Functional Trainers & Cable Crossovers

There are a few different variations to cable crossover machines, but they will generally include some sort of cable or pivoting pulley system that can be pulled in different directions to work different parts of the body. These can be either a dual cable crossover machine or a single station. These cables will be attached to weights, with a handle attachment at the user end. The weight amount can then be altered to increase the loading and intensity of an exercise. There are two main types of weight selection when it comes to cable machines. This includes weight plate loaded machines, where the user can load on separate weight plates of their choosing. The other type is a weight stack machine, where the weights themselves are encased within the frame of the machine itself. The weight can then be altered via an adjustable pin.

Cable crossover machine exercises are efficient at accessing a greater number of muscles that are often missed, making them imperative for a true full-body workout. You may have seen one at your local gym or fitness centre and been struck by its apparent intricacy and complex design, but know that it’s not as convoluted as it might appear at first.

Cable machines are often considered safer and easier to use than free weights (such as dumbbells or barbells), as there is never any risk of a weight falling on any part of your body (except for changing weights on a plate loaded machine). While users aren’t immune to injury, you can be rest assured that all the weight is secured by a sturdy frame that protects you if weights are suddenly dropped or something goes wrong.

Cable crossover machines are the ultimate functional trainer, building strength and working muscle groups in a way that simpler free weights just can’t match. There’s a lot that even beginners can get out of a cable machine, and can often be preferable for those starting out in their weight training journey.

It’s no secret that cable crossover machines are the go-to exercise station for working the pectoral muscles. They’re known for their ability to deliver targeted strength and muscle gain in the chest as they give the user the ability to manipulate different angles and change attachments according to the exercise.

Cable machines offer a more comprehensive workout for the chest, as the range of movement in cable exercises targets a wider variety of muscles, accessing many smaller muscles that aren’t often worked in free weight training.

Cable machines also allow for an easier progression of weight increments, meaning you can accelerate your strength training and muscle growth more efficiently, and make tracking your progress easier.

In cable exercises, you have greater freedom to manipulate different angles and body positions, targeting the chest in many different ways to work each and every muscle fibre. This freedom of movement also allows your arms to work independently of each other, meaning a stronger side can’t compensate for the other, ironing out strength and muscle imbalances.

Below are some good exercises to get you started:

There the cable crossover, which is a classic cable machine exercise, and targets your lower chest (pectoralis major).

Then there’s a cable press, which will not only work your chest, but will deliver strength gains to the rest of your upper body, working the core, obliques and lower back.

Lastly, there’s the cable fly, which is another classic of the cable machine. Performing flys with a cable machine as opposed to dumbbells has the advantage of having no resting point, so your chest is always under tension throughout the entire exercise. This makes it a much more efficient workout and will deliver results noticeably faster.

While free weights such as dumbbells or barbells can be used to good effect, cable machines offer the best possible chance to accelerate your chest gains. If you’re looking to improve results in your chest in an efficient, safe and targeted way, cable exercises are honestly one of your options.

When it comes to weight training, you’re main two options are between a cable machine, or free weights. Free weights include any weights that aren’t attached to a machine and are therefore ‘free’ to move in any direction independent of a cable, cord, rope, or band. This includes a broad range of devices such as dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells or weighted balls. Cable machines are gym stations, usually with a large steel frame and a built-in weight stack. The weights are then usually controlled by a pulley system with cables and handles on one end. There are also plate-loaded cable machines that allow the user to load on conventional weight plates of their choosing.

While both of these have the capability to deliver an excellent workout, there are a few key differences between the two that you should consider before choosing the right option for you.

The advantages of a cable machine include increased safety and security, as the weights are secured by a large, sturdy frame, there is a little risk of a weight dropping or falling on the floor or on a part of the user’s body. Cable machines are also considered easier to use, especially for beginners, as the cable will guide you through the range of motion and improve your technique.

Free weights, on the other hand, have the advantage of a larger selection of weights to choose from, more variation, as well as being able to work on speed and power training. Free weights are also a good option for those trying to save space in their workout area, as they are generally a lot easier to store and move around. Free weights are also more affordable than a cable machine, and more options are available for different budgets. Cable machines have a high entry point in terms of price, especially for a good quality one.

If you’re still unsure which will work best for you, speak to our friendly team and we’ll help you along your fitness journey.

Plate loaded cable crossover machines are functional gym stations that allow the user to load on conventional weight plates that are then operated by cables with handle attachments. These are different to other gym stations like a weight stack machine, where the weights themselves are encased within the frame of the machine itself and can then be altered via an adjustable pin.

Plate loaded cable crossover machines can be used for a full body functional workout across multiple planes of motion, meaning they are bound to accelerate your strength training in a way no other piece of equipment quite can. Improving the strength and functionality of any muscle group is best achieved when using multiple angles and a mixture of exercises, which is exactly why cable crossover machines are some of the most efficient and beneficial tools for accelerating your personal fitness.

Plate loaded machines have the advantage of a high weight capacity, allowing for greater access to a wider choice of weights. CORTEX’s plate loaded machines will go to a maximum of 200kg, meaning users have the freedom to accelerate their training to those higher levels.

Plate loaded machines don’t require much maintenance, as they are relatively simple in their design compared to other gym stations. As they have fewer moving parts, they can be a lot easier to clean and repair.

They’re a comparatively cheap gym station, and allow you to make greater use of the weight plates you already own. However, if you don’t already have your own weight plates, this will create a greater up-front cost as you’ll have to buy weights along with the machine. You also have the option of purchasing a gym station package as part of your machine, where weight plates, bars or benches will be included in one convenient purchase.

While the all-in-one experience that weight-stack machines can offer is tempting, consider whether a plate loaded machine is more suited to your workout or fitness space. If you’re unsure, speak to our friendly staff and we’ll help you along your fitness journey.