I purchased this machine due to a recent back injury (herniated disc). In order to resume working out, I've had to totally redesign my exercise routine. Unfortunately, AB crunches, Deadlifts and Barbell Squats are no longer exercises that I can do, so alternatives had to be found.

This Hack Squat Machine has enabled me to resume training my legs effectively. My back is now supported on the pads, which makes this a more comfortable exercise than barbell squats. A word of caution though, more pressure is now placed on the knees! But this can be rectified by adjusting the foot plate. I would also recommend trialing different foot positions and open the hips mores on the way down to reduce the force placed on the knees. Also, don't place too much weight onto the bar while performing the exercise. I find that 2 x 15KG weight plates is currently my limit! For some sets, I place no weight plates are on the bar, the resistance of the exercise still works my leg hard.

The Leg Press exercise on this machine is also excellent. If you suffer from back problems, remember to ensure your back/bottom are not coming up from the pads while performing the exercise.
I love the fact that I can also work calves on this machine. however, I agree with others, the calf raise block is wobbly but I never feel unsafe carrying out the exercise. Overall, this is a great 3 in 1 machine that works/builds my quads/hams/glutes/calves and I no longer dread leg day! I have not experienced any back pain/injuries since using this machine.

This Hack Squat Machine took me approximately 6 hours to assemble over 2 afternoons. I took my time with it, and had my young son to assist holding sections (highly advisable!). The item arrived quickly, was packaged well, with no missing parts. Instructions are always terrible with these items but if you have put together other exercise equipment or furniture in the past, you shouldn't struggle with this. I would recommend using a good socket tool set, rather than the included tools.

The Customer Service from GAF has been excellent, they emailed me to check how I was getting on with my new purchase and offered additional support. Thank you! I Highly recommend this Force USA machine Hack Squat Machine, in my opinion it is commercial gym quality equipment at an affordable price for your home gym.

It's a good package and value for money but not perfect. 5☆ for the leg press, calf raise attachments and calf raises on leg press. Main issue is bottoming out on hack squat. myself and 3 friends (ranging from 5ft 9in to 6ft 1in) all bottomed out on this before full range. One of the main reasons for buying the unit was this version had a bigger range. Can get around it by standing on wooden blocks...just a bit trickier getting into position.
The build quality of the unit is superb. Switching between leg press and hack squat is easy and both feel smooth movements under decent loads. First class delivery time and service from G and F. A food addition to the home gym. Pity about the hack squat depth but im learning to live with it and work around it.