Whether in the gym or at home, strength machines have long been an integral part of effective equipment training. They enable controlled movement sequences , targeted muscle activation, and safe training without extensive preparation or spotters. Strength machines are unbeatable, especially in rehabilitation, for older people, but also for structured muscle building.
But what strength machines are there ? Which ones are suitable for which training purpose — and which products from the ATLETICA range are recommended?
In this article, we give you an overview of the best categories, their respective advantages and concrete application possibilities – whether for your studio, your practice or your home gym.
1. Power Racks – The ultimate discipline for functional strength
Category : Power Racks at ATLETICA
A power rack — also known as a squat rack or cage — is the fundamental strength machine for free-range exercises . It allows you to safely and flexibly perform barbell exercises , such as squats. E.g. squats, bench presses, shoulder presses or deadlifts.
Advantages:
- Ideal for functional training with free weights
- Safety striving protects during solo training
- Modularly expandable (e.g. B. Dip bars, cable pulls, plate storage)
- Training with maximum freedom of movement
Suitable for whom ?
- Advanced & Athletes
- Powerlifters & Bodybuilders
- Studios & home gyms with a focus on free weights
2. Selectorized Machines – Comfort & Safety
Category : Multi-gyms & machines at ATLETICA
Strength machines with plug-in weights enable very safe, guided training of individual muscle groups – e.g. E.g., chest, back , legs, or shoulders. They are especially popular with beginners because the movement template minimizes the risk of injury .
Advantages:
- Easy weight adjustment through plug-in system
- No spotters needed
- Very good muscle isolation
- Ideal for beginners & rehab
Areas of application:
- Fitness studios & physiotherapy practices
- Hotel gyms & rehabilitation centers
- Premium home gyms with space requirements
Typical devices:
- Chest press
- Leg press
- Lat pulldown machine
- Leg flexors/extensors
- shoulder press
Tip : If you combine several of these devices in a circuit, you get an extremely effective whole-body workout – time-saving and structured.
3. Multigyms & power towers – versatility in the smallest of spaces
Category : Multigyms at ATLETICA
A multigym — also called a power tower — combines several strength training machines into one device . This saves space and costs without sacrificing training variety . They are the ideal solution for full -body training, especially in home gyms or hotel fitness areas.
Advantages:
- Full body workout with just one device
- Space-saving & compact
- Many exercises possible in a small area
- Easy to use
Possible functions :
- Lat pulldown
- rowing
- Chest press
- Leg extensors/flexors
- Cable pull
- Abdominal training (cable crunches)
Ideal for:
- Home Gym Beginners
- Hotels, rehabilitation facilities
- Senior training
- Budget-oriented studios
4. Cable machines – For functional movements & fine-tuning
Category : Cable pulls at ATLETICA
Cable machines are considered the gold standard for functional , controlled training. Unlike traditional machines , they allow for greater range of motion, require more core stability , and can be used for countless exercises .
Advantages:
- Freedom of movement & muscle coordination
- Adaptation to individual angles
- Perfect for core & shoulder training
- Many accessories possible (rope, pole, one-hand grip, etc.)
Application examples:
- Triceps press
- Face Pulls
- Cable Cross
- One-arm rowing
- Rotator training
5. Smith Machine & Multi-Press – Guided Barbell Exercises
Category : Multipress & Smith Machine at ATLETICA
The Smith Machine — also known as a multi-press — offers guided barbell training. The bar is attached to a rail, allowing maximum safety during exercises such as squats, bench presses , and shoulder presses.
Advantages:
- Safe execution without spotter
- Fixed plane of motion – ideal for rehabilitation or hypertrophy
- Also as a holder for additional tools (e.g. B. resistance bands ) can be used
- Usually equipped with safety stops
6. Accessories & Extensions – For your perfect strength setup
In addition to the main machines, there are many accessories that make your strength training more efficient and versatile:
|
Equipment |
function |
|
weight bench |
Adjustable for incline/flat bench presses |
|
Weight plates |
Cast iron, rubber or competition bumper plates |
|
Handles for cable pull |
For various pulling exercises |
|
Plyo Boxing & Step-Ups |
For leg exercises & warm-ups |
|
Dip bars, jammer arms |
Add-ons for power racks |
You can find all of these components in the ATLETICA accessories range – modularly combinable and ideal for professional setups.
Which strength machine is right for you?
Here is a decision-making aid based on goal, location & type of training:
|
Target group |
Recommendation |
|
beginner |
Multigym or guided strength machine |
|
Advanced |
Power rack + cable pull |
|
Rehabilitation / Seniors |
Guided power stations & Smith Machine |
|
Personal Trainer |
Combined systems + cable pull |
|
Studio / Hotel |
Power Rack, Selectorized Machines + Multigym |
|
Home Gym (small) |
Power tower or compact cable pulley |
Conclusion: The best strength machine? Depends on you
There isn't one single best strength training machine, but rather several categories – each with its own advantages. The key is to find the right one for your training goals, your available space, and your level.
With ATLETICA's modular equipment concept, you'll find the right solution for every need — from a compact home gym to a fully equipped studio.
Discover now at ATLETICA:
- Power Racks & Cages
- Power stations & multigyms
- Cable pulls & functional towers
- Multipresses & Smith Machines
- Accessories & Extensions
