The New REP ARES 2.0 Functional Trainer Rack Review!

[@steveoake2901]

I was talking to REP, and they are working on a leg extension attachment for the blackwing that will attach to a cable machine or allow plate loading. They are trying to get the curve just right before releasing it.

[@grantliu9185]

now THATS what im talking about. Ritfit has a nice one with what looks like consistent resistance curve tho.

[@apuz13]

Inspire Fitness has one that works with their FT2

[@steveoake2901]

Cool random story @apuz13! An Inspire bench accessory for their ft has nothing to do with a REP bench assessory that will work with this reviewed REP functional trainer, but useful information to someone somewhere I guess.

[@Tondre55]

Coop man, just love you calling out the rewards thing. Glad someone is giving it bigger exposure, was just such a tone deaf email they sent out, a real bummer.

[@trevcdeal]

Don't worry. They will give you an overpriced shirt that no one wants to buy.

[@stephennolan219]

wait i didnt get that email wtf, just points gone noo

[@chrisa8203]

@@stephennolan219 think they expire by end of 2024

[@TheRizzler30000]

Rep will take an L with this new change.

[@steveoake2901]

​@@TheRizzler30000REP is getting it hard right now with people ordering cheap bands and chalk for free just so they don't lose their points. They really pissed off the entire home gym community that are REP customers.

[@markhalstead2386]

I ordered it with the extra weight for 310 pounds. Not for lat pulldowns or low row, but for a future belt squat for Ares 2.0. On Repins, I was an April 3rd pre-order person. I never got an extra $100 off even though we are waiting by far the longest. I know the price went up, but the lower price should be a benefit of ordering earlier.

[@coopertrost3816]

I ordered the special edition one and the wait time on it was egregious. Like months back from the initial date. I will say, they called me, offered me money back and a discount on the regular one with the shorter time frame to get it. They called me personally multiple times, were super respectful and honest. Just got the 2.0 and finished setting it up yesterday and it’s amazing. As for the rewards program, I likely cashed it out like a month before they axed it so…guess I lucked out. This thing is fantastic though l, over the moon happy with rep and the product itself

[@selfmadelen]

did it cost more to get the special edition?

[@coopertrost3816]

@@selfmadelen It was a couple hundred dollars to get the clear coat one yes, but they refunded the difference. So i didnt overpay for what was ultimately the regular black one. (which also still looks pretty great)

[@JonHanner-un7ef]

I was between Rep and Rogue and went Ares 2.0 for 4 reasons... 1) I saved about $1,400 between the two with the cart discount Rep offers when adding all the things like spotter arms, landmine, upgraded jcups, a new barbell, etc. 2) I wanted the added functionality -stuff like the built in adder weights, option for single or dual arm training, etc. And I also have a Rep bench - Ab-5200 that could dock inside the slots which I thought was cool. I didn't see really any extra function that Rogue had on theirs, but I did like the look of it. Some of the Rogue reviews on their site complained about the heavy trolleys, metal on metal contact on the bar catch, not enough stickers, and no place to put the weight selector pin on the first weight adjustment on the stack - all relatively minor but it feels like they rushed it a bit if they missed stuff like this. 3) Rep has been innovating a lot in this space the last few years and I think I'll have more options with them in the future. 4) Rep has been doing cable attachments really well for awhile, while rogue had the slinger out forever. I've got a mix of Rep and Rogue stuff in my garage, but the last thing I got from Rogue was when they released their cambered bar and it was too wide which made it unstable during use. Thankfully, enough people complained so they actually did something and made the narrow version and I swapped it out so it's good now. I don't want to swap out an entire cable rack machine lol. In the end, I think both options would have been a good choice, but I went Rep for these reasons.

[@JJ-zr6fu]

I don’t trust a Chinese drop shipping company

[@SaulFemm]

Point #1 is interesting, didn't know that. I'll have to consider that but still see myself going with Rogue because MIA

[@MarineScoutSniper]

Agreed.

[@texasbuzzard4970]

Huge mistake

[@raven-19x]

@@JJ-zr6fuRep isn’t that. Not anymore at least.

[@1slof150]

Hey coop great review. I Just got my 2.0 as well. I found that If you want a deep stretch on the low row you can just remove the carabiner and attach the handles directly to the cables. I was skeptical about the two attachments points as well. After using it I found that doing low rows with d handles feels amazing. I do both arms at the same time and having the freedom to rotate your wrist and not having a bar preventing a deep contraction is solid.

[@JonHanner-un7ef]

Mine come in about a month. How long did it take you to put it together? What tools did you use? Thanks!

[@1slof150]

@@JonHanner-un7ef about eight hours total, however it was before they dropped the assembly video. I’m sure it would’ve been quite a bit quicker being able to watch the video while assembling. For tools I bought a 36 mm socket from Harbor freight in order to be able to use a ratchet to attach the rack bolts. You’ll need a large crescent wrench as well. Other than that you’re g2g, the Allen keys needed are supplied with the Ares.

[@REPfitness]

Happy to hear you love it and the rows with D handles feel amazing. The swivel pulleys make a big difference too.

[@TRRT8516]

Any updates on stainless steel uprights?

[@mikiniss24]

Man, I’m surprised I thought you were going to be a lot more stoked on this. Still planning on buying though. I’m starting from nothing so this will be the corner stone of the garage gym.

[@ryanleal1764]

Well it is very similar to the 1.0 he’s used and reviewed previously

[@taylorbrown3807]

I’m getting mine delivered today. The wait is over.

[@selfmadelen]

so lucky

[@kyles8391]

REP just dropped the assembly video for it

[@taylorbrown3807]

@@kyles8391 thank god. Lol

[@street_preacher]

But the weight has just begun

[@bluaceful]

This thing looks magical, hope it comes to Europe soon enough

[@Jmscavaleiro]

REP stated recently that it should be in March of 2025

[@bluaceful]

@@Jmscavaleiro good to know, thanks

[@maximal_hd142]

​@@JmscavaleiroHoped it would come sooner. Might get one of the new ATX Racks instead

[@Jmscavaleiro]

​@@maximal_hd142I wanted a 4 post compact rack and REP is unbeatable. I have explored all ATX possibilities (and some that are up coming to be released) and the footprint will always be the double of a 4 post REP PR-5000 + Ares 2.0. Honestly, I love ATX. I have the thin rubber dual grip plates (very expensive ones) and I love them but for rack.. Rep PR-5000 definitely. The rack attachments compatibility of a REP rack is also a must and ATX has a proprietary rack dimensions which only makes able to buy ATX attachments and for me is a no go for a lifetime rack.

[@aftrmath959]

Like that you mentioned the potential of a bench leg extension/leg curl. Been looking to replace my dedicated leg ext/leg curl machine with something like force usa c10 sliding bench. Curious to see your take on that bench as well.

[@davidkazimierczak293]

Another thing not mentioned about REP changing their Loyalty Program is its even worse for those that do a pick-up orders from their showrooms in PA or CO. Before you'd get the loyalty points and the pick-up discount for pick-up orders. However, with their new tier discount for large purchases, you cannot combine it with their showroom pick-up discount.

[@kyles8391]

Where REP really screwed customers on the pre-order was those who ordered the Limited Edition Ares 2.0 on May 1 with a ship date of Aug 31. Then 2 days before the ship date REP calls us to say there's a problem with our orders and we were given 2 options: 1. Cancel the Limited Edition, wait another 5 weeks, and get the Ares 2.0 in black, or 2. Wait 5 more months for the Limited Edition. What sucks is I also ordered the PR-5000 in clear coat to match my Limited Edition. REP shipped that right away and I assembled it to reduce set-up time for my Ares. But when REP screwed up my order I couldn't return my rack to get it in a different color.

[@matthewfaucher4254]

Two questions: - Will you do a full review of the Force USA C10 with sliding bench? - Do you have an opinion on the Amstaff Fitness SD-5000? This is the first machine I’ve seen that the weight stack connects to a smith machine

[@NickJ6425]

Inspire has a few that are really great. The FT2 Functional trainer pro is where it's at

[@NickJ6425]

I realize I didn't make it clear but I was talking about the weight stack connecting to the Smith machine.

[@aairhartjr]

You guys need to start a series of assembling these racks or start another channel. Give some of the other folks some time in front of the camera Coop!

[@BradleyADavis]

This is a great idea! Garage Gym Reviews Equipment Assembly

[@mattjw08]

That's a great idea. Especially since whoever assembles is probably the expert in the industry.

[@spartacus7081]

Waiting on the 2.0 becoming available in UK! Will be perfect for my post shoulder-op therapy with the swivel pulleys

[@MHM452]

@spartacus7081 same here. I had the omni rack delivered from Canada. Looking forward to attaching a cable system to my unit

[@SeanFarrell1]

Just bought and put together my REP Ares 1.0 - can't beat the price! Plus the biggest issue (the low row height) can easily be fixed with a mod. Lovin it!

[@tylert1762]

what's the mod?

[@ShrimpCracka]

the fact that the 2.0 costs $800 more is crazy. they did not make $800s in improvements here.

[@Jmscavaleiro]

Just get an ATX floor tiny bench and you are good to go.

[@jerroldhyman1337]

My issue is the 80 inch rack. I like the change in the pulley system to address the shorter posts

[@johnhernandez4763]

Hey coop! I ordered the ares 2.0 this Black Friday rack week. Glad I did

[@FiveStripedFalcon]

1 handed trolley > 2 handed. I use the Athena everyday and if it were heavier or harder to move, my wife would just not bother.

[@LifterOfWeights]

Crazy stuff. I use 2 hands for my Adonis and don’t need to just like too. I can’t believe that one of the complaints on a piece of equipment is using 2 hands to adjust the trolley lol goofy

[@macalderon81]

I have a mix of Rep and Rogue equipment with the RM4 being the center piece of my home gym. I have been on a Rep kick with their specialty bars, pegasus, and Reppins (when they actually deliver). I do enjoy the Rep rewards program which helps me purchase more of their gear and keeps me loyal to them as I continue to upgrade, so please, don't get rid of that program. Reps pre-order system was good but the delay for the Reppin is annoying and hope I get them before the masses do who didn't pre-order. Now, I do wish Rogue had a SoCal store so I can visit and check their Functional Racks so I can do that upgrade but, Rep is looking like the new switch for me.

[@Marcellus11]

I really hope they add a bench and smith machine that works with the weight stacks. If they do, I’m buying it!

[@TheXILLR]

When are these companies going to make a low row where you don't have to sit on the floor. Its not about sitting on the floor that is the problem its that the optimal mechanics would be: feet slightly below hips and the row inline with your torso. Also - please review the force usa c10

[@maj0rdave]

ATX is the only one that has done this as far as I know, but they aren't coming to the US until 2025.

[@TheXILLR]

@@maj0rdave prime single stack has a good option but it’s over priced, has a long lead time, and the lat pull down seat is not good

[@raven-19x]

Sit on some mats and that should help?

[@kylewilliamson9946]

Rep utility pad works great.

[@davidb1975a]

I do like what they've done here. But I already have the 1.0. Which, I do like. The only way I would buy this would be if I bought a new house. I would like to see a comparison video between Rep and Rogue.

[@Danielprokopij]

One video i would like to see is a list of home gym equipment that is the most versatile to have in a compact space. My home gym is about 150sqft so its hard to decide what equipment makes the cut to use up precious floor space. Trying to pack the most versatility for body building is tough.

[@boss_acg]

They removed military discount a few years back and said they were doing rewards, and now they're getting rid that.

[@johnhernandez4763]

Yeah they got greedy coz a lot of people ordered

[@mikeprice3174]

Exactly. Removed their first responder discount as well, with the same explanation.

[@jedolson6015]

22:09 that last comment on waiting to release a 3.0… felt that. Got the ares 1.0 on Black Friday sale last year and two months later they announced the 2.0 with no way to get an upgrade kit 😅. Still love my 1.0, but that low row, easier add-on weights, and ability to do incline bench sure would be nice!

[@keithwyckoff5618]

My god....this 100%. I'm in the same boat. I wish there were a upgrade available for the new low row setup and the trolley with the pulley setup outside the uprights.

[@raven-19x]

Yeah im sure it hurts but the new design is much needed. If there is a 3.0, hopefully an upgrade path is available.

[@kstronglifts]

Thank you for commenting on what Rep did with their reward system! On our Home Gym FB page, we all jumped on the fact that this reward system better serves the newbie coming in and dropping 5 or 10 grand on their initial setup. What about the rest of us who already have all of that and just want to add on? I think what we did not like was the fact that they lied to us in the email saying they listened to customer feedback! I call BS. What they should have done has been honest and upfront--they were losing money from their bottom line. Like I commented to many people in the community...REP is forgetting those of us who made them popular.

[@Derek87829]

It's Coops home gym FB group. That's his group

[@xeqshunner]

So glad I dropped all that cash on Rep products the month before the points went away! I think they are making a huge mistake because those $500 in points that was sitting in my account just made me want to buy more stuff so I just kept buying until my points/rewards were gone. Now that the rewards program is gone, I will probably start looking outside of Rep when I want to buy something which is probably true for many of their customers. I just don’t see how that benefits business for Rep??

[@mikeprice3174]

​@xeqshunner Agreed. Their rewards program was one of the big reasons I have bought so much from them. I was planning some major purchases from REP next year, but I'll be going with another company instead now because of this. It was discouraging enough when they stopped offering a first responder discount, but this is the final straw.

[@edwardmeyer7178]

The low row actually looks lower than my modded 1.0 low row... Great review Coop..!

[@anthonymcdermont9859]

I have the 6 post Athena and I agree with you Coop. Ares 2 might be an upgrade over v1 but I think the Athena is overall better.

[@LarsVegas087]

So.... When will these be available for purchase in the EU?

[@toddyecies2881]

Great call pointing out the best deal may be the Ares 1.0. I got a 4 post Ares 1.0 for 2700ish and absolutely love it. I don't find the low row to be a significant issue. Is 2.0 or the FM better? Sure, but not 1000$ better (2.0) or 2000$ better (FM twin stack)

[@aminopa]

I got the Ares 1.0 a year ago, I love the thing, it really is a game changer. I understand that the product needs to improve and grow to stay competitive but the disapointment piece coming from rep is the lack of an upgrade kit and any meaninful discounts. I am sure that the two systems share many parts, at the minimum the weight stacks, so why not offer an upgrade kit and let people decide what they want to do, instead of just brushing us off with sell it on the used market.

[@3r123]

I just hope that Rep will continue to support 1.0 users with newest products

[@benmulleady7266]

Such as? All.rack attachments will work, cable handles are cable handles. Not sure what else they could do? I don't see them offering an upgraded low row as that means replacing the whole.bottom section so wouldn't be worth it

[@localcavalry2670]

@@benmulleady7266I feel like they mean any new add-on products. Such as compatible with the potential leg curls/extension, belt squat, etc

[@Jmscavaleiro]

​@@benmulleady7266not sure if I agree with you. The cable routing could interfere with rack attachment compatibilities, at least will add some limitations while trying to use them.

[@trollzone1]

I'm tall on my rep 1.0 I do my tricep pull downs inside the bench, using the lat pull down pulleys...You could be 6'5" and have plenty of clearances...

[@BigRed-jh5wf]

Assuming you have the 93” height, correct?

[@trollzone1]

@@BigRed-jh5wf yes! I’m too tall for anything less. If you get an 80 inch you’ll have to do a lot of training seated or on your knees. Regardless of how tall you are.

[@TonyFontanesi]

REP makes great stuff. I have both REP and Rogue equipment in my garage. Competition benefits us all. I'd like to see a review of GMWD products (particularly their Pendulum Squat) - can GMWD strike a balance between price and "good enough" for home gym users?

[@tonya7699]

All the added functionality, nicer features, and you get 5% off over 5k purchase instead of the points, which is instant savings and why I got the Ares 2.0. I thought about Rogue, but it’s a long lead time too(12 weeks) and I wanted the extra functionality on the Ares unit, and it was $1,200 more. I think they also had delayed pre orders beyond 12 weeks but he didn’t mention that either.

[@THEREALTWISTEDINSANE]

They say to get the 6 post so your ready for when they drop the counter balanced smith

[@eszlsk]

Where have they mentioned it? I ended up getting the bulletproof one but I lose 5 holes or so of adjustment for the functional trainer. (Athena)

[@THEREALTWISTEDINSANE]

​I emailed them​@@eszlsk

[@JohnnyNine]

Who says this?

[@THEREALTWISTEDINSANE]

Emailed them

[@eszlsk]

Ah thanks. Wonder how much room it will take up in the rack...

[@jgmene]

Bro's definitely sponsored by Patagonia. He stay bringing the heat 🔥

[@NoFate247]

Rogue and rep fitness definitely going head to head in this space

[@Spp235.]

Went with the Ares 2.0. Am a basement gyms so the 80 rack was the only option as with Ares it fits in 83 inch ceiling. Rep did call and offered cash refund for $330 bucks for the loss of points, or 380 if I accepted coupons on future orders. I chose the coupons as Rep has some really cool innovations in their pipeline and I don’t really want a Frankenstein rack. So am investing in the rep ecosystem knowing it will work together nicely. Wait time is a bummer but not the end of the world. There are always substitute exercises.

[@gfamania]

I’ve been on the fence between the Athena and Ares 2.0 just waiting for this comparison. Coop saying he still might prefer the Athena helps making my decision. Only hesitation I still have is what the future looks like for the ares 2.0 in terms of Attachments / compatibility.

[@psykalag]

I'm pretty sure delran is the material they make motorcycle frame sliders out of

[@GarageGymReviews]

Good info. Thanks! - coop

[@danwcoon]

Already my favorite video

[@chrisa8203]

I canceled my Preorder of Ares 2.0 because (1) Glucks review of Rogue FM Twin Stack (2) Rep removing rewards points (3) Rep having 3-4 month lead times. Would get my Rogue rack faster despite ordering 1 month later

[@MarineScoutSniper]

But you pay more

[@chrisa8203]

@@MarineScoutSniper yup. But I also have a Rogue Rhino and I believe the quality will be superior to Rep. That thing is a tank. Also skipped out on the $300 shrouds to save money.

[@MarineScoutSniper]

@@chrisa8203 understood. Rogue makes a great product and it’s nice we get a choice of some amazing options. Train Like A Beast! Godspeed Brother.

[@raven-19x]

I would be all over Rogue if they offered a slightly shorter option. The FM would barely be scraping my ceiling and pull-ups won’t be an option with no head room.

[@robertdowling4123]

Review the Maxum SX2. If you give it a decent review that thing will be flying of the shelf given all its functionality along with reasonable price. Plus no sales tax since it gets imported from Canada.

[@cryptostu-allthingscrypto8948]

I would also love to see a review of that.

[@CM-rt8gt]

It would be interesting if REP would ever come out with a 1.0 to 2.0 conversion package. How many of the parts changed and how many are the same. The weight plates probably didn’t change, and probably the guide rods (if you don’t change height). Looks like a lot of the other parts would change, like cables, pulley brackets, trolly, etc. It would interesting to see the price point on an item like that vs selling 1.0 and buying 2.0. I have the 1.0 and I love it, but have no desire to sell it for less money and buy the new one when the upgrades are that drastic enough to warrant the time, hassle, and cost. I know they offered a discount code to 1.0 users, and probably did that because most won’t even use it. But if you offered a discounted upgrade kit, you know some people might just be interested in that. Just a thought.

[@murdog04]

I absolutely love my 1.0 Ares. It is just the best IMO if you are looking for a functional trainer for your power rack. I use mine 5 days a week. Such a great purchase.

[@jonpageable]

Hi, I already have a squat rack I use for barbell exercises. Would you recommend a 4 post ares to be used solely as a functional trainer?

[@murdog04]

If you already have a rack a 4 post may not be necessary. If you have lots of space and you rally want to add a 4 post then I would say 100% yes. Thats the way to go. However, there are a lot of functional trainers out there that take up much lest space than a full 4 post 3x3 rack. If you do add a 4 post you probably could sell your existing rack and save some space. I have a 6 post PR-5000 set up, but I use it for everything. If I had it to do over, I probably would just get a 4 post because I conduct most of my workouts off the front of the rack. The 6 post isn’t really necessary. Hope that helps you with your decision. Best of luck shopping :)

[@jonpageable]

@@murdog04 thanks, given my height constraints i can’t find a functional trainer that also has lat pulldown/low row like the ares. The 4 post doesn’t take up any more space than a regular functional trainer. I would prefer to keep my squat rack so I can leave the barbells on there and not have to toggle between j cups and pulleys on the ares

[@murdog04]

@ that sounds great. I am really limited on space. I would love to be able to keep my bench set up and not have to trade out attachments all the time. Thats a good problem to have :)

[@DethpickleDave]

Regarding a 4-post needing outriggers... don't they make a really short crossmember you could just bolt it to the wall with? Then you could avoid the front and back outriggers or even bolting it to the ground. It's something I'm really considering. I've got cabinets on one side of the garage that I could take a couple out and this would fit in the same depth they take up. I'd just rather mount it to the wall than floor because I have a post-tension slab.

[@Jmscavaleiro]

That idea I already brought to REP but with the regular short crossmembers. It seems that it should work, based on their feedback, but firstly you should mount the Ares 2.0 first and then add the crossmembers to attach to the wall. Your idea of having really short crossmembers is nice

[@DethpickleDave]

@@Jmscavaleiro The quirk of my scenario is that my garage has about a 3"x4" sill or base at the wall, so I couldn't put the rack up against it. It has to stand out a couple inches from the wall. So a 4-6" cross member would really be all it needs to be wall mounted. Conceivably, it'd only need it at the top.

[@Jmscavaleiro]

@@DethpickleDave I have contacted REP support to use the crossmembers only at the top and the response was positive. So I believe that your idea could be fulfilled but if they will be developing a very short crossmember? I doubt it. Keep in mind that you will always need the Stringer, based on their feedback.

[@DethpickleDave]

@@Jmscavaleiro Someone has made a short 3x3 somewhere. I know I came across one when I was plotting out possibilities of various folding racks. Even if no one does, that coudn't be hard for a local metal shop to fabricate to the exact length you need. As for a stringer, I'm less worried about that. A 2x6 spanning your studs would be plenty adequate to mount into. Now I just need to have a garage sale or three to empty out these damn cabinets!

[@killerkhatiby009]

Coop, any reason someone should get this or the Rogue FM series over something like the MAXUM Fitness SX2 besides the SX2 only being available as half-rack with 5/8" holes and perhaps someone wanting a full rack and/or 1" holes? Outside of that, it seems like the MAXUM does WAY more given what's included with it plus the features you can't even add to the Rep/Rogue like the counter-balanced smith machine, vertical leg press, and articulating FT arms with the dual stacks + built-in plate-horns to load as heavy as you want and/or combine the two stacks together swiveling the arms inward to mimic a 1:1 ratio (side + center mount attachments are included to do pulldowns and rows with either configuration too). And it costs noticeably less as well while still being standard 3" x 3" 11-gauge steel. Just overall seems like a much better choice for most people but perhaps I'm missing something. Really would love to see a review and comparison!

[@raven-19x]

Likely fit/finish details. Some of the welds look rough on the pics. Otherwise it seems like a great option with more versatility.

[@robertdowling4123]

I agree review the sx2. If it works as good as it looks and with all the inclusions (counter balance smith machine) then it beats the heck out of Rep and Rogue. Plus Coop as much as you say you workout quite a bit on Smith’s then review this thing.

[@Ygloo8]

hi coop. for someone who has the space, would you recommend the Ares 2.0 or the athena + a dedicated lat/low row? as for the functional trainer alone, which is better between the Ares and the Athena?

[@cv2633]

Looks great but with Rogue coming out with their version, I’m gonna have to go with the overbuilt, American made product

[@nickmaag8423]

If you’re adding the weight horns to the 4 post rack than the rear feet aren’t really that big of an issue since it’ll need to sit out a bit farther anyways

[@ericjacobson8908]

Is that pull up bars you showed for the 4 post rack available? Or just a concept that hasn’t been released? That looks perfect!

[@evilkokonut]

Thanks for mentioning the rewards and preorder issues! Im glad these issues are being noticed!

[@xaaxathus]

Do you think there will be a black friday discount? X% off over a certain amount? I know they did last year but it seems like they've been more stingy this year...I finally got enough space to start a home gym and am leaning towards PR-5000 + Ares 2.0.

[@JonHanner-un7ef]

It's what I got. I saved money by spending over 5k. They have cart discounts above that amount, so perfect when I ordered my PR-5000 + Ares 2.0 and other stuff.

[@StretchClub1]

So with this new review, what would you buy if starting from scratch? The Rogue FM dual stack or the Rev Ares 2.0 both with racks and the same options?

[@d3rpn1nj47]

Coop you gotta get used to using D-handles like 95% of the time. So much better for pulldowns especially in frontal plane but just really better lol

[@michaelpietrzak2067]

Hear ya about the rewards system. I completely stopped shopping at Titan after they dropped theirs.

[@VillainCollector1]

Looking on Rep's site, it appears they have a belt squat attachment for this as well. Looks to be removeable and modular, which is a major plus.

[@CVNTGETENOUGH]

That shroud looks sick! 🤑

[@j.d.w.2929]

The question I really need answered isn't Ares vs Athena, it's the comparison of Ares/athena vs Arcadia/Adonis or the other REP (or other brand) standalone functional trainers. If I have room for it, is it simply better to have the standalone trainer? Should the possibility of future rack attachments sway me to the Ares? Will some rack attachments work on the adonis? What are the differences in lifts I'm able to achieve on one vs the other like seated rows or lat pulldowns?

[@sscarbon]

Coop has a lot of influence…so I really hope they don’t listen to him about the single exist point. I love having the option of bilateral movements. It’s on of the things I enjoy most about my Rep rack.

[@branden9]

You can also switch hands if you only have one exit point. All depends on what you want. I think it was good he at least pointed that out

[@GarageGymReviews]

I don't think they should remove it on the Ares, it's one of it's unique features. I was just saying I prefer a single exit point for my typical training. - Coop

[@tonya7699]

Agreed. Better to have options than less options for more training possibilities. It’s different than just grabbing something with one arm. Especially for sports training.

[@1slof150]

Yeah I thought I would prefer a single exit point too but after using my ares 2.0 I fell in love with having 2 exit points. I still do both arms at the same time but having freedom rotate your wrist and not having anything limiting the contraction is great.

[@jellevanelten1483]

@@1slof150 2 exit points + jammer arms is fun as well. Who knows, their new jammer arms might make use of it. They're also coming with a counterbalanced smith machine.

[@JP-vz2qn]

Coop, im tired of the wait and constant delays. How would you say this compares to the Athena? Are the updates in the pulleys, the extended trolley, etc. worth waiting?

[@zaheen656]

Is the comparison video gonna come out before the black friday sales? Hoping to snag either this or the Rogue fm and having a tough time deciding

[@MockChicken]

Whoa hold up. Coop preferred a concave mag pin over knurled? I dont even know what to believe in anymore.

[@AtzinF]

Those are the best, they use those for commercial equipment

[@GarageGymReviews]

Concave knurl is really what I want. - Coop

[@lbyoung8420]

Knurled is king

[@evotikto]

Please review the MAXUM SX2

[@erichong2196]

Would you pick this, Ares 1.0 or wall mounted Athena. I've been eyeing the wall mounted Athena.

[@kylek1898]

Dying to see the FM6 vs Area 2.0 face off!!

[@Jcroffe]

Hey Coop! What's the best configuration for the REP Ares 2.0? Do you have a video on that?

[@Hichris808]

Can you review the BodyKore Squat Box? I'd like to see how it could be used with a stack like the Ares 2.0... especially the low row connection point.

[@ThatLuckyK1D]

If you can afford the small premium and have the ceiling height, Rogue FM6 twin is a no brainer.

[@Rhobyn]

I know it is tricky to get them outside of Europe, but I would really like to see some reviews on the ATX rigs and racks. They seem like to Rep what Rep is to Rogue. They are coming out with a similar system to Ares 1.0 for 2/3 the price...

[@maj0rdave]

ATX is the next home gym brand to watch out for next year when they come to the US. They have a superb line of products.

[@DaveSchneider7]

I own two ATX racks, they’re fantastic quality. Also, ATX has consistently been ahead of the curve in the home gym space for years now. They had integrated cable stacks in their power racks YEARS before anyone else, a full ecosystem of bench attachments, etc.

[@Rhobyn]

@@DaveSchneider7 I really want to see someone compare the ATX FCR-780 to the Ares, once it comes out. The price seems amazing for what is included.

[@marsBWR]

I can't believe they have a 2.0 where the biggest change was to get the row off the ground and they only half fixed it. Why is it so hard to get the row height to mid-torso while sitting on a flat bench?

[@Cfpltguy]

Can you review the Wall mounted Athena?

[@T-Bone-y1f]

Could you please do a review for functional trainers for home gyms. Budget version, intermediate, and high end. I know Major Fitness has one as well. I’m trying to build me a home gym and I want a functional trainer rack but they are costly. I’m not an expert trainer but I do workout 4 to 6 times a week. Thank you

[@zlatix10]

omg… now the waiting game just became worse 😭. REP mentioned they are shooting for next year for the ares 2.0 but after seeing this video, im dying from the inside to buy one😂. would have gone for 1.0 if it was 800€ cheapers as it is in US tho😬😬😬 edit; waiting game became worse since I live in EU. should have been more clear 😅

[@Jmscavaleiro]

March 2025, it seems

[@BNcherrypeppermint]

So do you think it’s worth the upgrade? Never really answered in the video.

[@davidbeiler6364]

Looks a lot nicer then titan's!

[@SolarBKJ]

We need a force usa c10 review coop!

[@kyles8391]

We need the C10 Sliding Bench review

[@octam9733]

Definitely!!!

[@matthewkelberg4876]

How well does incline bench work with the upgrade? Can you comfortably do 45 degree incline? 60 degree? Thanks.

[@aldenapoli4526]

I have learned much from your videos and appreciate you. However, you may want to be consistent with your requests in manufactures design. This video Rep listened to you about the pulley cables outside of the uprights. Then in an earlier Bells of steel video you said it was not a big deal.

[@GarageGymReviews]

That’s because I had a commenter challenge my thought process on more width equaling a greater stretch. He was right. I was wrong. And now that I’m more learned, I want to pass that on. - Coop

[@wildcook5953]

Review some of the german brand Atletica`s equitment.

[@DrAJ_LatinAmerica]

Careful - Don't upset your food server, proctologist or cameraman 😂😂. Great video as always

[@mikeprice3174]

With the removal of the rewards system, REP falls closest to "proctologist" at this point.

[@idonotcare99]

I reached out to REP on two separate occasions, and they said that no refunds will be given to people who preorder after the price increase.

[@RowlandsAdam]

What was the kickback on the reppins? I ordered these and never got money back for delays?

[@jacobbruner1]

Yeah I only had the ares 1 for like 8 or 9 months then they announced the 2. Feels bad Edit: i bought stuff from rep in November last year and got rewards on my account but never have been able to use them lol

[@LifeOfErrick]

I'd love to see REP offer a 100"+ option for this, that's the only selling point that might pull me more towards a ROGUE FM Twin - I'm 6'3" - I can't do 93" in my basement so if I'm already in the garage I want that little extra travel (and thinking about where jammer arms might go)

[@keenan4389]

I’m 6’4” with a 6’8” wingspan and the 93” rack has been perfectly fine for all the lifting I do. Just FYI

[@LifeOfErrick]

@@keenan4389 Thanks! that does help a lot.

[@Lennox-ym9bg]

Hopefully future items also support the 1.0.... this stuff is way too expensive to make obsolete

[@GregRamaker-s4u]

Will you be able to rig up trolley arms with the cables above for lat pull down work (mimic seated row) amd from the low row attachment( to mimic shoulder press/decline chest press)? I appreciate it!

[@balochharris21]

What would you recommend: Aeres 2 or hyperion?

[@qthomas111]

When will coop finally review the Eleiko functional trainer. He went to the Eleiko event over there and then never really made any other videos on them. Coop please give some Eleiko reviews for us!!!

[@manxmike959]

Which REP bench is he talking about, hoping to be out soon??

[@jefferson612612]

Losing the rewards program was brutal! I still have over 4000 points to use up and they don't let you use them all in a single purchase (which is also ridiculous). I've emailed them about this and the reply I got was just a bunch of gibberish, something about how they're always listening to their customers to "improve the experience". Clearly not!

[@Colechil]

Sooo what you're saying is get the extra weight stack AND a gym pin? Gotcha 👌🏻

[@TheGhu123]

was set to buy a voltra1 but ares 2.0 is looking more attractive

[@tylerwagoner378]

How much slop is there with the trolleys / upright? Is it noticeable when using?

[@BB-ni8vy]

I pre ordered the reppins, got pushed back over a month (still don’t have them) and didn’t receive any money back like coop mentioned.

[@comfyburrow]

In your interview they said it wasn't worth it to sell an upgrade function, but how? Having to not re-buy all the weight plates would save money, materials, shipping, and stop us from having to lug hundreds more pounds to where our gyms are. Also, resell? to who? Who is going to buy the left over plates if no one can buy the Ares without the plates? Anyone who could use them will already have them, and regardless it isn't an easy thing to ship/get to someone. I've filled out their feedback forms but no response. I can't see how this saves them money either.

[@larmckenna]

Any idea if theres an upgrade for monster lite or version for rogue half racks?

[@Svnchx]

Sounds like you’re disappointed lol Honestly I regret pre ordering mine I wish I had seen the rogue fm6 first and I would’ve ordered it instead I probably would even have it by now My order was delayed until mid December and all they did was give me a $100 refund on it I could cancel it but I have to sell my rack on the side

[@1slof150]

Bro I was in the exact same boat you were in. Was kicking myself for not waiting and getting the fm6 instead. I got my ares 2.0 last week and it’s amazing. I thought I’d prefer a single exit point for a low row and lat pull down but after using the ares I found that the two exit points are the way to go. Especially for the low row. Seeing it done alternating each arm always looked gimmicky to me but doing it using both arms at the same time feels amazing. Nothing limiting a deep contraction and being able to rotate your wrist during the movement is a game changer.

[@Svnchx]

@@1slof150 I dont really care about the dual pulleys on the low row I tend to do the triangle row mostly, but it is nice to have the extra option But hopefully it’s as good as I hoped it would be I just hate that they delayed it so much

[@Nator828]

Is it possible to extend a PR 5000 Rack with a Rogue Monster upright or a Rep PR 4000 with a Monster lite upright?