Functional training has become hugely popular in recent years as people look to improve their overall fitness beyond isolated muscle groups. Relying solely on machines often neglects the core stabilizer muscles that are crucial for activities of daily living. The best functional gear goes beyond standard weightlifting by engaging your entire body in natural, compound movements.
In this article, we’ll share our top 6 picks for must-have functional training equipment perfect for any home gym. These versatile tools allow you to simulate realistic physical challenges and strengthen your entire kinetic chain. Whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior or simply want to feel confident moving furniture, these multi-tasking products deliver well-rounded results.
Top 6 Functional Training Products for the Home Gym
.1. Yes4All Workout Sand Bags for Weight
This sandbag from Yes4All is a good, budget-friendly option for home gym functional training. While not the most heavy-duty product on the market, it provides versatility and value given its multi-bag design that allows for adjusting the weight loadout.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Comes with multiple inner sand-filled bags for customizable weight
- Durable materials and stitching withstand regular use
- Variety of grip positions supports different exercises
Cons
- Heavier loads can cause some sand leakage from inner bags
- Handles may be less than optimal for certain larger-framed users
- Maximum weight capacities may be overstated depending on bag size
Potential Improvements
- Reinforce inner bag sealing to prevent sand leakage
- Offer supplemental handle pads or shorten handles on some models
- Better educate on proper filling levels to match listed weight ranges
Who Should Use
- Beginners looking for an affordable first sandbag
- Casual home gym users on a budget
- Those wanting to experiment with sandbag training
Who Should Not Use
- Individuals expecting to do strict competitive-style training
- Users looking to consistently load near the upper weight limits
- Larger bodybuilders seeking a very heavy-duty product
In summary, for the affordable price the Yes4All sandbag provides a suitable introductory training tool. Just be aware of potential leakage and handle comfort issues at higher loads for some users.
2. SKLZ Super Sandbag Heavy Duty Training Weight Bag
Overall, it provides a sturdy and versatile training tool for functional exercises. The materials have held up well to regular use, with some room for improvement.
Pros
- Durable outer shell and handles withstand heavy lifts
- Multiple grip positions allow for a variety of exercises
- Adjustable weight through removable inner bags
- Compact design makes it portable
Cons
- Inner bags can be stiff and uncomfortable when loaded fully
- Seams on the handles showed early signs of tearing on my unit
- Sand does leak out over time if not adequately sealed
Potential Improvements
- Reinforce stress points like handle seams
- Include bags or containers to hold filler material inside
- Reduce stiffness of inner bags for easy adjustment
Who Should Use
- Home/garage gym users seeking a versatile training aid
- Those performing metabolic conditioning or lifting circuits
- Beginners or casual users on a budget
Who Should Not Use
- Serious strength athletes looking for a heavy-duty implement
- Those expecting minimal leakage or bag movement over time
- Users weighing or throwing the bag for high-intensity work
In summary, while not the most rugged option, it provides good value for lighter functional training if sand leakage and bag comfort issues can be addressed. With some enhancements, this product could better suit more demanding needs.
3. Shogun Sports Training Sandbag
I recently purchased and tested the 100 lb size Shogun Warrior Gorilla sandbag from Amazon. Here are my thoughts on the product based on several weeks of regular use:
Pros
- Very sturdy construction – the materials and stitching have held up well to regular high-intensity training
- Multiple grab points allow for a variety of exercises to be performed
- Hefty weight for its compact size – I was able to fit close to 100 lbs of filler material
Cons
- The opening for filling is a bit narrow, making packing the bag more difficult
- Over longer term use (months/years), seams or materials may rip or tear from high impacts
Potential Improvements
- Wider opening for easier filling
- Reinforced seams and materials in high-stress areas
Who Should Use
- Those wanting a heavy-duty sandbag for functional training
- Gyms and individuals looking for a lower-cost alternative to brands
- Users primarily doing exercises without major bag impacts
Who Shouldn’t Use
- Those expecting years of abuse without any wear and tear showing
- Those seeking the absolute heaviest bags available
- Users primarily doing high-impact drills like overhead slams
In summary, for the price it has proven highly durable in my testing. With enhanced filling access and puncture-resistance, it could become an excellent budget-friendly option for demanding trainers.
4. Power Ball Gyro Ball Forearm Exerciser
I recently purchased the Exaco Gyro Exercise Ball to test its effectiveness as a workout tool. After using it regularly for a few weeks, here are my thoughts:
Pros
- Provides an excellent forearm and grip strength workout once you learn the technique
- Fun and engaging way to train that doesn’t feel like a chore
- Well-built and sturdy construction
Cons
- Auto-start feature can be inconsistent – takes practice to wind it properly
- Size may be too large for some with smaller hands
- Inner ball can loosen over time, reducing effectiveness
Potential Improvements
- More textured inner surface for easier winding
- Slimmer profile to better fit all hand sizes
- Tighter assembly to prevent loosening of inner ball
Who Should Use
- Those wanting an effective hand/forearm trainer for strength or rehab
- Those seeking a novelty workout tool for fun diversionary training
- Individuals with larger hands able to grip the size comfortably
Who Shouldn’t Use
- People with small hands uncomfortable with the thickness
- Those solely relying on the auto-start versus manual winding
- Looking for a gadget without any assembly or maintenance needs
In summary, while not flawless, it proves highly effective when used properly and maintained well. For the right users focused on forearm development, it delivers impressive functional strength gains.
5. Trideer Extra Thick Yoga Ball Exercise Ball
I recently tested the Trideer Swiss Ball to evaluate its effectiveness for home workouts. Here are my key findings after regular use over the past month:
Pros
- Sturdy and durable construction – ball material maintains shape and thickness over time
- Large size range allows it to accommodate multiple users
- Versatile use for a variety of strengthening and stretching exercises
Cons
- Inflation can be time-consuming using only the manual pump provided
- Sizing challenges – larger balls may deflate more quickly
- Potential issues if roughhousing or misuse impacts the integrity of the material
Potential Improvements
- Include an electric pump to speed up the inflation process
- Reinforce seams and use puncture-resistant materials for heavier users
- Provide additional guidelines on sizing dependent on activity levels
Who Should Use
- Individuals looking for a versatile exercise tool suitable for multiple fitness levels
- Those seeking to improve balance, flexibility or general conditioning
- Physical therapists recommending Swiss ball training for rehabilitation
Who Shouldn’t Use
- People solely relying on the manual pump for inflation
- Users intending to regularly bounce or sit excessively on the ball
- Those participating in high-impact activities on the ball
Overall, for its affordable price, the Trideer Swiss Ball delivers effective home workouts. Durability may vary depending on usage, user weight and care taken to maintain proper inflation over time.