) | New product |
| VERVE Tori Free Standing Cable Machine | 1 × 150kg | 2:1 | 75kg | No | ~$2,799 | Lifetime frame | — |
| Inspire Fitness FTX | 2 × 75kg | 2:1 | 37.5kg | No | ~$2,500–$3,500 | Lifetime limited | 4.5 / 5.0 |
| VERVE Tori Cable Attachment | 1 × 150kg | 2:1 | 75kg | Yes (with existing rack) | ~$2,899 | Lifetime frame | 5.0 / 5.0 |
| VERVE Tori Cable Crossover | 2 × 150kg | 2:1 | 75kg | No | ~$4,999 | Lifetime frame | — |
Prices are approximate AUD and may vary with current promotions. "Effective max" is the resistance felt at the handle after the pulley ratio is applied. Verify current pricing directly with each manufacturer.
How to choose the right functional trainer.
Decide if you need barbell training too. This is the single biggest decision. If you want to squat, bench press, and overhead press with a free barbell — not just cables — you need a unit that doubles as a power rack. The VERVE Tori Functional Trainer Rack is one of the few machines in Australia that does both. All-in-one units like the Force USA G20 offer barbell work through a Smith machine, which is guided rather than free-weight.
Check the weight stack size and pulley ratio. Most functional trainers use a 2:1 pulley ratio, which halves the effective resistance at the handle. A "150kg" stack on a 2:1 ratio gives you 75kg of actual resistance per side. That's plenty for most lifters, but advanced users should confirm the effective max meets their needs. Some machines (like the original Force USA G20) use a 1:1 ratio, making the stack weight equal to the felt resistance — so always compare apples to apples.
Measure your space carefully. An all-in-one trainer like the Force USA G20 Pro occupies roughly 190 × 169cm and weighs 620kg — it's not going back through the door easily. The VERVE Tori Functional Trainer Rack has a smaller base footprint and modular design that lets you configure it around your space. Standalone units like the Inspire FTX have the smallest footprint and work well in corners. Always factor in clearance for cable movement and barbell loading.
Think about the upgrade path. A functional trainer is a long-term investment. Can you add a lat pulldown seat later? A low row foot plate? A Smith machine attachment? Modular storage? The VERVE Tori system is designed around progressive upgrades — start with the base unit and add accessories as your training evolves and budget allows. Closed all-in-one systems like the G20 come loaded from day one but offer fewer modular expansion options.
Commercial vs home use — different build requirements. Commercial functional trainers must withstand multiple daily users, cable wear from high-rep work, and years of continuous loading. Look for powder-coated finishes, thick-gauge steel, and commercial-rated warranties. For home use, a lighter-duty frame may be perfectly adequate — but if you plan to train seriously for years, buying commercial-grade from the start avoids a costly upgrade later.
Frequently asked questions.
The best functional trainer in Australia depends on your use case. For a combined power rack and functional trainer with a modular upgrade path, the VERVE Tori Functional Trainer Rack offers dual 150kg weight stacks, 75 × 75mm commercial-grade steel, and full compatibility with the VERVE attachment ecosystem at around $5,999 AUD. For an all-in-one home gym with a Smith machine included, the Force USA G20 Pro at ~$7,499 AUD packs more features into one footprint.
The VERVE Tori is worth it if you want a single unit that functions as both a full power rack and a dual-stack cable machine, with the option to add a Smith Machine attachment separately. Its main advantage over standalone functional trainers is barbell compatibility — you get free-weight squats, bench press, and overhead press plus cable work in one frame. It's particularly strong value for commercial gyms or home gyms that want to grow with attachments over time.
The Force USA G20 Pro (~$7,499 AUD) is the better choice if you want everything in one sealed unit: functional trainer, Smith machine, power rack, and leg press out of the box. The VERVE Tori Functional Trainer Rack (~$5,999 AUD) is the better choice if you prefer heavier-gauge steel (75 × 75mm, 3mm), a broader attachment ecosystem, and the flexibility to add only the modules you actually need. The Tori supports free-weight barbell training inside the rack; the G20's barbell work runs through its Smith machine.
A functional trainer typically has two independent, adjustable cable pulleys on a single compact frame, designed for hundreds of exercises from different angles. A cable crossover uses a wider frame with two separate weight stacks positioned further apart, designed primarily for chest flys and wide-stance cable movements. Functional trainers are more space-efficient for home gyms; cable crossovers suit commercial environments with more floor space.
A 2:1 pulley ratio means the cable passes through two pulleys, so the user lifts half the actual weight on the stack. If you select 60kg on a 2:1 machine, you feel 30kg of resistance at the handle. This is standard across most functional trainers including the VERVE Tori, Force USA G20 Pro, and Inspire Fitness FTX. It allows for smoother cable travel and faster responsiveness during functional training exercises. Always check the ratio when comparing weight stack sizes between machines.
Yes. The VERVE Tori Cable Attachment (~$2,899 AUD) is designed to bolt onto the VERVE Zen Power Rack, Satori Power Rack, and VERVE rigs. It adds a 150kg weight stack and full cable training capability to your existing frame, making it the most cost-effective way to get functional trainer capability if you already own a VERVE rack. All you need are compatible 75 × 75mm uprights with 18mm holes.
A standalone functional trainer like the Inspire FTX needs roughly 1.5m × 1m of floor space, plus 1.5–2m of clearance in front for cable exercises. A combined unit like the VERVE Tori Functional Trainer Rack requires roughly 2m × 1.5m for the machine itself, plus barbell loading clearance on both sides (at least 60cm per side). Ceiling height matters too — most units are 2.2–2.3m tall, fitting under standard Australian garage ceilings of 2.4m with minimal clearance.
All three are Australian-owned brands with modular rack-and-cable systems and lifetime frame warranties. The VERVE Tori has the largest weight stacks (2 × 150kg) and the broadest attachment ecosystem. The Vulcan Olympus offers both 1:1 and 2:1 pulley ratios for more weight options and includes a Smith machine option from ~$4,499 AUD. The Sumo Evolve enters at a lower price point (~$3,299 AUD) with upgradeable 75kg stacks and a growing modular system, but uses lighter 60 × 60mm uprights. Choose VERVE for maximum cable resistance and attachment depth, Vulcan for the dual pulley ratio and bundled Smith machine, or Sumo for the lowest entry price with room to grow.
Functional trainers are excellent for building muscle because they provide constant tension throughout the entire range of motion — something free weights cannot always offer. Cable movements are particularly effective for isolation exercises like flys, lateral raises, tricep pushdowns, and cable curls. Combined with a power rack for compound barbell lifts (as with the VERVE Tori), a functional trainer can support a complete hypertrophy programme without needing any other equipment.
Sources & references.
- Garage Gym Reviews — Inspire Fitness FT2 Functional Trainer Review — garagegymreviews.com
- Strong Home Gym — 7 Best Functional Trainers for 2026 — stronghomegym.com
- Trustpilot — VERVE Fitness Verified Customer Reviews — trustpilot.com
- Force USA — G20 Pro All-In-One Trainer Specifications — forceusa.com
- Inspire Fitness — FTX Functional Trainer Specifications — inspirefitness.com
- Fitness Australia — Australian Fitness Industry Equipment Guidelines — fitness.org.au
- VERVE Fitness — Tori Functional Trainer Rack Product Page — vervefitness.com.au
- Vulcan Fitness — Olympus Functional Trainer with Smith Machine Specs — vulcanfitness.com.au
- Sumo Strength — Evolve Functional Trainer Product Page — sumostrength.com.au
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