Top-Tier Equipment for Functional Training: Strengthen and Improve Yourself
Functional training is a popular fitness approach that mimics everyday movements to build strength, mobility, and stability. This style of training can be done with a variety of equipment, as we'll explore in this article.
Essential Equipment
Functional Training Rig
A versatile base with anchor points for pull-up bars, resistance bands, suspension trainers, and various attachments, a functional training rig serves as the foundation of your setup.
Kettlebells & Dumbbells
Ergonomically designed and available in a range of weights, kettlebells and dumbbells are essential for strength and endurance training. They allow for multiple movement variations like swings, presses, and carries.
Macebells (Steel Maces)
These unique training tools are effective for rotational strength and shoulder conditioning. Macebells, or steel maces, are available from specialty suppliers.
Medicine Balls / Slam Balls
Useful for dynamic, power, and full-body explosive movements, medicine balls and slam balls are ideal for throws and slams.
Bulgarian-style Bags
While not explicitly listed, Bulgarian-style bags can be incorporated for weighted carries and rotational movements, complementing functional training equipment.
Balance Trainers
Typically including tools like BOSU balls or balance boards, balance trainers enhance stability and proprioception, making them a valuable addition to your setup.
Pull-up Bars
Crucial for upper body and core strength exercises, pull-up bars are often integrated into functional rigs or available as standalone units.
Jump Ropes
Lightweight and portable, jump ropes are invaluable for cardio conditioning, agility, and coordination.
Weighted Vests
Used to increase resistance during bodyweight exercises or cardio, weighted vests enable progressive overload and fit well with functional training principles.
Resistance Bands
Versatile for strength training, warm-ups, rehab, and mobility work, resistance bands include loop bands, tube bands, and hip circles with various resistance levels.
Additional Equipment
Cardio Equipment
While not strictly necessary for minimal functional training gear, additional cardio equipment such as treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and rowing machines can provide comprehensive cardiovascular training.
Functional Training Tools
The Rogue Echo Bike V3.0, an assault bike that provides a full-body workout, is known for its durability and ability to track workouts. The Elite Jumps Muay Thai 3.0 Heavy Jump Rope, a weighted jump rope, builds muscular endurance along with cardio and agility, making it a great choice for functional fitness programs.
The Concept 2 SkiERG operates in a similar way to the rowing machine, but uses ski poles and provides a full-body workout that is both strength- and cardio-intensive. The Hydrocore Bag, a functional workout tool that uses water instead of sand and wool for weight, is portable and easy to empty out for travel.
The BOSU Sport Balance Trainer and the AssaultRunner Pro offer additional balance and cardio challenges, respectively. The BOSU Sport Balance Trainer can be used for squats or lunges to add a significant yet manageable balance challenge, while the AssaultRunner Pro provides a more natural and focused experience by having no set speed.
The Concept 2 RowERG is an indoor rowing machine that provides real-time performance data, can link with various fitness apps via Bluetooth, and has adjustable resistance. The REP Fitness Wall Mounted Pullup Bar and the ProsourceFit Multi-Grip Chin-Up/Pull-Up Bar offer stable and durable pull-up options, while the REP Fitness Slam Balls come in a full range of weights and are designed to be durable with just the right amount of grip.
Conclusion
Together, these tools support multi-planar movement, core engagement, strength, mobility, and cardiovascular fitness integral to functional training. Embrace the benefits of functional training by incorporating these equipment into your home gym setup.
- A functional training rig, with anchor points for various equipment like pull-up bars, resistance bands, suspension trainers, and attachments, serves as the foundation for functional training workouts, allowing for diverse movements that mimic everyday activities.
- Kettlebells and dumbbells, available in different weights and ergonomically designed, are essential for strength and endurance training, offering multiple movement variations such as swings, presses, and carries.
- Consider adding Macebells (steel maces) to your gear, as they provide rotational strength and shoulder conditioning benefits, suitable for functional fitness and rehabilitation exercises.
- Functional training also benefits from equipment like Bulgarian-style bags, which can be incorporated for weighted carries and rotational movements, complementing the primary functional training tools.
