Body Solid GFT100 Functional Trainer Review
The Body Solid GFT100 is a traditional standalone functional trainer that focuses on smooth cable performance rather than trying to combine multiple machines into one frame, making it best for home gym owners who want a dedicated, reliable training station separate from their rack.
Quick Specs
Price (GFT100 Functional Trainer): $2,315
Price (GLEG Leg Extension/Curl Bench): $665
Height: 83”
Width (Frame): 64”
Cable Upright Spacing (Center to Center): ~53”
Weight Stack Per Side (Default): 160 lbs
Weight Stack Upgrades Available: 210 lbs, 300/310 lbs
Pulley Ratio: 2:1
Effective Weight Per Side (Default): 80 lbs max
Weight Increments: 10 lb plates (5 lb felt increments due to 2:1 ratio)
Pulleys: Aluminum
Trolley Adjustment: Pop pin with plastic sleeve on uprights
Pull-Up Bar: Multi-grip angled bar
Built-In Storage: Yes
Shrouds: Optional
Warranty: Lifetime (structural parts, bushings, pads, cables, grips)
Ordering: Through authorized dealers
Where To Buy
Check price through body Solid below. Use code "JUNGLEGYM" for 20% off:
My Real-World Experience
The first thing that stood out to me when using the GFT100 was the cable feel. This is one of the smoothest cable systems I’ve used, easily comparable to some of the better high-end machines. The pulleys glide well, the cables track cleanly, and the overall movement feels fast and responsive.
The layout is exactly what you expect from a dedicated functional trainer. The uprights sit about 53 inches apart from cable to cable, which is noticeably wider than rack-integrated functional trainer setups. That extra spacing makes movements like cable flyes feel more natural because you’re not limited by rack width.
The height is 83 inches, which makes it compatible with most basement ceilings. That’s one of the reasons standalone functional trainers remain popular despite the rise of rack-integrated cable systems—they fit in more spaces without needing a full rack footprint.
Training Use Cases
A dedicated functional trainer shines in day-to-day training because it’s always ready to go. You don’t need to move barbells, attachments, or lever arms out of the way. Adjust the trolley height, grab a handle, and start training.
The 2:1 pulley ratio also makes the weight increments feel smaller, which is ideal for accessory exercises. Because each plate on the stack is 10 pounds but the ratio halves the load, the effective jumps feel closer to five pounds. That makes it easier to progress movements like lateral raises, curls, triceps pushdowns, and other smaller muscle group exercises.
The multi-grip pull-up bar and built-in storage add to the usability. Everything you need for cable training stays organized on the machine, which keeps the workflow simple.
Tradeoffs & Limitations
Like most functional trainers with a 2:1 pulley ratio, the biggest limitation is heavy single-arm movements. With the default 160-pound stack, the effective resistance per side tops out around 80 pounds.
That’s enough for most accessory work, but heavier exercises like lat pulldowns, rows, or belt squats will likely require other equipment. Some users solve this by adding external plates using weight-stack adder pins, which increases the maximum load without upgrading the stack itself.
The trolley adjustment system is another small quirk. The sleeve that slides on the upright is manufactured with tight tolerances, which keeps the system stable but can make the trolley harder to move initially. Adding a small amount of lubricant to the guide surfaces dramatically improves the adjustment feel.
Value & Alternatives
At around $2,300, the GFT100 sits right in the typical price range for standalone functional trainers. What differentiates it is the cable performance and the lifetime warranty coverage across structural and wear components.
Compared with rack-integrated cable systems, the main advantage is simplicity. Dedicated functional trainers are easier to use in multi-person gyms and don’t require reconfiguring rack attachments between exercises.
Who Should Buy This
Home gym owners who want extremely smooth cables, a wider pulling stance than rack-based trainers, or a dedicated cable station separate from their rack.
Who Should Skip It
Lifters who want heavy lat pulldown or rowing capacity from their cable system or those who prefer an all-in-one rack that combines barbells and cables into a single footprint.
Common Questions
Can I do heavy lat pulldowns on the GFT100?
With the default 160-pound weight stacks and a 2:1 pulley ratio, the maximum effective resistance is 80 pounds per side. This is usually not enough for heavy lat pulldowns, though you can upgrade the weight stacks or use adder pins to increase the resistance.
Is the 53-inch width enough for cable flyes?
Yes, the 53-inch spacing between the uprights provides a noticeably wider pulling stance than most rack-integrated systems, making cable flyes feel natural without limiting your range of motion.
Will this functional trainer fit in a basement gym?
At 83 inches tall, the GFT100 is designed to fit under most standard basement ceilings, which is a major advantage over taller all-in-one racks.
Final Verdict
The Body Solid GFT100 is a straightforward, well-executed functional trainer focused on the fundamentals: smooth cables, a stable frame, and simple usability. If you value cable feel and reliability over flashy features, it’s a reliable option in the standalone functional trainer category.
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