expired Posted by Seltzer • Aug 12, 2022
Aug 12, 2022 7:27 PM
Item 1 of 5
Item 1 of 5
expired Posted by Seltzer • Aug 12, 2022
Aug 12, 2022 7:27 PM
Costco Members: Inspire Fitness SF3 Smith Functional Trainer w/ Folding Bench
+ Free Shipping$2,000
$2,500
20% offCostco Wholesale
Visit RetailerGood Deal
Bad Deal
Save
Share
Leave a Comment
Top Comments
I have the FTX, it's a great product, especially at sale prices. If I didn't already own that, I would be buying this.
Most of the differences are the size (this is wider and IMO better for some moves), the bench fully folds and collapses to hang out of the way, and it comes with a couple of different accessories.
Aside from that, and the most important differences, is that this has a bar for use as a Smith machine and doesn't require plates. The FTX comes with a curl bar for pulls but it doesn't really work for squats or press movements. This also means that since I'm a baby power lifter that doesn't go over 330 lbs I wouldn't need a separate rack and plates (at least another $600+) for bench and squat, saving me a lot of money and space.
This also has a way to do a "weight doubler" since pulleys aren't actually the full weight listed for what resistance you are moving. As per the manufacturer website, each stack is 165 lbs with a 2:1 ratio for 82.5 lbs per pulley {85 lbs max with 5 lbs Add-On Weights}. However, the "Weight Multiplier" "Doubles weight for heavy lifters, while using the smith bar" so the Smith actually has a functional 330 lbs rather than the 165 effective it would be otherwise.
The FTX doesn't have this and is confirmed on the FAQ website for that product [inspirefitness.com] "The FTX has a resistance ratio of 2:1 per pulley, which means the maximum weight you can lift per pulley is 82.5 lbs per pulley."
Hopefully that made sense without over-explaining.
I wanted to point out a few things to think about THIS trainer for anyone considering it.
Although I've never used this one, it appears the "Smith Machine" aspect is still flawed with these trainers. If you wanted to squat ATG (a$$ to grass), you have to set the bar at the lowest position and then stand up. Starting at the bottom of the squat isn't gonna kill you, but I've used mine with a similar setup and it absolutely sucks having to end your set at the bottom. You can't do a hard burn out set knowing you'll have to collapse at the end. I got stuck once. I could be wrong, but I don't see how you'd get around this.
If it is indeed wider than the FTX, I would 100% not go with this. Yes, the FTX is too close for dual cable flys, this one might allow it, but it's going to ruin cable bench presses which is one of the most amazing movements to do on this machine. I know the pictures show using a bar for various bench movements, but just like the squat, you'll have to start with the bar at the bottom of the bench. You will kill the range of motion because you won't be able to start with it low enough (it really needs to go through your chest to mimic the benefits of a real bench press) and it will kill your shoulders pressing from there. If you don't use the bar, the FTX is at a great width that allows for a cable press that isn't too wide and gives a crazy chest pump.
Someone mentioned these machines being too short, agree/disagree. I'm 6'0 and can't stand up and do tricep work… but I can on my knees or sitting on the bench it comes with.
Another comment was talking about benches, I just wanna confirm the FTX does come with an adjustable bench that hangs on the machine itself. It's lightweight and very low to the ground. That can be positive to help if you have back pain, a negative if you just don't like a low bench, but the biggest positive is it makes for an amazing bench to have sex on. I know this comment just took a turn, but the truth is that it's so low I can be sitting in it and my wife can ride my brains out. Adjust the angle of the bench that hits the right spot for her and we're both orgasming our faces off. Lol I'm not joking, it's worth it for that alone.
Anyways guys, I would say get the cheaper FTX Trainer from Costco unless I am way off on the dimensions and Smith Machine setup. ✌️
With this, you and a partner could literally bang out 10 reps each during a TV commercial because there are no plates to change. It makes everything so much quicker. Also, the machine has lots of creative options for use if you look online a little. Many online complaints come from not learning the machine functions or not reading instructions. If doing squats, go to the dollar store, buy a pool noodle, cut it shorter, and then slit it down the middle to wrap over the red bar.
76 Comments
Sign up for a Slickdeals account to remove this ad.
Our community has rated this post as helpful. If you agree, why not thank Seltzer
I have the FTX, it's a great product, especially at sale prices. If I didn't already own that, I would be buying this.
Most of the differences are the size (this is wider and IMO better for some moves), the bench fully folds and collapses to hang out of the way, and it comes with a couple of different accessories.
Aside from that, and the most important differences, is that this has a bar for use as a Smith machine and doesn't require plates. The FTX comes with a curl bar for pulls but it doesn't really work for squats or press movements. This also means that since I'm a baby power lifter that doesn't go over 330 lbs I wouldn't need a separate rack and plates (at least another $600+) for bench and squat, saving me a lot of money and space.
This also has a way to do a "weight doubler" since pulleys aren't actually the full weight listed for what resistance you are moving. As per the manufacturer website, each stack is 165 lbs with a 2:1 ratio for 82.5 lbs per pulley {85 lbs max with 5 lbs Add-On Weights}. However, the "Weight Multiplier" "Doubles weight for heavy lifters, while using the smith bar" so the Smith actually has a functional 330 lbs rather than the 165 effective it would be otherwise.
The FTX doesn't have this and is confirmed on the FAQ website for that product [inspirefitness.com] "The FTX has a resistance ratio of 2:1 per pulley, which means the maximum weight you can lift per pulley is 82.5 lbs per pulley."
Hopefully that made sense without over-explaining.
With this, you and a partner could literally bang out 10 reps each during a TV commercial because there are no plates to change. It makes everything so much quicker. Also, the machine has lots of creative options for use if you look online a little. Many online complaints come from not learning the machine functions or not reading instructions. If doing squats, go to the dollar store, buy a pool noodle, cut it shorter, and then slit it down the middle to wrap over the red bar.
It's nice but the smith bar is the least valuable part. It's not a solid bar (purposefully) but it feels cheaper in this regards too
I believe the cable management is better with this version looking at the photos but haven't actually tried out the new version
Sign up for a Slickdeals account to remove this ad.
Our community has rated this post as helpful. If you agree, why not thank SeabassTheGr899
1. I have a rack, barbell and free weight already and there is no way I will leave them and do the major compound lights on smith machine. Smith machines takes away the balance part of the movement as the bar is locked in and you only need to move it up or down.
2. The weight stacks are the same. The ratio is same 2:1
3. This takes more floor space.
If you don't have budget or space you must consider using that in getting a rack and free weight rather than functional trainer. So overall FTX is pretty good. Just my 2 cents.
I currently DIY'd a "functional trainer" on my squat rack (has a lat pull down on the back) by attaching pulleys at the top and then have pulleys attached via pegs for lower positions.
I will be seriously considering buying this if I can figure out how to fit it into my 10 X 15 shred shed in my back yard. Already have a Powertec Levergym in it as well as my squat rack.
Sign up for a Slickdeals account to remove this ad.
Obviously this takes up a smaller footprint, but is limited in weight as a trade off.
Leave a Comment