This type of exercise equipment utilizes a weighted plate stack connected to a cable routed through a single pulley. Resistance is provided by the weight stack, and the cable and pulley system allow for a variety of exercises targeting different muscle groups. A common example includes an adjustable cable column found in many gyms.
Compact and versatile, this equipment offers a unique advantage: consistent resistance throughout the entire range of motion. This consistent tension facilitates muscle development and strength gains. Furthermore, the adjustability of the weight stack allows for progressive overload, a key principle in strength training. While originating from simpler pulley systems used for centuries, the modern iteration with a weight stack has become a staple in fitness centers and home gyms.