Introduction
Recently, Rogue dropped their response to the REP ARES with a number of rack-attached options that will add a functional trainer-like setup at the front and lat pulldown/low row to the back of your rack.
In general, they seem to be an excellent add-on for those in the Rogue ecosystem & who have been waiting on a product like this.
The prices are pretty similar to what REP offers with everything but the pulleys being “Made in the USA.”
These options can be added in several different variables, highlighted below:
- Monster or Monster Lite – These are only available for 5/8” and 1” holes.
- Standalone 6-Post Power Rack, Standalone 4-Post Half Rack, or Add-On to Rack – Rogue has pre-packeded options for both rack styles mentioned and then add-ons for those already with these types of racks.
- One or Two Stacks (twins) – While both options utilize a 2:1 pulley ratio for the functional trainer and 1:1 for the lat pulldown, the number of stacks will definitely change up the experience. Single stacks may limit cable length, more difficult to even up weight distribution because of an uneven center point, and there is more potential for uneven force to be applied when performing bilateral movements. Two stacks includes a higher price, but a better experience.
- Rogue Rhino Drop In – This will integrate into your rack and allow for lat pulldowns (no functional trainer).
Current options are below:
| Title | Rack Style | # of Stacks | M or ML? |
| Rogue FM-6 Functional Trainer | 6 Post Power Rack | 1 | Monster |
| Rogue FM-HR Functional Trainer | 4 Post Half Rack | 1 | Monster |
| Rogue FM-6 Twin Functional Trainer | 6 Post Power Rack | 2 | Monster |
| Rogue FM-HR Twin Functional Trainer | 4 Post Half Rack | 2 | Monster |
| Rogue FM-6 Functional Trainer – Add On | Add-On | 1 | Monster |
| Rogue FM-6 Twin Functional Trainer – Add on | Add-On | 2 | Monster |
| Rogue Monster Rhino Rack Trainer – Drop In | Add-On | n/a | Monster |
| Rogue FML-6 Functional Trainer | 6 Post Power Rack | 1 | Monster Lite |
| Rogue FML-HR Functional Trainer | 4 Post Half Rack | 1 | Monster Lite |
| Rogue FML-HR Functional Trainer – Add on | Add-On | 1 | Monster Lite |
| Rogue FML-6 Functional Trainer Add-On | 6 Post Power Rack | 1 | Monster Lite |
Roundtable Feedback
Within one of the HomeGymCon Roundtables, the top of the “Rogue Functional Trainers vs. REP Ares 2.0 vs. Other Pulley Systems at HomeGymCon” came up.,
In general, most were very impressed with the Rogue “single stack” functional trainer attachment.
It is important to note that the “twin” versions were not there but most felt that it was definitely worth the extra cost to purchase. In addition, they were just prototype options at HomeGymCon.
Nevertheless, some did express some concern with the Rogue single stack functional trainer due to cable travel issues and adjustment difficulties (two hands necessary).
Most felt the REP Ares 2.0 was the best all-in-one cable unit, but they acknowledged compelling alternatives from Vesta Fitness and Force USA.
Community Voting – Ares 2.0 vs. Rogue Functional Trainers
Lastly, we asked the community to see if they’d rather have the ARES 2.0 from REP or one of the new Rogue Mounted FT’s.
With 38% of the votes, REP received about 47% more votes than the Rogue option.
About 35% need more info.
It will be interesting to see if this shifts as more “official reviews” start to come out.
