Roundup

The Best Elliptical Machines for a Low-Impact Cardio Workout at Home Elliptical machines have come a long way, with major developments in specs and technology. Their ergonomic design maximizes the quality and intensity of your workout, incorporating both upper and lower body muscles. This provides you with a full-body workout to enhance your cardio fitness while maintaining the structural integrity of your joints. We consider that an all-around win. If you are on the hunt for the best elliptical of 2025 but aren’t sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find our top picks for the best elliptical machines and a comprehensive guide on what to consider before you make your purchase. Our Picks for the Best Ellipticals of 2025: Best Overall Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i Best Elliptical for Weight Loss: Sole Fitness E95 Best Elliptical for Joint Pain: Sole Fitness E35 Best Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer M6 Best Under Desk Elliptical: Cubii Go Most Comfortable Elliptical: Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11 Best Overall Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i NordicTrack FS10i Weight Capacity: 375 pounds Resistance Levels: 24 levels Monitor: 10-inch HD touchscreen Stride: 32-inches, auto-adjustable Machine Dimensions: 58.5 inches (L) x 29.5 inches (W) x 74 inches (H) Warranty: Ten-year frame Price: $1,999 Check Price Pros: Stride can be changed to elliptical, treadmill, or stair stepper Elliptical can support users up to 375 pounds Luxe features include oversized, cushioned pedals, HD touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity Cons: Elliptical weighs 284 pounds iFIT subscription costs extra after the 30-day trial has elapsed Transitioning between “modes” requires some extra exertion and time The NordicTrack FS10i isn’t your average elliptical—it combines a treadmill, elliptical, and stair stepper all into one machine designed to give you the flexibility to switch up your cardio. The 32-inch adjustable stride adjusts based on your leg movements. In other words, if you use the FS10i as a stair stepper, your legs move up and down, but your stride goes back and forth in elliptical mode. You can follow an iFIT class (with a $39/month subscription) on the 10-inch HD touchscreen, which tracks key stats such as time elapsed, speed, distance, and calories burned. Trainers can digitally adjust your incline up to 10 percent or tap into the 24 resistance levels based on the workout. If you’re working out manually, you can make these adjustments yourself via one-touch buttons next to the touchscreen. Best Elliptical for Weight Loss: Sole Fitness E95 SOLE E95 Elliptical Weight Capacity: 400 pounds Resistance Levels: 20 levels Monitor: Wi-Fi-enabled 13.3-inch touchscreen with screen mirroring Stride: 20 inches Machine Dimensions: 83 inches (L) x 34 inches (W) x 70 inches (H) Warranty: Lifetime on frame and flywheel, three years parts and electronics, and one year labor Price: $2,099 Check Price Pros: Free fitness app, plus integrated streaming services like Netflix Ergonomic, adjustable foot pedals Supports up to 400 pounds Engineered for quiet performance, even during tough workouts Cons: May take up too much space if limited on square footage Expensive If you’re on a fitness journey, a weight-loss diet and exercise are essential to achieving your goals. If you already have a favorite weight-loss program or weight-loss app, an elliptical can help you knock out your daily sweat session. While any elliptical will help you work toward your goal, the E95 stands out thanks to its free fitness app and integrated streaming services, perfect for when you need more motivation to get moving. Unlike some of the other ellipticals on our list, the E95’s companion app, Sole+, is free with your new machine. Sole+ includes more than 3,000 trainer-led workouts and classes for on and off your elliptical. For even more entertainment while you work out, the E95 is integrated with several streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and more. The Sole E95’s cushioned foot pedals are designed to keep your knees and ankles from feeling the brunt of an extended workout. The pedals adjust to fit your gait, but default to a two-degree inward angle. The Sole E95’s 20 resistance levels let you challenge yourself and can be easily switched via buttons on the handles. Sole’s drive system is engineered to stay quiet, but if you want to listen to your class or music on its built-in speakers, simply plug in your smart device and prop it up in the inserted tablet holder. RELATED: Best Home Gym Equipment Best Elliptical for Joint Pain: Sole Fitness E35 SOLE E35 Elliptical Weight Capacity: 350 pounds Resistance Levels: 20 levels Monitor: 10.1-inch touchscreen with screen mirroring Stride: 20 inches Machine Dimensions: 70 inches (L) x 31 inches (W) x 70 inches (H) Warranty: Lifetime frame, five years on parts, two years on labor Price: $1,599 Check Price Pros: Easy-to-use console Adjustable handlebars and footbeds Lifetime frame warranty Cons: Limited high-tech features Large footprint Sole+ is not integrated into the machine The Sole E35 Elliptical is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, simple elliptical with a smooth ride for joint comfort. It’s easy to set up and use and has everything you need to start working out in the comfort of your own home—no gym membership required. The Sole E35’s ramp-like design allows users to simply step on and start moving. With this elliptical, you can get a full-body workout without having to worry about straining your back or joints. It is equipped with 20 different levels of resistance so users can adjust their workouts according to their fitness levels and goals. With 10 preloaded workout programs plus free access to the Sole+ fitness app, even beginners can start their training immediately. Even though it’s not as heavy-duty as other ellipticals, the  Sole E35 works for users up to 300 pounds. And while it comes with all the features you’d expect from an elliptical, it also has some great extras that we love: built-in fans keep you cool during workouts, and a user-friendly, fully adjustable console ensures a comfortable workout. RELATED: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment Best Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer M6 Bowflex Max Trainer M6 Weight Capacity: 300 pounds Resistance Levels: 16 Monitor: 6-inch by 8-inch LCD/calorie burn meter Stride: 18 inches, adjustable Machine Dimensions: 46 inches (L)

The Best Power Racks of 2025: Our Top Picks for Strength Training A power rack allows you to safely perform weightlifting exercises like barbell squats and bench presses, without a spotter, in your home gym. Add-on accessories like pull-up bars, dip stations, and resistance bands can help you get the most out of your power rack, giving you the tools for a versatile full-body workout. Whether you have limited space or are looking for a budget-friendly power rack, there are options that may work for you. We compiled a list of the best power racks for your home gym with all the details you need to find the right equipment to take your fitness routine to the next level in 2024. Shane Sevcik—a USAW-1 (USA Weightlifting) certified coach, current USA Weightlifting Foundation board member, state record holder, and Masters Pan American and World title holder—also shares his insights into what to look for in power racks. Our Picks for the Best Power Racks of 2025 Best Overall Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-1000 Power Rack Best Folding Power Rack: Titan Fitness T-3 Series Folding Power Rack Best Short Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-1050 Short Power Rack Best Space-Saving Power Rack: Fringe Sport Retractable Power Rack Best Power Rack with Lat Pulldown: Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Strength Rack Power Cage Squat Rack Best Power Rack for Garage Gym: Rogue Fitness R-3 Power Rack Best Squat Rack: Fitness Reality Squat Rack Power Cage This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen. Best Overall Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-1000 Power Rack REP Fitness PR-1000 Power Rack Price: $400 Dimensions: 58 inches W x 83.6 inches H x 48 inches D Weight Capacity: 700 pounds Best For: Value shoppers who want a sturdy and compact power rack Check Price Pros: Built-in weight storage pegs help you stay organized and add stability to the base Dual pull-up bars with varying thicknesses for versatility Chrome-coated safeties and powder-coated steel resist rust Laser-engraved numbered uprights Plastic-lined J-hooks to protect your barbell Cons: May feel shaky when using heavier weights 14-gauge steel is less thick than other options on this list The REP Fitness PR-1000 Power Rack has a four-post frame made from 14-gauge steel with laser-cut holes spaced two inches apart. There are two pull-up bars—one is 1.25 inches thick, and the other is two inches thick—so you can do accessory work such as pull-ups and grip exercises without using additional space or buying a separate piece of equipment. The pull-up bars are strategically placed on the rack, spanning the front and back posts, contributing to the overall stability. There are built-in weight storage pegs on the back base for additional sturdiness. You can customize the rack using multiple accessory options such as safety straps, a dip station, and more. Tester Brandon Lunsford, C.P.T., CF-L1, used this rack to do exercises like squats, bench press, strict press, pull-ups, and more for almost two years. He describes it as an intermediate or beginner rack and noticed movement while un-racking 350 pounds. “The rack held the weight just fine, but there was some swaying after I removed the bar. I’d recommend it to a beginner or someone who doesn’t lift to that capacity because I was happy with it otherwise.” We like that the PR-1000 comes with chrome-coated safeties extending past the rack, offering an additional place for a barbell. The numbered uprights allow you to adjust the safeties or J-hooks quickly and never have to worry about your bar being crooked. “The J-hooks were easy to move, and the hole spacing of one inch is adequate to get the bar lined up where you need it,” Lunsford says. “I can attest to the functionality of the safeties; they worked great for me when I failed a heavy bench over 250 pounds.” Best Folding Power Rack: Titan Fitness T-3 Series Folding Power Rack Titan T-3 Series Power Rack 4.3 Dimensions: 46″ outside width; 24″ or 36″ inside depth; 82″ or 91″ height Materials: 2×3, 11-gauge steel Weight capacity: 1,100 pounds Hole spacing: Westside Check Price Pros: Foldable Westside hole spacing allows for precise adjustability Weight capacity of 1,100 pounds is on the higher end compared to other power racks on this list Reinforced J-cups have a protective lining Different heights to accommodate your space Cons: Safety bars not included Two-inch-by-three-inch tubing may not work with accessories purchased from other brands The Titan Fitness T-3 Series Power Rack is a wall-mounted power rack that folds to a closed position, which only sticks out five inches from the wall. The bolt-down uprights and side bracings keep it stable, so you feel comfortable lifting weights to 1,100 pounds. Those who want to use the dual pull-up bars for dynamic movements such as kipping pull-ups or toes-to-bar benefit from the added stability the floor attachment provides. The rear pull-up bar is two inches thick, and the front pull-up bar is the industry standard of 1.25 inches thick. This rack is made from 11-gauge steel and features two-inch by three-inch tubing. Typically, newer racks have three-inch by three-inch steel tubing, so attachments from other brands may not work. Lunsford says, “A rack is an essential piece of fitness equipment. What sets them apart is the build, value, and accessories. A full power rack of this style with a weight capacity of 1,100 pounds for around $400 is an excellent bang for the buck.” Lunsford says the brand uses manufacturing processes to elevate the overall quality. “The holes are laser cut instead of punched, and the brand uses robot welders instead of guides operated by humans.” This technique allows for more efficiency, precision, and consistency in enhanced craftsmanship. The laser-cut holes are two inches apart, and the bench and clean pull zone have Westside hole spacing—holes in the upright that are closer together for more precise positioning. Free shipping is available on all Titan products,

The 5 Best Outdoor Saunas for Getting Your Sweat On in 2025 Sauna bathing is an age-old Nordic tradition that can have huge benefits for your overall wellness. There are a variety of sauna styles available, from the traditional barrels to more modern cube designs with electric heaters, infrared heaters, or wood-burning stoves. Some newer models have high-tech features like surround-sound speakers, added LED light therapy, and charging docks for your electronics. However, all you need to reap the potential benefits of your sauna experience is a high-quality product you’ll actually use. We found six of the best outdoor saunas and included a comprehensive guide for picking the right sauna for you. We also tapped Saloni Sharma, M.D., Medhat Mikhael, M.D., and Earric Lee, a postdoctoral researcher studying exercise science and Sport and Health Sciences faculty member at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland (a.k.a., sauna central), to help us understand how sauna use can benefit athletes during training. Our Top Picks for the Best Outdoor Saunas of 2025  Best Overall Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna Best Outdoor Sauna Kit: SweatTent Outdoor Sauna Best Two-Person Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna Best Outdoor Cedar Sauna: Redwood Outdoors Cedar Barrel Sauna Best Outdoor Sauna for Cold Climates: Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Cabin Sauna This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen. Best Overall Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna Type: Infrared sauna Number of People: 5 Material: All-season carbonized cedar Dimensions: 82 inches W x 82.5 inches H x 51.5 inches D Temperature Range: 95–167 degrees Fahrenheit Extra Features: Built-in chromotherapy, panoramic glass exterior, mobile app remote control, Bluetooth-enabled surround sound speakers Cost: $11,699 Check Price Pros: Large windows offer lots of natural light High-tech features like speakers and mobile app control Lifetime warranty Cons: High price tag Not a traditional sauna experience If you’re seeking a more technology-forward sauna experience, Sun Home’s Luminar outdoor infrared sauna is an excellent model to invest in. This five-person model uses an infrared heating system, which you can control through your phone via a mobile app. Indoor saunas often have infrared heat, but Sun Home claims its Luminar model is more than 12.5 times more powerful at 500 watts than competitors. This sauna includes Bluetooth speakers and soothing LED chromotherapy, making sitting in a hot room more enticing to beginner bathers. Yes, it’s a pricey model, but it has ample features and floor-to-ceiling windows for a panoramic view of the outdoors. Best Outdoor Sauna Kit: SweatTent Outdoor Sauna SweatTent Outdoor Sauna Type: Tent sauna Number of People: 1–3 Material: Insulated, weather-proof Oxford 210D fabric Dimensions: 72 inches L x 72 inches W x 84 inches H Temperature Range: Up to 180–200 degrees Fahrenheit Extra Features: Waterproof cover, ergonomic fire poker, heat resistant gloves, 20 pounds of sauna rocks with basket Cost: $1,600 Check Price Pros: Three-minute setup You can leave the tent set up indefinitely unless there is extreme weather More affordable than permanent outdoor saunas Cons: You have to weigh down the tent skirt with weights or rocks so it does not blow over in windy conditions According to SweatTent, you can set up the SweatTent Outdoor Sauna in about three minutes. It is somewhat portable because it is simple to put up and take down. The material is durable, insulated, and weather-proof, so you can leave the sauna outdoors indefinitely. A wood-fired stove heats the SweatTent and comes with 20 pounds of sauna rocks, a fire poker, and heat-resistant gloves to feed the fire safely. The SweatTent is our favorite option for a complete sauna kit. It’s easy to set up, comparatively inexpensive, portable, and works well. Best Two-Person Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar 2-Person Infrared Sauna Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Infrared Sauna Type: Cube sauna Number of People: 2 Material: Grade-A carbonized wood exterior, cedar wood interior Dimensions: 57 inches W x 82.7 inches H x 51.5 inches D Temperature Range: 95–167 degrees Fahrenheit Extra Features: Low EMF/ELF shielding, app-enabled control system, Bluetooth surround sound speakers Cost: $10,299 Check Price Pros: Built with durable external materials to withstand the elements Setup is relatively simple Includes an EMF/ELF shielding Cons: Premium pricing The Sun Home Luminar Sauna is a cube sauna with a carbonized wood exterior and dura-glass windows built to withstand any climate conditions. Luminar has a compact footprint compared to other two-person cube saunas. It uses a combination of infrared and full-spectrum heaters positioned to maintain optimum heat regardless of exterior conditions. The choice of grade-A carbonized red cedar wood and thick double-pane glass throughout the sauna ensures durability and insulation. With nine heaters, including three far-infrared heaters under the bench and six full-spectrum heaters surrounding the cabin, the Luminar Outdoor Sauna guarantees an efficient and effective sauna session. Sun Home places these heaters strategically to envelop the users in 3D healing wavelengths from all angles. You can control the Luminar temperature from an app to start heating your sauna before you get home. It has Bluetooth surround-sound speakers and a panoramic view through the dura-glass windows. Best Outdoor Cedar Sauna: Redwood Outdoors Cedar Barrel Sauna Redwood Outdoors Cedar Barrel Sauna Type: Barrel sauna Number of People: 4–6 Material: Cedar Dimensions: 71.75 inches L x 84.5 inches W x 87.5 inches H Temperature Range: Up to 195 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the heater Extra Features: Bucket and ladle, backrest, sauna rocks, light fixture Cost: $5,899 Check Price Pros: Reviewers report customer service is very reliable Easy assembly Lots of add-on upgrades available Cons: Very basic option with no frills The Redwood Outdoors Cedar Barrel Sauna is a traditional barrel sauna made with red cedar. It has all the features you need with nothing extra. We appreciate that you can customize several parts of this dry sauna, from the heating mechanism (you can go the

The Strongest Pre-Workout Powders to Fuel Your Training in 2025 Whether you’re starting your fitness journey or are a seasoned gym rat, you’ve probably come across pre-workout. The strongest pre-workouts stand out from the pack because they are formulated with scientifically backed ingredients and doses to enhance your physical and mental performance. “How strong a pre-workout is depends on the compounds it has that stimulate the central nervous system, which helps increase energy and wakefulness,” says Alex Oskian, M.S., R.D.N. As a certified personal trainer, when I’m looking for the strongest pre-workout, I make sure it has four key ingredients: caffeine (at least 200mg), L-citrulline (at least 4,000mg), beta-alanine (at least 3,200mg), and betaine (at least 2,500mg). Caffeine is a stimulant that gives you an energy boost, L-citrulline is an amino acid that helps improve blood flow, beta-alanine is an amino acid that helps muscular endurance, and betaine is another amino acid that can help increase strength.  Our Picks for the Strongest Pre-Workouts of 2025: Strongest Pre-Workout for Power: Transparent Labs BULK BLACK Strongest Pre-Workout for Energy: Legion Pulse Strongest Pre-Workout for Focus: Onnit Alpha Brain Pre-Workout Strongest Budget Pre-Workout: Nutricost Pre-X Strongest Pre-Workout for Taste: Jacked Factory NitroSurge Strongest Natural Pre-Workout: Ora Organic Renewable Energy Strongest Pre-Workout for Tingles: Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train Strongest Pre-Workout for Pump: Gorilla Mode Strongest Pre-Workout with Creatine: C4 Ultimate Our team of expert testers, including personal trainers and nutritionists, tried more than 70 pre-workouts and reported which supplements delivered the most focus, power, and tingles. We then narrowed down our list to the nine strongest pre-workouts. This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen. Strongest Pre-Workout for Power: Transparent Labs BULK BLACK Transparent Labs BULK BLACK 4.5 Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.83 Amount of caffeine per serving: 275 milligrams Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Black Cherry, Cherry Kiwi, Peach Mango, Sour Gummy Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs Check Price Pros: Third-party tested and Informed Choice Certified Free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors Cons: 350mg of caffeine may be too intense for some people If your goal is to improve athletic performance and power output in the gym, then we recommend Transparent Labs BULK BLACK. This supplement contains a potent combination of 4,000mg of beta-alanine, 2,500mg of betaine anhydrous, and 10 other active ingredients. Beta-alanine, a nonessential amino acid, may improve potential power output by reducing muscle fatigue, allowing you to push out a few more reps while you exercise. And studies show betaine anhydrous may improve muscular endurance. These ingredients work together to enhance your training, paving the way for strength gains over time. I like to reach for a scoop of BULK BLACK before bodybuilding workouts (especially the Peach Mango and Watermelon Peach flavors) because it’s made with 8,000mg of citrulline malate. Some studies suggest citrulline malate may boost exercise and muscular performance, but more research is needed. Cory Kessler, C.P.T., C.F.N.C., has tried more than 25 pre-workouts. He tested the Blue Raspberry flavor of BULK BLACK before a cardio workout. “This has a subtle blue raspberry taste, but is very sweet, likely from the stevia,” he says. “While there are better-tasting strong pre-workouts, Bulk Black completely dissolved in my shaker bottle in only a few seconds with no clumps, grittiness, or residue.” After taking BULK BLACK, Kessler says he felt more energized and focused throughout his workout. “I started sweating almost immediately, and within five to 10 minutes, I had a boost of energy, a massive pump, and felt like I could lift harder and stronger,” he says. Kessler says while using this pre-workout, he felt the tingling sensation common with high doses of beta-alanine. Each serving of BULK BLACK contains 350mg of caffeine, which is close to the recommended daily limit of 400mg and may be too intense for some people. Related: Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine Review Strongest Pre-Workout for Energy: Legion Pulse Pre-Workout Legion Pulse Number of servings: 10 to 20 Cost per serving: $2.25 to $3.00 Amount of caffeine per serving: 350 milligrams Flavors: Apple Cider, Arctic Blast, Blood Orange, Blue Raspberry, Blueberry Lemonade, Cherry Limeade, Frosted Cranberry, Fruit Punch, Grape, Green Apple, Mojito, Piña Colada, Peach Ring, Pink Lemonade, Rainbow Sherbert, Sour Candy, Strawberry Kiwi, Strawberry Margarita, Tropical Punch, Watermelon Third-party tested: Labdoor Check Price Pros: All natural pre-workout formula contains six active ingredients and three mineral electrolytes 20 different flavor options Free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors Third-party tested by Labdoor for potency and purity Cons: Two-scoop serving size contains 350mg of caffeine, which may be too much for new pre-workout users or caffeine-sensitive individuals As a certified sports nutrition coach, I look for four main ingredients in a high-quality pre-workout supplement: caffeine, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, and L-citrulline. Each plays a key role in enhancing athletic performance. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, research shows beta-alanine may boost muscular endurance, betaine anhydrous can improve strength, and L-citrulline enhances oxygen and nutrient delivery to the muscles. Legion Pulse is our pick for the strongest pre-workout for energy because it contains all four of these ingredients, and it’s the only pre-workout on our list testers gave 5/5 for taste and effectiveness. I’ve tried more than 50 pre-workouts and think Legion Pulse is top-tier. I like that it’s free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors, and is third-party tested. It’s my pre-workout of choice for my morning training session because it gives me a nice burst of energy and a good pump.  Tester Kayla Godfrey has tried five different brands of pre-workout and says Pulse is her favorite because of its effectiveness. “I’ve been using Pulse three times a week for six months, and it always makes me feel energized and focused,” she says. “My goal is to improve my personal records and lift harder, so Pulse is my go-to

The Best Smith Machine for Your Home Gym in 2025 The Smith machine is a popular option for lifting without a spotter, and you don’t need a gym membership to enjoy its benefits. This equipment is a great home gym addition that provides extra protection for your bench presses, squats, deadlifts, rows, lunges, and more. Here are our top picks for the best Smith machine, plus Mauro S. Maietta, district fitness and education manager for Crunch Fitness, details the benefits and what to consider when choosing. Our Picks for the Best Smith Machines of 2025: Best All-in-One Smith Machine: Force USA G10 Pro All-in-One Trainer Best Budget Smith Machine: Sunny Health and Fitness Smith Machine Squat Rack Essential Series Best 2:1 Pulley Ratio Smith Machine: Force USA G3 All-in-One Trainer Best Smith Machine with Bench: Marcy Diamond 9010 Smith Cage Best Smith Machine on Amazon: Valor Fitness BE-11 This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen. Best All-in-One Smith Machine: Force USA G10 Pro All-in-One Trainer Force USA G10 Pro All In One Functional Trainer Footprint: 79.5 inches W x 87.5 inches H x 74 inches D Who Should and Shouldn’t Buy: Great for those who want a unit that can consolidate multiple pieces of commercial gym equipment into one machine with a smaller footprint; not a great option for those on a budget Price: $3,000 Check Price Pros: Highly customizable and versatile for a full-body workout All-in-one features are space-saving Includes dual pulley system Cons: Upgrades are expensive Self-assembly is a big job (professional assembly is an additional $800) If you are looking for a comprehensive Smith machine with multiple functions and a wide variety of additional parts, this Force USA all-in-one trainer helps you optimize and streamline your workout. It’s a highly customizable unit that combines eight strength training stations with 18 attachments into one convenient machine, allowing you to perform over 375 exercise moves. The basic machine includes eight strength training options: A power rack, functional trainer, low row attachment, multi-grip chin-up/pull-up station, dip station, suspension trainer, and Smith machine. One of the machine’s unique aspects is its interchangeable cable ratio system, which allows you to easily switch between a pulley ratio of 2:1 to 4:1. This makes the equipment more accessible to users of different levels. The G10’s Smith machine fixed barbell is compatible with Olympic weight plates and can support up to 772 pounds. Smith machine features include commercial-grade guide rails, linear bearings, reinforced bushings, and 14 racking levels. This Smith machine is a great strength-building option when you don’t have a spotter since it comes with an adjustable spring-loaded safety, safe lock and release mechanisms, and a safety catch. In addition to the eight initial stations, Force USA offers many upgrades, including benches, bars, bumpers, and more strength training stations. Best Budget Smith Machine: Sunny Health and Fitness Smith Machine Squat Rack Essential Series Sunny Health and Fitness Premium Smith Machine & Squat Cage Footprint: 74.3 inches W x 88.6 inches H x 43.1 inches D Who Should and Shouldn’t Buy: Best for beginner and intermediate lifters on a budget and those with standard plates; advanced lifters may want a more heavy-duty machine Price: $700 Check Price Pros: Great value for an affordable price Easy self-assembly Compatible with a wide range of Sunny Health and Fitness accessories Cons: Short warranty Only comes with basic attachments Sunny Health and Fitness is known for its budget-friendly workout equipment, and at only $699.99, this unit is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable Smith machine. This equipment offers the basics to achieve moves like squats, bench presses (weight bench not included), and pull-ups. The Smith machine Squat Rack Essential Series has a multi-grip pull-up bar, a 15-pound barbell with safety clips, and weight plate storage. The machine also features 21 adjustable height settings. This Smith unit allows you to move the barbell in a smooth vertical direction. Spotter blocks help ensure a safer experience, and you can bolt the machine to the floor for extra stability. If you upgrade to heavier weights, remember the squat bar is compatible with one-inch diameter weight plates only. While this Smith machine comes with limited attachments, you can use it with various Sunny Health and Fitness upgrades to customize your workout needs. For example, resistance band handles allow you to incorporate resistance training into your routine. With your own weight bench, you can perform shoulder and bench presses. Best 2:1 Pulley Ratio Smith Machine: Force USA G3 All-in-One Trainer Force USA G3 4.0 Footprint: 40.5 inches W x 79 inches H x 49.5 inches D Who Should and Shouldn’t Buy: Great for those with limited workout space who want an all-in-one machine for a more affordable price than the G10; if you want lots of upgrades but have a limited budget, this may not be the right machine for you Price: $2,000 Check Price Pros: More affordable than the G10 Highly customizable for a full-body workout Space-saving Cons: Upgrades can be expensive Not recommended for people over 7’1” The Force USA G3 is a versatile entry-level Smith machine trainer. Like the G10, it combines multiple gym machines into one, making it a convenient space-saving option. Force USA updated the Gen 2 of the G3 for 2024, so you get a solid, up-to-date machine that can support up to 11 strength training stations. The G3 has a power rack, functional trainer, chinup station, suspension trainer station, landmine core trainer, and Smith machine. The Smith machine has a knurled barbell with a weight capacity of up to 772 pounds of Olympic weight plates to perform exercises like presses and deadlifts. It has a 2:1 ratio, so you lift half of your loaded resistance with the G3 rather than the exact resistance. For example, if you load