Every machine ships unassembled with a printed manual and the basic tools you need. This guide covers what to prepare and the common steps for each category.
Before You Start
- Two people recommended for all strength machines — frames are heavy and need a second pair of hands for lifting and alignment.
- Clear an area roughly 3 m × 3 m (10 ft × 10 ft) with soft floor protection.
- Have ready: socket wrench set (metric), Allen key set, adjustable wrench, rubber mallet, spirit level, and a step ladder for tall frames.
- Open the box and check all parts against the packing list before starting.
General Assembly Steps
- Sort the parts — group bolts by size using the manual’s hardware diagram.
- Build the base first — attach feet, cross-members and stabilisers. Do not tighten fully yet.
- Stand the uprights — with two people, raise the frame and bolt the uprights to the base.
- Level the frame — use the spirit level; adjust the adjustable feet so the frame sits flat and square. This is the most important step for smooth, safe operation.
- Attach moving parts — guide rods, pulleys, cables, seats and pads, following the manual order.
- Tighten everything — start with finger-tight, then torque with the wrench; re-check after 1-2 weeks of use.
- Test before loading — run the bar/cables through full range empty, check safety stops engage, then test with light weight.
Category-Specific Tips
Smith machines
- Align both guide rods perfectly parallel before locking — a twisted frame causes binding.
- Verify the safety stops catch at every height before first use.
- Counterbalanced bar: the bar is light to start (~15 lb) — do not add plates until the travel feels smooth.
Power racks & squat stands
- Level both sides before mounting J-hooks; an unlevel rack is dangerous under load.
- Use the included shims if the floor is uneven.
Cable machines & functional trainers
- Route cables exactly as shown in the diagram — a wrong wrap causes slack or friction.
- Check pulley alignment; cables should run dead straight into each pulley.
- On dual-stack units, assemble and test one side fully before the second.
Cardio machines (treadmills, ellipticals, bikes)
- Follow the sequence in the manual — usually handlebar column first, then console.
- Do not plug in until the frame is fully assembled.
- Level the machine; most have adjustable feet.
Benches, racks & free weights
- Simplest category — typically 15-30 minutes. Still use the spirit level on benches with stands.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Fully tightening bolts before the frame is level and square.
- Missing washers or spacers — follow the hardware diagram.
- Overtightening with power tools — strip the threads and the warranty is void.
- Loading weight before testing the empty movement.
Need Help?
Email [email protected] with photos of the step you are stuck on — we reply within 1 business day, and a video call can be arranged.