6 exercises
The Best 6 Specialty Equipment Exercises with Videos & Tips
Discover exercises using specialty equipment for targeted training applications. Every movement features HD video demonstrations and technique cues to help you incorporate varied training tools into your workout programming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as specialty equipment?
Specialty equipment includes training tools designed for specific purposes that standard gym equipment cannot address, such as glute-ham developer benches, reverse hyper machines, belt squat machines, and grip training devices. These tools typically target a narrow set of muscles or movement patterns with biomechanically optimized designs used in advanced training programs and rehabilitation settings.
Do I need specialty equipment to get a good workout?
No. The vast majority of your results will come from basic equipment: barbells, dumbbells, cables, and your own bodyweight. Specialty equipment addresses very specific training needs: working around injuries, targeting stubborn weak points, or adding variety after years of training with standard tools. Consider them optional upgrades rather than requirements.
Where can I find specialty equipment?
Specialty equipment is typically found in powerlifting gyms, athletic training facilities, and well-equipped commercial gyms. If your gym does not have a specific tool, most specialty exercises have free weight or cable alternatives that target the same muscles. The exercise pages in our database list alternative exercises for each movement so you can always find a substitute with the equipment you have available.
