Why Learn Gym Equipment Names with Pictures?
If you’re new to the gym, walking into a room full of machines can feel overwhelming.
You see rows of treadmills, racks of weights, and dozens of strength machines—but what are they all called, and which ones should you use?
That’s where a list of gym equipment names with pictures and prices becomes essential.
Knowing the names of gym machines helps you:
- Understand which muscles each machine targets
- Follow workout programs more easily
- Avoid confusion when trainers or friends recommend specific exercises
- Compare gym equipment prices before buying for your home or fitness studio
Whether you’re searching for leg workout machines names, chest workout machine names, or simply a complete list of gym equipment with images, this guide will walk you through everything step by step.
If you’re planning to open a fitness facility, don’t miss our guide on Must-Know Equipment Prices for Opening a Gym — it covers the top 10 commercial gym machines with wholesale costs so you can budget effectively.
What You’ll Find in This Guide
This article is designed to be your complete reference for gym equipment names and uses. Inside, you’ll discover:
- A full list of gym machines names with pictures and prices (2025 update)
- Detailed breakdowns of upper body, lower body, and core workout machines
- Real user experiences and trainer insights (so you know what actually works)
- Comparison tables to help you choose the right equipment
- Multimedia support: images, diagrams, and even video demos for better understanding
Quick Overview: Gym Equipment Categories
Before diving into individual machines, here’s a quick look at the main categories of fitness equipment names you’ll encounter:
- Cardio Machines: treadmill, elliptical, stationary bike
- Upper Body Strength Machines: chest press, lat pulldown, seated row, bicep curl
- Lower Body Strength Machines: leg press, leg extension, leg curl, calf press, glute machine
- Core & Ab Machines: abdominal crunch, rotary torso
- Free Weights & Functional Equipment: dumbbells, barbells, cable machines, Smith machine
Gym Equipment Comparison Table (Names, Pictures, Prices & Uses)
To help you quickly compare different gym equipment names and uses with pictures, here’s a consolidated table of the most popular machines in 2025.
| Gym Machine Name | Target Muscles | Price (2025) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chest Press Machine | Pectorals, triceps, shoulders | $705 | Beginners & bodybuilders | Safer than bench press, great for chest mass |
| Butterfly / Pec Deck Machine | Inner chest, shoulders | $705 | Isolation training | Complements chest press for definition |
| Lat Pulldown Machine | Lats, traps, biceps | $705 | Back width & posture | Alternative to pull‑ups |
| Seated Row Machine | Rhomboids, traps, rear delts | $705 | Back thickness | Corrects rounded shoulders |
| Shoulder Press Machine | Deltoids, triceps | $705 | Shoulder strength | Builds rounded shoulders |
| Bicep Curl Machine | Biceps | $705 | Arm isolation | Easy for beginners to feel the pump |
| Triceps Press Machine | Triceps | $705 | Arm strength | Complements bicep curls |
| Abdominal Crunch Machine | Rectus abdominis, obliques | $705 | Core strength | Safer than floor crunches |
| Rotary Torso Machine | Obliques, lower back | $705 | Core stability | Improves rotational strength |
| Back Extension Machine | Lower back, glutes, hamstrings | $705 | Posture & rehab | Relieves back pain from sitting |
| Leg Press Machine | Quads, glutes, hamstrings | $1,480 | Leg strength | Squat alternative, heavy loading |
| Leg Extension Machine | Quadriceps | $705 | Quad isolation | Useful for rehab |
| Leg Curl Machine | Hamstrings | $705 | Posterior chain | Prevents hamstring injuries |
| Glute Machine | Glutes, hamstrings | $705 | Glute growth | Hip extension strength |
| Abductor Machine | Outer thighs, glutes | $728 | Hip stability | Improves leg aesthetics |
| Adductor Machine | Inner thighs | $728 | Balance & stability | Strengthens inner thighs |
| Calf Press Machine | Calves | $705 | Lower leg strength | Complements squats & leg press |
How to Use This Table
- Beginners: Start with compound machines like the chest press, lat pulldown, and leg press.
- Intermediate lifters: Add isolation machines such as the bicep curl, leg extension, and ab crunch.
- Advanced athletes: Mix machines with free weights and functional tools for complete development.
In the next sections, we’ll go through each category in detail, with gym equipment names, pictures, prices, and real-world tips.
Upper Body Gym Machines Names and Uses
Upper body training is a core component of most fitness plans.
Whether you're aiming for broader shoulders, a thicker chest, or stronger arms, familiarizing yourself with these upper body gym machine names with pictures can help you quickly find the right equipment.
Chest Press Machine (Chest Workout Machine Name with Pictures)
What it is:
The Chest Press Machine is one of the most popular chest workout machines names in any gym.
It targets the pectorals, triceps, and front deltoids, mimicking the bench press but with more stability.
Benefits:
- Builds chest size and strength
- Improves pushing power for daily activities
- Safer than free weights for beginners
- Supports shoulder joint stability
How to Use:
- Adjust the seat so handles align with mid-chest.
- Grip handles firmly, palms forward.
- Push forward until arms are nearly straight.
- Slowly return to start position.
Trainer’s Tip:
Kev, a certified trainer, says:“For beginners, the chest press machine is the safest way to build chest strength before moving to free weights.”
Price (2025): $705
Lat Pulldown Machine (Back Gym Equipment Name)
What it is:
The Lat Pulldown Machine is a staple among back machines at gym names, designed to strengthen the latissimus dorsi, trapezius, and biceps.
Want to go deeper into back training? Check out our Ultimate Machine Back Workout Guide for a complete breakdown of back machines names and routines to build strength and width.
Benefits:
- Builds a wide V-shaped back
- Improves posture and reduces neck tension
- Adjustable weights make it beginner-friendly
- Great alternative to pull-ups
How to Use:
- Sit down and secure thighs under the pad.
- Grip the bar wider than shoulder-width.
- Pull bar down to chest, keeping back straight.
- Slowly release back up.
User Experience:
Many beginners struggle with pull-ups. The lat pulldown allows progressive overload without needing bodyweight strength from day one.
Price (2025): $705
Seated Row Machine (Back Machines at Gym Names)
What it is:
The Seated Row Machine is one of the most effective back workout machines names, targeting the rhomboids, trapezius, and rear delts.
Benefits:
- Strengthens upper back and shoulders
- Corrects rounded posture from desk work
- Balances chest-heavy training routines
How to Use:
- Sit with chest against pad, feet on platform.
- Grip handles and pull towards torso.
- Squeeze shoulder blades together.
- Slowly return to start.
Trainer’s Insight:
“Rowing machines are essential for anyone with hunched shoulders. They help correct posture and prevent imbalances.”
Price (2025): $705
Bicep Curl Machine (Arm Gym Machine Name)
What it is:
The Bicep Curl Machine isolates the biceps brachii, making it one of the most common arm machines at the gym names.
Benefits:
- Builds arm size and definition
- Safer than free weights for beginners
- Easy to adjust resistance
How to Use:
- Sit with arms resting on pad.
- Grip handles and curl upwards.
- Slowly lower back down.
User Experience:
Many gym-goers love this machine for its simplicity. It’s a go-to for beginners who want to feel the “pump” in their arms.
Price (2025): $705
Shoulder Press Machine (Shoulder Gym Machine Name)
What it is:
The Shoulder Press Machine targets the deltoids and triceps, simulating an overhead press.
Benefits:
- Builds strong, rounded shoulders
- Improves overhead pushing strength
- Safer than barbell presses for beginners
How to Use:
- Adjust seat so handles are level with shoulders.
- Grip handles and press upward.
- Slowly lower back down.
Trainer’s Tip:
“If you want broad shoulders, the shoulder press machine is a must. It’s beginner-friendly and effective.”
Price (2025): $705
Core & Ab Gym Equipment Names and Uses
A strong core is the foundation of nearly every movement in fitness. Beyond just “six-pack abs,” your core muscles stabilize the spine, protect against injury, and improve posture.
Here are the most common ab workout machine names and core gym equipment names with pictures you’ll find in modern gyms.
Abdominal Crunch Machine (Ab Workout Machine Name with Pictures)
What it is:
The Abdominal Crunch Machine is one of the most popular ab machines at the gym names.
It isolates the rectus abdominis (the “six-pack” muscle) while also engaging the obliques and hip flexors.
Benefits:
- Builds visible abdominal definition
- Strengthens the core for better posture
- Reduces pressure on the spine compared to floor crunches
- Adjustable resistance for progressive overload
How to Use:
- Sit down and adjust the seat and pads.
- Grip the handles or place arms across the chest.
- Contract your abs to bring the torso forward.
- Slowly return to the starting position.
Trainer’s Tip: Kev, a certified trainer, explains:“Strong abs are not just for looks. They protect your lower back and improve performance in every other lift.”
Price (2025): $705
Rotary Torso Machine (Oblique / Side Abs Machine Name)
What it is:
The Rotary Torso Machine—sometimes called the torso rotation machine—is designed to target the internal and external obliques, the muscles responsible for twisting and stabilizing the spine.
Benefits:
- Strengthens side abs for rotational power
- Improves athletic performance in sports like tennis, golf, and boxing
- Helps prevent lower back injuries by stabilizing the spine
- Adjustable resistance for all fitness levels
How to Use:
- Sit with your torso upright and grip the handles.
- Rotate your torso slowly to one side.
- Return to the center, then rotate to the opposite side.
- Keep movements controlled to avoid strain.
User Experience: Many beginners find this machine easier than free-weight oblique exercises. It provides guided motion, making it safer for those with limited core strength.
Price (2025): $705
Lower Body Gym Machines Names and Pictures
Lower body strength is the foundation of athletic performance, posture, and overall fitness.
From quads and hamstrings to glutes and calves, these leg workout machines names with pictures are essential in any gym.
For a focused look at leg and glute workout machines names, see our dedicated article: Gym Machines for Thighs, Calves, Butt 2025.
Leg Press Machine (Leg Workout Machine Name)
What it is:
The Leg Press Machine is one of the most recognized leg gym equipment names.
It allows you to push weight with your legs in a controlled motion, targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes.
Benefits:
- Builds overall leg strength
- Safer alternative to barbell squats for beginners
- Adjustable foot placement to emphasize quads or glutes
- Supports progressive overload
How to Use:
- Sit with your back flat against the pad.
- Place feet shoulder-width apart on the platform.
- Push the platform upward, extending legs without locking knees.
- Slowly lower back down.
User Experience: Many lifters report that the leg press is the best way to safely load heavy weight without stressing the lower back.
Price (2025): $1,480
Leg Extension Machine (Quadriceps Machine Name)
What it is:
The Leg Extension Machine isolates the quadriceps, making it one of the most common leg exercise equipment names in gyms.
Benefits:
- Builds quad size and definition
- Useful for knee rehabilitation
- Simple to use for beginners
How to Use:
- Sit with knees aligned to the machine’s pivot point.
- Place shins behind the padded bar.
- Extend legs upward until straight.
- Slowly lower back down.
Trainer’s Tip: “Keep the movement slow and controlled to protect your knees.”
Price (2025): $705
Leg Curl Machine (Hamstring Machine Name)
What it is:
The Leg Curl Machine—sometimes called the hamstring curl machine—targets the posterior chain, especially the hamstrings.
Benefits:
- Strengthens hamstrings for balance with quads
- Reduces risk of hamstring injuries
- Improves sprinting and jumping performance
How to Use:
- Lie face down (prone version) or sit upright (seated version).
- Place ankles under the padded lever.
- Curl legs toward glutes.
- Slowly return to start.
Price (2025): $705
Glute Machine (Glute Workout Equipment Name)
What it is:
The Glute Machine is designed to isolate the gluteus maximus, making it one of the most popular gym equipment names for glutes.
Benefits:
- Builds stronger, rounder glutes
- Improves hip extension strength
- Supports athletic performance and posture
How to Use:
- Position yourself with chest against the pad.
- Place one foot on the platform.
- Push backward using your glutes.
- Slowly return to start.
User Experience: Athletes and physique competitors often consider this machine a must-have for glute development.
Price (2025): $705
Abductor & Adductor Machines (Inner & Outer Thigh Machines Names)
What they are:
- Abductor Machine: Works the outer thighs and glutes.
- Adductor Machine: Works the inner thighs.
Benefits:
- Improves hip stability
- Enhances leg aesthetics
- Supports balance and injury prevention
How to Use:
- Sit with legs positioned against the pads.
- For abductors: push legs outward.
- For adductors: squeeze legs inward.
- Control the motion both ways.
Price (2025): $728 each
Calf Press Machine (Calf Exercise Machine Name)
What it is:
The Calf Press Machine isolates the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, helping build lower leg strength and definition.
Benefits:
- Builds stronger calves for running and jumping
- Improves ankle stability
- Complements squats and leg presses
How to Use:
- Place feet on the platform with heels hanging off.
- Push through the balls of your feet to raise heels.
- Slowly lower back down.
Price (2025): $705
Free Weights, Cable Machines & Functional Training Equipment
While strength machines are excellent for beginners, many lifters eventually incorporate free weights, cable machines, and functional training tools into their workouts.
These pieces of equipment allow for more freedom of movement, engage stabilizing muscles, and mimic real-life motions.
If you’re considering a versatile solution for home or commercial use, our Multi-Station Gym Buying Guide explains how to choose the perfect all-in-one system.
Dumbbells & Barbells (Free Weight Equipment Names)
What they are:
- Dumbbells: Handheld weights available in pairs, ranging from light to very heavy.
- Barbells: Long bars loaded with weight plates, used for compound lifts like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses.
Benefits:
- Train through multiple planes of motion
- Build stabilizer muscles
- Allow progressive overload with small weight increments
- Essential for compound lifts
User Experience: Many trainers recommend starting with machines, then progressing to dumbbells and barbells once form and confidence improve.
Smith Machine (Guided Barbell Machine Name)
What it is:
The Smith Machine is a barbell fixed on vertical rails, providing stability and safety for lifts like squats, bench presses, and shoulder presses.
Benefits:
- Safer for solo training
- Helps beginners learn barbell movements
- Adjustable safety stops prevent injury
Trainer’s Tip: “The Smith Machine is great for learning form, but don’t rely on it exclusively—mix in free weights for full muscle activation.”
Power Rack (Squat Rack / Cage)
What it is:
The Power Rack—sometimes called a squat rack—is a versatile frame that allows barbell training with safety pins and adjustable hooks.
Looking for a heavy-duty setup? Explore our review of the 7 Best Power Cages with Lat Pulldown of 2025 — ideal for building a complete home gym.
Benefits:
- Enables heavy compound lifts safely
- Adjustable for squats, bench presses, overhead presses, and deadlifts
- Essential for advanced strength training
- User Experience: Athletes and bodybuilders consider the power rack the centerpiece of any serious gym.
Cable Machines (Pulley-Based Gym Equipment Names)
What they are:
Cable Machines use adjustable pulleys and weight stacks, allowing for a wide variety of pushing and pulling exercises.
Common Exercises:
- Seated rows
- Lat pulldowns
- Tricep pushdowns
- Cable chest flies
- Face pulls
Benefits:
- Constant tension throughout the movement
- Adjustable angles for targeting different muscle fibers
- Great for both isolation and compound exercises
Functional Training Equipment (Gym Accessories Names)
Examples:
- Medicine Balls: For explosive throws and core work
- Bosu Balls: For balance and stability training
- Suspension Trainers (TRX): For bodyweight resistance exercises
- Kettlebells: For swings, cleans, and dynamic strength training
Benefits:
- Improve coordination and balance
- Mimic real-life athletic movements
- Add variety to workouts
Real User Experiences & Trainer Insights
Reading about gym equipment names and uses is helpful, but hearing how real people train with these machines makes the information come alive.
Below are authentic insights from trainers and athletes who’ve shared their experiences with popular workout machines names.
Kev the Trainer (Beginner-Friendly Guidance)
Kev, a certified personal trainer, emphasizes the importance of matching your workout to your goals:
“If your focus is weight loss, start with a cardio workout. If your focus is strength building, begin with resistance training. Every workout should include flexibility and core work as well.”
Takeaway: Beginners should use strength training machines like the chest press machine or leg press machine to build confidence before moving to free weights.
Jared Feather, IFBB Pro (Chest Press Machine Experience)
Professional bodybuilder Jared Feather praised the Hoist Chest Press Machine:
“It gave me the best chest pump of my life. The biomechanics match the natural strength curve perfectly, making it one of the most effective chest workout machines names I’ve ever used.”
Takeaway: Even advanced athletes rely on machines for targeted hypertrophy and joint-friendly training.
Dr. Mike, PhD in Sport Physiology (Prime Row Machine)
Dr. Mike highlighted the Prime Row Machine as a standout among back machines at the gym names:
“The resistance profile is designed so it’s hardest at the stretch and easier at the contraction. That forces you to control the eccentric phase and really engage your lats.”
Takeaway: Smart machine design can improve mind-muscle connection and reduce injury risk.
Everyday Gym-Goers (Core & Back Machines)
- Back Extension Machine: Many office workers report relief from lower back pain after consistent use.
- Ab Crunch Machine: Beginners love the guided motion, which makes it easier to feel the abs working compared to floor crunches.
- Lat Pulldown Machine: A favorite for those who can’t yet do pull-ups but want to build a wide back.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Understanding gym equipment names with pictures and prices is more than just memorizing a list — it’s about building confidence in the gym, knowing which machines to use for your goals, and making smarter decisions if you’re considering buying equipment for home or commercial use.
Key Takeaways
- Gym machines names and uses help beginners navigate the gym floor without confusion.
- Upper body machines like the chest press, lat pulldown, and seated row build strength and posture.
- Core and ab machines such as the abdominal crunch and rotary torso improve stability and protect the spine.
- Lower body machines like the leg press, leg curl, and glute machine are essential for balanced strength.
- Free weights and cable machines add variety and functional strength once you’ve mastered the basics.
- Real user experiences show that even professionals rely on machines for safe, effective training.
What to Do Next
- 📥 Download a full PDF of this guide: Gym Equipment Names and Uses with Images (2025 Edition) for offline reference.
- 🛒 Check the latest prices of Ntaifitness machines if you’re considering building a home gym or upgrading your facility.
- 🏋️ Plan your workout: Use this guide to create a balanced routine that includes cardio, strength, and core training.
- 🎥 Watch demo videos: Seeing each machine in action will help you perfect your form and avoid injuries.
Final Word
Whether you’re a beginner stepping into the gym for the first time or an experienced lifter looking to refine your training, knowing the names of gym equipment with pictures empowers you to train smarter, safer, and more effectively.
Your fitness journey starts with knowledge — and now you have the complete roadmap.
FAQs About Gym Equipment Names
What are the most common gym machines for beginners?
The most common gym machines names with pictures for beginners include:
- Chest Press Machine – builds chest and triceps safely
- Lat Pulldown Machine – strengthens the back without needing pull‑ups
- Leg Press Machine – develops lower body strength without barbell squats
- Ab Crunch Machine – isolates the abs with guided motion
What are the names of gym machines for arms?
Some of the most popular arm machines at the gym names are:
- Bicep Curl Machine – isolates the biceps
- Triceps Press Machine – targets the triceps
- Cable Machine (with rope attachment) – for tricep pushdowns and bicep curls
- Preacher Curl Bench – often found in the free weight area
Which gym equipment is best for leg workouts?
The best leg workout machines names include:
- Leg Press Machine – overall leg strength
- Leg Extension Machine – quadriceps isolation
- Leg Curl Machine – hamstring development
- Glute Machine – hip extension and glute growth
- Calf Press Machine – calf strength and definition
What are the names of gym machines for the back?
Common back machines at gym names are:
- Lat Pulldown Machine – builds width
- Seated Row Machine – builds thickness
- Back Extension Machine – strengthens lower back
- Pull‑Up / Assisted Pull‑Up Machine – vertical pulling strength
What is the difference between gym machines and free weights?
- Gym Machines: Provide guided motion, safer for beginners, isolate specific muscles.
- Free Weights (dumbbells, barbells): Require more balance and coordination, engage stabilizers, allow natural movement patterns.
- Best Approach: Start with machines to learn form, then gradually add free weights for complete development.
What are the names of cardio machines in the gym?
The most common cardio gym equipment names are:
- Treadmill – walking, jogging, running
- Elliptical Machine – low‑impact full‑body cardio
- Stationary Bike – cycling indoors with adjustable resistance
- Rowing Machine – full‑body cardio and back strength
Where can I find a complete list of gym equipment names with pictures and prices?
- Right here in this guide.
- You can also download a gym equipment names and uses with images PDF from fitness suppliers like Ntaifitness for offline reference.
