Sports & Fitness · Functional Trainers
What's the difference between a functional trainer and a cable crossover machine?
Reviewer consensus
Across the reviewers we read, a functional trainer is a relatively compact dual-pulley unit with adjustable arms, while a cable crossover is a wider frame with fixed high pulleys. Specialist sources note functional trainers are more space-efficient and versatile for a home gym, while crossovers give a wider stance for chest flyes. Many budget units in this category blend the two designs.

