Investing in fitness equipment and setting up a home gym is an excellent option for people who like to exercise, without the hassle and expense of a gym membership.
However, the challenge when going in this direction is choosing equipment that is right for you.
And while the choices are many, a true functional trainer cable machine should be at the top of your list because of its ability to provide an incredible variety of workouts.
And if you're looking for a reputable brand, the Xmark functional trainer stands out as one of the best on the market.
- XMARK XM-7626 Functional Trainer Cable Machine Review
- Benefits in Investing in a Quality Functional Trainer
- Downsides of the XMark Functional Trainer
- Why Choose the XMark Functional Trainer Brand?
- Xmark Functional Trainer Exercises To Try
- Comparing the XM-7626 with Similar Functional Trainers
- Common XMark Functional Trainer Questions
- Conclusion - Is It Worth It?
XMARK XM-7626 Functional Trainer Cable Machine Review
Our Ratings
Workout Versatility
9.5
Value For Money
9.0
Ease Of Use
10.0
Ease Of Assembly
8.0
Materials & Durability
9.5
Overall Rating
9.2
Product Specifications
Material | Steel Mainframe Construction |
Dimension | 43.5″L x 65″W x 84″H (110.5L x 165W x 213.3H cm) |
Adjustment Range | 19 adjustment slots spaced at 3.5" apart. The lowest setting is 1'0, - highest setting is 6'6" |
Range of Cables | Cables will extend 81" from pulleys. |
Stacks | 2x 200 lbs (90.7 kg) |
The Xmark 7626 functional trainer cable machine is not just your ordinary training equipment.
It combines quality, versatility, and affordability, descriptions that you tend to associate with more expensive gym equipment.
The features and benefits of this equipment really help it to stand out among its competitors.
First and foremost, we love the sturdy and reliable frame. Not only does it come with anti-corrosion and anti-scratch properties, but it is heavy duty and will put up with a real beating.
The quality of the steel used in this machine means that it can be used for many years to come. And should you have any issues, you can always fall back on the lifetime warranty.
The high-quality pull-up rig, quick-adjustment pulley, and pull pin mechanism to change weight effortlessly all work together to ensure you will have a smooth workout.
These parts of the equipment will help you do isolateral-based exercise efficiently and provide several exercise options for targeting the muscle and isolation exercises.
The 200-pound dual weight stack system and the different accessories included of a wealth of opportunities and possibilities to the user during the workout.
The two weight stacks can be used independently too which is something a lot of home gyms don't offer. This lets two people use the functional trainer at the same time so it's great if you've got a gym buddy nearby.
We were impressed with the interchangeable accessories that come included in the kit, as it increases the range of exercise you can perform from this single piece of equipment.
These attachments include a pair of hand straps and long strap handles, a 42-inch long bar and a short bar, a 23-inch tricep rope. There are also some attachment for leg exercises, like an ankle strap, a leg extension strap, and a leg curl strap.
These accessories with this functional trainer cable machine will allow you to perform exercises which are more challenging and fun at the same time.
The downsides of the Xmark cable machine? In terms of its assembly, all we can say is you need to bring your patience and determination, as this part can really test you.
Putting together this functional trainer cable machine takes a while, and to be honest, the manual left a lot to be desired. Our top tip is to enlist the help of a friend! In this case, two heads are better than one!
If you encounter confusion or difficulty during the assembly, you can always give a quick call to Xmark's customer service center, who are delightful and will be more than happy to help.
Pros
Cons
Benefits in Investing in a Quality Functional Trainer
A functional trainer is a piece of fitness equipment made up of weight stacks, cables, and adjustable pulleys that brings distinct benefits to its users.
They usually come with a range of accessories, bars (short bar and long bar at least), hand straps, ankle strap, and other extras to help you do a wide variety of exercises.
For us, versatility and effectiveness are the two words that best describe high-quality cable crossover machines.
A functional trainer cable machine is also incredibly safe for functional resistance training enthusiasts. And we don't just mean by avoiding dropping the free weights or weight plates on your foot.
While the cables and the weight stacks protect the user from harm during the workout, its cable system allows you to take on heavier exercises without a spotter - making functional trainers the perfect choice for those looking to lift actual weight and gain muscle.
Downsides of the XMark Functional Trainer
Honestly speaking, we don't have a lot of negatives to say about the Xmark functional trainer cable machine. One of the few downsides is the difficulty in assembling the equipment.
The poorly written manual doesn't help matters, but as long as you allow yourself plenty of time, you'll get there in the end.
Why Choose the XMark Functional Trainer Brand?
Xmark is a household name within the fitness industry.
The company has been serving its loyal customers for more than 20 years, offering high-quality products and all the tools you need to get in shape, so it should be no surprise that the Xmark is one of the best cable machines on the market.
Heavy Duty and Solid Mainframe
The Xmark commercial functional trainer cable machine is made with durable materials, and the machine's quality can be seen in its sturdily-built and reliable steel mainframe, composed of a scratch-resistant and corrosion-free 11-gauge 2" x 3" steel body.
The heavy-duty and stable mainframe is paired with a super smooth pulley and pull-up rig to make an easy to use functional trainer machine.
Suitable For Beginners And Pros
Versatility is one of the key features of the Xmark functional trainer cable machine.
This home gym equipment can be used by anyone in your home regardless of age or height and makes a perfect introduction to actual resistance training.
The dual weight stacks make this cable machine suitable for experienced lifters too because there's enough weight to seriously challenge you.
This home gym equipment is also incredibly user-friendly and can be used by old or young fitness buffs alike.
Unlimited Training Possibilities
The Xmark functional trainer cable machine assembly was designed to provide unlimited training possibilities to its user. It offers countless exercises when it comes to muscle targeting and isolation.
The Xmark functional trainer cable machine also comes with exchangeable accessories, a dual weight stacks of 200 lbs, and a 19-setting 'quick adjustable' pulley system, which provides flexibility in how you incorporate different exercise options into your home exercise routine.
There's even an option for pull ups with a split pull up bar attached to the top of the home gym.
It also means you can exercise at the best time for you instead of when the gym is open.
Space-Saving Design
This Xmark functional trainer cable machine also takes extreme pride in its space-saving design.
Its dimensions and sizes are designed to fit within small spaces, making it perfect for home gyms.
If you don't have the biggest of areas for your home gym, the Xmark cable machine fits the bill.
Brand Reliability
We are a massive fan of the Xmark brand.
It has been in the industry for so many years and has proven to provide high-quality and affordable equipment for home gyms - and the Xmark functional trainer is no exception.
The brand is a household name and is a trusted choice of many gym-goers around the world.
Exceptional Warranty
Many people tend to neglect the importance of warranty when purchasing a product, but this is also an essential part of your retail experience - especially if you're buying an expensive cable machine for your home gym.
It will serve as your protection when you encounter a problem or a product malfunction.
For the Xmark functional trainer cable machine, you get a lifetime in home warranty for the frame and one year warranty for the other parts.[1] This is much longer than many functional trainers offer.
Excellence and Quality
All Xmark home gym equipment offers an innovative design where every detail and craftsmanship serves to ensure a smooth and effective workout.
The functional trainer machine is no exception, as its quality and excellence will stand out as one of your most useful (and favorite) additions to your home gym.
Xmark Functional Trainer Exercises To Try
There are a lot of exercises you can do with the Xmark functional trainer cable machine. And saying a lot is an understatement, as we are talking about more than a hundred.
These exercises can work on many different muscle groups in the body, with a range of upper and lower body exercises which allow you to target key areas.
For many people, including beginners, typical exercises will include chest press, cable crossovers, overhead tricep extensions, and bicep curls. But the versatility of this machine unlocks a whole host of different movements.[2]
For example, smash out a plank tricep kickback with the triceps rope to improve your core, legs, and triceps, or opt for some lower body training with a cable reverse lunge to improve balance and strength.
The side plank cable row is another exercise that can help in improving your core and shoulders while the cable front squat engages the hamstring and quads.
Pull ups are regarded as one of the best exercises you can do and this functional trainer has a pull up bar included. Just make sure you have enough clearance space about the pull up bar so you can do them safely.
Other notable exercises that you can do with a functional trainer includes the single-arm row, cable crossovers, bridge curl, cable crunch, and a whole lot more.
Check out the workout poster included with the cable machine to see how you can make best use of the ankle strap, short bar, long bar, tricep rope, hand straps, and adjustable pulleys to get a great workout.
Comparing the XM-7626 with Similar Functional Trainers
XMark Functional Trainer Vs Body-Solid Powerline PFT100
If maximum weight is your concern, the Xmark functional trainer contains much heavier stacks.
The Powerline PFT 100 includes a pair of 160-pound stacks while the Xmark brand has a two weight stacks of 200-pounds.
Although both cable machines have similar heights and both have pull up bars on top, the Xmark functional trainer is wider and bigger, although the difference is not too drastic.
The great thing about Powerline PFT 100 is its adjustable cable pulleys, which provide added versatility to the user during the workout.
XMark Functional Trainer Vs Rogue CT – 1
The Rouge Fitness Cable Tower CT - 1 is a single stack design.
Unlike the Xmark that features dual weight stacks of 200-pound, this machine has a single 250-pound and a single handle pulley assembly with 16 different height-adjustment settings.
The CT-1 is ideal, therefore, if you are dealing with smaller spaces, but it does lack some attachments like a pull up bar.
Furthermore, the Rogue CT - 1 has a pulley system with a 2:1 ratio, which is good for doing different cable exercises.
It also features a 180-degree swivel, which can be easily adjusted using its stainless steel adjustment handle.
Common XMark Functional Trainer Questions
What are some safety considerations for beginners?
For newbies, it's essential to learn how to use the machine properly. Take some time to understand how it works, and perhaps watch a few YouTube videos.
Once you get the hang of it, it's pretty straightforward; just make sure not to go too hard too soon, or you could risk injury.
You can also check out some of our top tips for beginners.
What are some safety considerations for experienced gym-goers?
Experienced gym-goers shouldn't have any issue using the Xmark. After all, it's more or less similar to the machines you would find in a typical gym.
Ensure to follow the standard safety protocols, including ensuring the stack is locked correctly before lifting.
How can one prevent injury when using functional trainers?
To prevent injury while using functional trainers, a warm-up is essential to prepare your body. Practicing good form is also a great way to avoid any unnecessary injury.
Stretching after your workout is equally as important as stretching before.
Is the XMark XM-7626 easy to assemble?
It depends on how handy you are with DIY. We found the assembly a little tricky, and a lot of users felt the same.
In addition, the instruction manual is sometimes challenging to follow. On a positive note, you can always contact the customer service for assistance if you need extra help.
How should one maintain this exercise equipment?
Taking care of your home gym equipment is necessary to increase its longevity and increase your safety.
Ensure to consult the details in the maintenance manual to determine how to care for your machine.
As a general rule, you can apply silicone lubricant to the weight stacks to maintain its smooth operation. The lubricant can also be applied when the cable pulleys begin to produce squeaky sounds.
Conclusion - Is It Worth It?
There is no doubt that the Xmark functional trainer is a 'top-of-the-range' piece of gym equipment.
Made with high-quality materials and with its vast list of features and the major benefits we discussed, it will help you achieve your desired fitness goals and aspirations, all from the comfort of your own home.
Our Ratings
Workout Versatility
9.5
Value For Money
9.0
Ease Of Use
10.0
Ease Of Assembly
8.0
Materials & Durability
9.5
Overall Rating
9.2
References:
1. https://www.xmarkfitness.com/warranties/
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/functional-strength-training
Last Updated on September 12, 2024