Cable Crossover Machine Purchasing Facts and Tips

Read This Information Before Buying a Cable Crossover Machine

This is the internet age. So purchasing an Adjustable Cable Crossover for your facility should be an easy mission. A few “clicks” on the web and you’re onto the next task. “Au contraire!” While there are lots of models available, there is a surprising shortage of good and relevant information about Cable Crossover machines. Read on for the secrets to becoming a savvy and educated consumer.

Why the Popularity?

Don’t let this big machine fool you. While the Cable Crossover has a huge footprint and is rather intimidating, it’s deceptively easy to use. A few of the reasons for the mass appeal are:

• It does a lot. The crossover machine is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment in the gym and can be used to train many different muscle groups.
• An Adjustable Cable Crossover can attack muscles from multiple angles and directions for tremendous exercise variety.
• The Cable cross machine gives you the “best of both worlds.” It’s a sort of hybrid that provides some of the movement freedom associated with free weights while using selectorized weight stacks and cables instead of following the fixed movement path of many strength machines.
• Allows working the body unilaterally even in a bilateral movement. This method can be useful when you want to train each side independently.
• A Cable Crossover’s functionality can be enhanced as simply as changing cable handles and attachments.

What You Need to Know

Whether you’ve looked at 1 or 100 crossover machines, it becomes obvious that only basic information is often provided. Typically this is all that is stated:

1. Swivel pulleys and their range of movement
2. Weight stack size
3. Overall dimensions of the crossover machine

While this is important information, so much more disclosure is needed to become educated.

Cable Crossover Pulley and Handle

Essentials to Know Before Buying

There is an old adage about the importance of the particulars that says “the devil is in the details.” This is true in purchasing an Adjustable Cable Crossover as small details can make a good purchase become an exceptional choice. While I wouldn’t call these “secrets,” you’ll have to do your homework and learn what these critical facts are.

Weight Stack Configuration and Pulley Ratio

All companies will tell you the size of the weight stack. But the reduction factor is essential. Depending on the cable geometry and pulley system, the resistance available at the handle can be different from the total weight listed on the stack. For example, a nominal 2:1 system with a 150 lb. weight stack provides approximately half the selected stack weight at the handle, while a nominal 4:1 system with a 300 lb. stack provides approximately one-quarter of the selected stack weight at the handle. Actual resistance can vary somewhat according to the machine’s design and mechanical characteristics.

This is why you need to look beyond the size of the weight stack. Compare the stack size and the machine’s pulley or reduction ratio so you understand the usable resistance range at the handle. A heavier stack is not automatically the better choice, and a higher reduction ratio is not automatically a disadvantage. The right configuration depends on the exercises, users and training environment.

Adjustability

The heart of functionality on the cable machine is the ability to work muscles from different angles. Crossovers that have an adjustable pulley increase the training variety and training options. All adjustments need to be easy to perform and quick to accomplish. Look at the number of pulley positions, the usable adjustment range, the spacing between positions and whether the pulley can move from low to overhead starting positions.

Legend Fitness 1131 SelectEDGE Cable Crossover Machine

Features and Options

In a commercial setting, the Cable cross will be a major stopping point for your members. Shrouds that shield the weight stack are a recommended feature. Also, a “ballet” bar or handle to stabilize users doing thigh work is a nice element. Depending on the model, the Crossover may also have a chin station on the center cross-member with multiple hand positions.

Cable attachments with the Adjustable Cable Crossover are a necessity for keeping training “fresh” and exciting. As you well know, gym members always want “more.” A large selection of cable attachments on the crossover machine can provide an almost endless list of training diversity.

SportsArt N971 Selectorized Adjustable Cable Crossover

The Next Step

Now you know what to look for and what you’re doing. Team up with IRON COMPANY when you’re ready for adding a Cable Crossover to your facility. With a vast selection and expertise, we’re solution makers and not order takers.

About the Author: John Sisk

John Sisk is a former US Marine and is passionate about helping others achieve success in the arena of fitness. As a fitness industry veteran of over 40-years, John has the experience, product knowledge, and perspective that are second to none. John was founder and president of Legend Fitness for 29 years before teaming up with IRON COMPANY in 2006. With over 147 manufacturing partners, John has the right tools, experience, and expertise to ensure you get the best products for your fitness application, whether it is for military, commercial, or personal use. This is more than a job; it is a lifetime commitment to helping people. When not at IRON COMPANY, John can be found leading a Bible Study in the inner city or hiking the Appalachian Trail. Contact John here.