Best Cable Crossover Machine Guide & Pulley Machines Reviews 2024 + Workouts
Looking to build strong chiseled Pecs?
Maybe you have been thinking of adding a cable crossover machine or functional fitness machine and are trying to decide how to choose the best crossover machine.
Get This:
Cable Crossover machines work more than the Pecs, in fact they can be used to work every major muscle group.
Just Google Cable Exercises “back” and 7 different exercises pop up!
It just goes to show how versatile a cable machine is. It is a well rounded piece of equipment and an excellent addition to a home gym.
Picture |
Cable Crossover Machines |
Our Rating |
Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Editors Choice 
Body-Solid Powerline Cable Crossover Machine - High and Low Pulleys Gym Equipment for Home, Functional Trainer, Total Body Exercise, Cable Fly and Crossover Workouts
|
PowerLine PCCO90X Cable Crossover |  |
Body-Solid Powerline Cable Crossover Machine - High and Low Pulleys Gym Equipment for Home, Functional Trainer, Total Body Exercise, Cable Fly and Crossover Workouts
|
Valor Fitness Cable Crossover Machine - 17 Adjustable Positions with Pull Up Bars, Max Weight 200 lb. Plate Loaded Pulley System for Home Gym Power Workout - Handles Included - BD-61
|
Valor Fitness BD-61 Cable Crossover Station |  |
Valor Fitness Cable Crossover Machine - 17 Adjustable Positions with Pull Up Bars, Max Weight 200 lb. Plate Loaded Pulley System for Home Gym Power Workout - Handles Included - BD-61
|
XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine Home Gym
|
XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine | |
XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine Home Gym
|
Body-Solid (GDCC200 Cable Crossover Exercise Machine for Home & Light Commercial Gym, Functional Training Center with Dual Weights Stack & Pulley Cable Workout Machines for Strength Training
|
Body-Solid Functional Cable Cross Machine |  |
Body-Solid (GDCC200 Cable Crossover Exercise Machine for Home & Light Commercial Gym, Functional Training Center with Dual Weights Stack & Pulley Cable Workout Machines for Strength Training
|
Light Commercial FreeMotion EXT Dual Cable Crossover Silver Machine with Weight Stacks, Rotating Arms and Swivel Pulleys.
|
Freemotion Dual Cable EXT Crossover |  |
Light Commercial FreeMotion EXT Dual Cable Crossover Silver Machine with Weight Stacks, Rotating Arms and Swivel Pulleys.
|
So, What’s next?
We want to show you why we love the cable crossover and functional fitness machines so much. We have compiled a short list of workout videos using the cable crossover and functional fitness machines, plus explained a few differences between certain models and styles.
We outline what we believe is important to look for when choosing a machine, and then review 7 of the most popular machines available today.
Ready to get down?
Contents
Best cable machine workouts
These workouts are sorted by muscle group and/or sport targeted.
The How To and What not to do:
How do the Cable Crossover
Lance from Livestrong demonstrates the cable crossover. This video is perfect for the beginner, as he addresses every detail the beginner needs to know before performing the exercise.
What NOT to do
Vince from V Shred explains the mechanics of Chest Fly’s and how to activate the CHEST muscle instead of other shoulder and back muscles.
The proper form Vince demonstrates will show any Cable Crossover machine users how to maximize chest activation and efficiently use their workout time to meet their goal of defined, strong chest muscles.
Best cable machine workouts for Pecs
How to Build Lower Pecs
This is another video by Vince of V Shred. What we like about this video is Vince explains the different chest muscles in a little detail before he get is into the exercises.
This is important, because in order to properly work a muscle, it is best if you know how that muscle works, and can visualize it in action.
The best weightlifters and body builders know that lifting is NOT a mindless activity, at least, not if you want to be the best, and use your time efficiently.
How To: Upper, Middle and Lower Cable Chest Fly
Victor explains proper form for the cable crossover and cable chest fly which address the upper, mid and lower Pecs.
Lower Body Workouts with a cable Machine
Cable Ankle Strap Exercises
Katherine Vega shows us some moves we can do with the ankle strap that is included with most systems, in this short lower body workout video.
Full Body Routines
Full Body Workout with a Cable Machine
Alfonso with FitFluential shows the athlete how to use one simple machine to get a full body workout. Includes chest, back, biceps, triceps, glutes and legs.
Workouts for the back
Get a Wider back with a cable crossover machine
Jim Stoppani offers us a novel way to build a HUGE back using the cable crossover machine. He also offers one sneaky tip at the end to modify a fixed weight stack.
9 Killer Back Exercises Just what it says, 9 back exercises, with heavy focus on the lats.
Cable Machine Abs Workout
3 Cable Exercises for ABS
Eric demonstrates and explains proper form for three abs exercises. Its like a personal trainer from home. Highly Recommended abs video.
Build your Obliques The woodchopper is a very effective obliques exercise. Scott demonstrates proper form and explains the move completely so that you TRULY target the oblique’s, which is actually challenging to do.
Sport Specific workouts
MMA Training Workout with a Cable Machine
Naudi Aguilar gives a functional training using a cable machine. The audio is not great, but the video demonstrates the versatility of a cable machine and proves it can be used for just about any athlete in any sport.
Why do some Cable Crossover machines feel heavier with the same amount of weight?
We hear this question a lot.
On one machine, or at one gym, the athlete can lift 50 lbs, but o a different machine, only 25.
So what gives? Why do machines vary so much?
As it turns out, this is an important concept, and it has to do with the pulleys on machines acting as levers and carrying some of the weight.
Single pulley vs. double pulley. Makes a ton of difference.
What you need to understand about the pulleys on cable crossover (and other machines) is that, the more pulleys that are used to pull the weight, the less heavy the weight will feel.
Lee Hayward explains this in detail, and it is an important concept to grasp before you purchase a machine and are left wondering why it feels so much different than the one at the gym.
How to choose the best cable Crossover machine for your home gym?
What to consider before you chose the best cable Crossover machine for your home gym:
Ratios
This has to do with the amount of weight you select, vs. the amount of resistance your muscles actually feel.
Basically this:
The more pulleys a machine has, the less weight you will feel on the muscle, aka resistance.
For Example:
- A 2:1 ratio means you load two lbs of weight, and get 1 lb of resistance.
- A 1:1 ratio means you load one pound and feel 1 lb of resistance.
THIS finding surprised us:
Commercial grade machines, the kind you find in gold gym or 24 hr fitness, usually have the highest ratios. So you could load 75 lbs, and only feel 25 lbs. Crazy right?
TOP 7 Best Cable Crossover Machine Reviews 2024
Powertec Fitness Functional Trainer Deluxe
- The new design allows for the functional trainer deluxe to be upgraded with two stacked weight systems (ws-190) and maximize its load capacity to an unparalleled 1000 lbs
- The combination of the cable System and the easy load slide rods provide for a precise gliding and smooth operation
- The featured ring stoppers are designed to stop the weight carriages from traveling to undesirable distances
- The System can be used with Olympic weight plates or upgraded to accept stacked weight plates
- Max load capacity - chine up bars: 400 lbs. Carriage/cable: 500 lbs. Each side
Review: This Functional fitness trainer is a game changer because it can accept weight plates or be upgraded to use weight stacks.
But that is not all! It can be loaded with up to 1000 lbs. It uses a combination of a cable system with easy load slide rods for precise smooth movement.
Pros
- extra “weight horns” allow you to add weight to specific moves.
- Features ring stoppers to control the weight and keep it from falling
- Nearly 80” wide, perfect for Cable Crossover
- 82” high
- 400 lb capacity chin up bar
Cons
- Weighs sold separately, and weight stacks require an upgrade.
Our Take
Hardcore Home Gym equipment. If you are looking to beast, this is the machine for you.
Bonus Video:
This video demonstrates a lot of exercises done on the Powertec FTD. This gives you a good idea of the variety available with this machine.
PowerLine PCCO90X Cable Crossover
- INDUSTRY LEADER: For 30+ years, Body Solid has held the widest array of products designed to meet the demands of the ever-changing fitness industry (home gym, free weight machines, treadmills, bikes, ellipticals, weight plates, kettlebells, dumbbells, flooring, accessories and more). Our products are cutting edge and reliable and are built for Life……Your Life.
- SUPERIOR QUALITY: The Body-Solid Cable Crossover machine is a testament to our commitment to quality and reliability. It is a top-tier gym equipment, designed with an industry-leading technology that features a patented nylon bushing technology and eight sealed ball bearing, high resin pulleys. This cable machine is not just a piece of equipment, it's an investment in your health and fitness goals.
- VERSATILITY: The Body-Solid Cable Crossover machine offers total body exercise with an endless array of high and low pulley exercises. The top and bottom pulleys swivel smoothly and fully with over 180° of movement, allowing for frictionless guidance in all directions.
- EXERCISES: Use this home gym to complete a variety of full body workouts (pec fly, bench, incline, crossover, upright row, deltoid raise, shoulder press, close grip front lat pullup and pulldown, bent over row, seated row, ab crunch, oblique bend, tricep press down, outer and inner thigh abduction, calf press, reverse fly, glute kickback and many more.
- DIMENSIONS: This CABLE CROSSOVER is a dynamic addition to any home gym and garage gym exercise program. Measures 37"x113"x83" and weighs 102lbs. 10 year manufacutrer warranty on frame, and 1 year on parts.
Review: This budget priced home gym Cable Crossover machine can be used with standard and Olympic weight plates, offers a full 180 degree range of motion, and you can work every area of the body with this machine.
Pros
- Includes ankle strap
- 82” high, assembled
- Can hold up to 40lbs on one side
- Smooth clean movement
- 1:2 ratio. For every 2 pounds loaded on the machine, you will have 1 lb of resistance
Cons
- One high and one low pulley position, pulley is not adjustable
Our Take
Best cable crossover machine for home gyms on a budget.
Body-Solid Functional Cable Cross Training Center
- INDUSTRY LEADER: For 30+ years, Body-Solid has held the widest array of products designed to meet the demands of the ever-changing fitness industry (home gym, free weight machines, treadmills, bikes, ellipticals, weight plates, kettlebells, dumbbells, flooring, accessories and more). Our products are cutting edge and reliable and are built for Life……Your Life.
- VERSATILE & CUSTOMIZABLE: This dual independent weight stack system provides dedicated resistance with true isolateral movements. From cable crossovers and shoulder presses to pull-ups, leg kickbacks and everything in between, make a motion to improve your core, build your strength and increase your endurance with this exercise machine.
- STURDY CONSTRUCTION: This cable crossover machine has a sturdy construction and an extra-wide mainframe provides users with a high-quality machine that is both cost-effective and budget-friendly. This machine allows users to access a near-unlimited number of high and low pulley exercises while working every major muscle group. Includes two 160 lb. weight stacks (weight ratio is 1/2 : 1).
- EXERCISES: Use this home gym to complete a variety of full body workouts (pec fly, bench, incline, crossover, upright row, deltoid raise, shoulder press, close grip front lat pullup and pulldown, bent over row, seated row, ab crunch, oblique bend, tricep press down, outer and inner thigh abduction, calf press, reverse fly, glute kickback and many more.
- DIMENSIONS: Heavy-duty construction with 11-gauge, 2" x 4" oval tubing with an electrostatically applied powder coat finish. Measures 43"x 73"x 84" and weighs 514lbs. This product is Commercial Rated and features a Lifetime Warranty on frames, welds, weight plates & guide rods. 3 Years on pulleys, bushing, bearings & hardware. 1 Year on cables, upholstery, grips and all other components.
Review: The Body Solid Cable crossover includes weigh stacks on both sides with 160 lb stacks on each side.
Pros
- 1:2 ratio. For every 2 pounds loaded on the machine, you will have 1 lb of resistance
- 60” between Pulleys
- 19 pulley adjustments
- Smooth as any commercial Machine
- Pull up bar with tow possible positions
Cons
- Stacks use numbers instead of weight; however each plate is 10 lbs, so it is easy math to find the weight you are using. Limited to 160 lbs on each side
Our Take
This s a quality home Cable Crossover machine with a space saving footprint that is compact without being too narrow.
BodyCraft HFT Functional Trainer Home Gym
Review: This functional trainer includes cable crossovers and so much more.
This machine includes a long and short bar, triceps rope, multi grip chin bar, strap for assisted pull ups, ankle straps, and two handles for the cable crossovers and more.
Pros
- 31 height positions, very adjustable
- 150 lb stacks on either side, 2: 1 ratio, every 2 lbs loaded, gives 1 lb of resistance
- Stack covers, a nice safety feature
- Compact footprint
Cons
- Will need to stand in front of the machine for cable crossovers, as opposed to standing between the columns
Our Take
High Quality Functional training machine, with hundreds of possible exercises, including the cable Crossover, to work all muscle groups at home.
Excellent for tight quarters one of the best cable machines for small spaces.
Valor Fitness BD-61 Cable Crossover Station
- Sturdy Construction: Built with heavy duty high-quality steel for durability and reliability. Rubber end caps on each foot add to the safety and stability of the machine, while also protecting your home or gym floor.
- Floor Mounting Option: For those seeking extra stability, this Cable Crossover Machine can be anchored to the ground, with all necessary hardware included.
- Adjustable for Custom Workouts: With 17 adjustable positions and a versatile cable pulley system, this machine adapts to your workout needs, providing a more intense workout as you step out for additional stretch.
- Smooth and Stable Movement: The double bar track design offers enhanced stability and fluid movement, whether you're using standard 1" plates or 2" bumper plates. The machine includes a high and low pulley system, as well as weight plate storage pegs for a clean and organized workout space.
- All-in-One Cable Machine: This unit isn’t just a cable crossover; it comes equipped with a lat pull-down bar, curl / row bar, two single strap handles, and a pull-up station, making it a comprehensive workout station for a total body workout.
Review: The Valor Fitness BD-61 is an at home Cable Crossover machine at a very affordable price. It has 17 adjustments; a high pulley, low pulley and a multi grip pull up station.
Pros
- .75 to 1 ratio on Cable Crossovers, meaning if you use 20 lbs in weight, it is equivalent to 15 lbs of resistance which is better than many higher priced machines, because effectively means you are lifting more weight.
- Wide enough to place a sit-up bench between columns
- Includes ankle strap. Can perform Cable kickbacks.
- Includes lat bar and curl bar.
Cons
- No weight included, one reason the machine is affordable
Our Take
The price to benefit ratio is high on this machine, small cost, lots of great features and functionality.
XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine
- CUSTOMIZABLE RESISTANCE: Dual 200 lb weight stacks with a 2:1 resistance ratio allow users of various fitness levels to tailor the intensity of their workouts to their needs.
- INDUSTRIAL STRENGTH: With a weight exceeding 800 lbs, the XMARK FT Cable Machine boasts a robust steel mainframe construction. Its commercial-grade pull-up rig and pulley system offer exceptional solidity and smoothness.
- UNPARALLED QUALITY: The XMARK Functional Trainer stands out as the premier choice for a high-end, professional cable machine suitable for home gyms, studios, and light commercial clubs.
- ATTACHMENTS INCLUDED: Users can target specific muscle groups and perform diverse movements with the various attachments included with our trainer (hand straps, handles, tricep ropes, bars, and more).
- FREIGHT SHIPMENT: Realizing this is a significant investment for our customers, XMARK ships your cable machine in a reinforced crate via freight carrier ensuring it arrives in pristine condition. An agent will contact you to schedule a curb-side delivery appointment. A valid phone number is required at time of purchase.
Review: This functional trainer has 200lb weight stacks that use solid metal plates, on either side. The pulley is completely adjustable, and the system comes with ankle straps, straight bar, triceps rope, strength bar and more.
Pros
- Loaded with 200lbs stacks on each side
- Nearly 71 inches wide (65” of interior width)
- 2:1 ratio, every 2 lbs loaded, gives 1 lb of resistance
Cons
- Can not be adjusted or upgraded to accept more weight, but 200 lbs covers a lot of ground on its own.
Our Take
For the price, a 200 lb weight stack is a good value. Some more expensive machines have been known to have smaller stacks. As far as value go one of the best cable machines available.
Light Commercial FreeMotion EXT Dual Cable Crossover
- STATE-OF-THE-ART STRENGTH TRAINING EQUIPMENT- Step up your fitness routine with the FreeMotion EXT Dual Cable Crossover constructed out of sturdy 7 and 11 gauge steel tubing for outstanding durability and can support up to 350 lbs. Plus, it is electrostatically powder-coated for added resilience. Dual Cable Cross Dimensions: 60 L x 113 W x 84 H inches / Weight: 925 pounds.
- VERSATILE AND DURABLE DESIGN - Its durable and versatile features can withstand frequent heavy use to ensure optimum exercise. This well-designed system is ideal for a full-body exercise that improves strength, tone, and stamina. Each arm rotates vertically in 12-Inch setting and horizontally in 9-Inch setting to accommodate nearly any movement pattern. Arms are counterbalanced for easier positioning.
- ENDLESS VARIETY OF STANDING STRENGTH EXERCISES - Perform a variety of standing strength exercises to condition different sets of muscles. Some exercises allow you to focus on muscles used in specific sports such as golf or tennis. It also comes with a velcro-padded ankle cuff for more comfortable and secure placement. Plus, the weight stacks are enclosed to limit access to moving parts.
- FREEMOTION SYSTEM FOR A MORE CUSTOM WORKOUT - The FreeMotion system permits a diverse range of activity for a more custom and comprehensive workout.
- DAZADI MONEY BACK GUARANTEE and WARRANTY - Your item will arrive with all the necessary parts, without defect and/or shipping damage. Well ship new replacement parts or an entirely new bike for free in the event of defect or damage. If you still arent satisfied, youll get a full refund. All our items ship for free to your door, but we also offer in-home delivery and assembly for an added fee. Manufacturers Warranty: Lifetime for frame, 10 years for parts, 1 year for cables and labor, 90 day
Review: This Commercial gym quality Cable crossover machine is loaded with 210 lbs of weight on each side and adjusts to be 113” wide to accommodate all body types, making it ideal for Professional gyms.
Pros
- 210 weight stacks on either side.
- 113” wide, fully extended
- Stands up to heavy use, standard gym conditions
- Includes ankle cuff
- Weight stacks are enclosed, for safety
Cons
- High ratio 3:1 meaning you load 75lbs, but only get 25lbs of resistance
Our Take
This gym quality machine can open to be very wide, accommodating very tall people and allowing for easy cable Crossovers.
What muscle groups do you want to work on your cable machine, and what cable crossover machine did you decide to buy.
We are looking for the best cable crossover machine, so we want to hear your thoughts in the comments below.