Comparison
Inspire Fitness FT1 vs M5: Comparison Guide
The Functional Trainer vs. The Ultimate L-Shaped Hybrid. Which one fits your life?
1/14/2025•Editorial Team
If you have the budget and the space, you are likely deciding between the best-selling FT1 and the massive M5. One offers pure unrestricted freedom; the other offers the ability for two people to train at once with a mix of fixed and free movements.
The Core Difference
**The FT1** is a pure functional trainer. It has no fixed press arm. Every exercise is cable-based, requiring you to stabilise the path. It is relatively compact and fits in a single corner.
**The M5** is a hybrid behemoth. It combines a fixed-path multi-gym (like the M3) with a functional pulley station. It has **two** weight stacks, meaning two people can train simultaneously. However, it requires a significantly larger 'L-shaped' footprint.
Choose the FT1 if...
- You train solo.
- You want sport-specific functionality (golf, tennis swings).
- You prefer the freedom of cables over fixed pressing.
- You have a standard room corner available.
Choose the M5 if...
- You train with a partner (Dual stacks allow simultaneous use).
- You want the safety and isolation of a fixed press arm.
- You specifically want a seated leg curl station (FT1 requires an ankle cuff).
- You have a large dedicated room with a big corner space.
The Verdict
If you have the space and a training partner, the **M5** is the ultimate home gym centerpiece. But for a single user focused on athletic movement, the **FT1** offers 95% of the functionality for a smaller footprint and lower price.