Inspire FT1 vs Inspire M5
The Ultimate Cable Machine vs The Ultimate Hybrid
Who Should Buy Which?
The **FT1** is pure functional purity: two stacks, zero fixed fixed paths. The **M5** is the 'greatest hits' compilation: it takes the functional cables of the FT1 and welds them onto a traditional multi-gym frame. Buy the M5 if you refuse to compromise between fixed pressing stability and cable versatility. Stick to the FT1 if you never use fixed press arms.
At A Glance
Space & Footprint
The M5 is an L-shaped beast. It demands a dedicated room corner and substantial clearance. It effectively has two workstations. The FT1 is comparatively sleek and unobtrusive.
FT1 Functional Trainer
- checkSingle workstation (front facing)
- checkCompact tapered footprints
- checkVisually lighter in the room
M5 Twin Stack Multi Gym
- checkL-Shaped footprint (needs a large corner)
- checkTwo distinct workout positions
- checkVisually dominant and wide
Training Experience
The **M5** gives you the 'best of both worlds'. You get a slightly condensed functional trainer side for cable work, PLUS a fixed press arm side for heavy chest/shoulder pressing and a leg extension station. It solves the FT1's main weakness (lack of heavy compound isolation) but loses some of the FT1's open freedom.
Inspire Fitness FT1 Functional Trainer
- The FT1 uses dual adjustable cable columns with more than 30 height positions, allowing training in virtually any direction or plane. The adjustment system is quick and simple, making it easy to move between exercises or run supersets without interruption. Resistance feels smooth and controlled, making it suitable for functional movements, sport-specific exercises, and higher-rep training.
Inspire Fitness M5 Twin Stack Multi Gym
- The M5 effectively merges a traditional multi-gym with a functional trainer. One side handles heavy pressing and leg work, while the other offers adjustable cable columns for functional movement. The fixed press arm has independent action for balanced strength development. The seated leg curl station is particularly smooth and ergonomic.
Build & Longevity
Both share the same DNA. 11-gauge tube steel, 2000lb tensile cables. The M5 is more complex with more moving parts, but Inspire's engineering is robust enough that this rarely causes maintenance issues.
Inspire Fitness FT1 Functional Trainer
Inspire Fitness M5 Twin Stack Multi Gym
Target Audience
Who fits each machine best?
Inspire Fitness FT1 Functional Trainer
- addWider cable crossover width
- addDedicated functional focus
- addLower price point
- addEasier straight-on placement
Inspire Fitness M5 Twin Stack Multi Gym
- addHybrid design (Cables + Fixed Press)
- addHeavier effective resistance on press arm
- addTwo people can train at once (carefully)
- addIncludes leg extension/curl
Value Proposition
The M5 is significantly more expensive. Only pay the premium if you absolutely need the fixed press arm AND cables in one unit. If you have space, an FT1 + a separate half rack is often a better setup for the same price.