I have moved across the country multiple times, and one of the most annoying things to move is all my dumbbells, kettlebells, and other random strength equipment. It also takes up a lot of space in my apartment, so more compact home fitness options are very intriguing. The Sole SRVO is a home gym that makes sense if you don’t like the price or hassle of other options.
The Sole SRVO consists of two cables, a platform, and various accessories. You can choose different packages at different prices for more or fewer accessories. We will discuss the specifics of each bundle so you can choose the right training option. Read the rest of our review for all the details on the Sole SRVO.
Sole SRVO Review: Bottom Line
Dimensions/Storability
The big appeal to most smart home gyms is that they take up a fraction of the space as a weight room. The Sole SRVO is a small floor platform 41.45″ long, 20.63″ wide, and 4.9″ tall.
It is around the size of a yoga mat.
I would factor in the dimensions plus a little extra room for exercises like lunges and planks. If you get the All-In-One Complete package, you’ll have to factor in the size of the included bench and the SRVO.
The bench is 48.6″ long, 19″ wide, and 61″ tall.
The top bar, where you can rack the barbell, folds flat against the bench. The bench also folds down, but overall, it’s a little bulkier than the SRVO itself, so keep that in mind.
Together the SRVO and bench require a small amount of floor space, especially compared to regular cable machines and weight equipment.
The SRVO is a free-standing machine that doesn’t require mounting to the wall like the Tonal. It’s similar in size to the Vitruvian Trainer+. Because it requires being plugged in, you need to use it near a wall plug.
The SRVO weighs 66 lbs. Some people can lift and carry it. It only has one handle, though, so it’s a little awkward to pick up. The easiest way for most people to move it is to lift one end with the handle to engage the two transport wheels on the other side and wheel the SRVO around.
Onboard Workouts & Apps
Most smart home equipment, such as treadmills, exercise bikes, rowers, and home gyms, comes with training content. Many brands offer a subscription training platform or app. These workouts are commonly led by instructors in a studio fitness class format.
The Sole SRVO is Bluetooth-enabled to connect to the Sole+ App. Here is what you can expect from the app.
Sole+ App
You’ll just need your phone to connect to the SRVO through Bluetooth to the Sole+ App. There is also a QR code on the side of the SRVO to connect to the app. What’s nice about the Sole+ App is that it’s free to Sole equipment owners. The Sole+ App isn’t required to use the SRVO, but it’s helpful for guidance on all the exercises you can do on this machine.
In the app, there are trainer-led workouts specific to the SRVO. An instructor guides you through a workout on the SRVO, which is filmed in an indoor studio. These workouts are nice if you like following an instructor and need extra guidance.
Along with watching the instructor and listening to their cues, the app tracks your weight (per side) and counts your reps per set. You can also select which of the three modes you want to train with. (More on this later.)
Closed captions are available if you want to mute the instructor and the music that plays with each class. Each class has a training focus and a preselected playlist of music. The classes are 20 and 30 minutes long, depending on the one you choose to do.
There are a decent number of Sole SRVO trainer-led workout videos. The app also offers treadmill, exercise bike, elliptical, rowing, and mat classes like stretching and yoga. All of the workouts are on-demand, and new ones are added fairly regularly.
There are also workout programs designed for different sports, such as football, soccer, and racketball, and programs with specific focuses, like shoulder and glute workouts. These consist of specific exercises to complete for a certain number of sets and reps per set. You can customize the weight for each exercise and the time between sets and segments.
You can also create workouts. Under the “Training” tab, under “Exercises,” you’ll find a complete list of all the exercises you can do on the Sole SRVO. There are over 150. The name of the exercise next to a graphic of a person demonstrating the exercise on the SRVO is shown. This format is a lot like Vitruvian’s in their training app.
The Sole+ App keeps track of your workouts and tracks your weight loaded and reps in each workout. You can also change the weight loaded on the machine in the app. With the library of classes and many exercises available, you can filter and use a search bar in the app to help narrow down which class and/or exercises you want to do on the SRVO with the app.
For an app that is available to use for free with the SRVO, I’m impressed with everything it has to offer. I also really like that it is completely optional. You can control the machine using the console if you prefer not to use the app on your phone.
Console
The console on the Sole SRVO is a small display with a dial/button to adjust the weight and training mode. It displays which of the three modes you’re in (more on this in a moment), the amount of weight (per cable), and the number of reps performed.
Motorized Weight
The weight is motorized and adjustable to lift you up to 264 lbs (132 lbs per cable). It resembles smart home gyms that use cables, like the Vitruvian. The SRVO doesn’t let you lift as much weight as the Vitruvian, so keep this in mind if you want to lift 250+ lbs.
As with machines like this, it’s different than using free weights. It might take some getting used to. It might not be best for you if you prefer using free weights. It can feel a little jerky in some of the modes and safety settings and in some exercises like presses.
If you have limited space, though, and want an all-in-one machine, the SRVO is a smart home gym to consider.
The weight can be adjusted in 1 lb increments, which I really like. This way, you have a wide range of weights to work with and the ability to add or subtract pounds as needed.
It’s easy to adjust the weight using the console dial.
When the number on the display is flashing, you can add or subtract weight by turning the dial. Once the weight is set, press the middle of the dial to start lifting and load the weight.
The number displayed is the amount of weight per cable.
It goes from 4 lbs up to 132 lbs. The dial is really easy to use. There is also a voice and noise that indicates when the weight is loaded. You can turn down the volume in the Sole+ App, but it can’t be muted completely. It’s kind of annoying because it is pretty loud. I think Sole has included this for safety, though. This way, you know when the weight is loaded and unloaded.
Safety Features
Sole has more safety features. The Resistance Stop Point feature allows you to pull each cable to the bottom portion of your rep. This way, if you’re doing a bench press, the weight will only be loaded for your range of motion in the exercise. If you’re using the barbell, you’ll set the weight to stop if the barbell drops below the lowest part of your press to avoid being crushed.
The Static feature unloads all the weight if the cable is placed in the same position for 10 seconds. So, if you’re struggling to press that bar back up, the weight will automatically unload. You can select a time other than 10 seconds in the Sole+ App.
The Dump feature (Tilt feature) unloads the weight and retracts the cables if one cable is pulled further out than the other. You must turn this feature off in the Sole+ App to do unilateral exercises.
The Drop feature allows you to drop whichever attachment you use (more on these later) if you struggle to complete your rep. This takes off the weight and keeps it off for about 10 seconds. After 10 seconds, the cables retract using the lowest resistance, which is 4 lbs per side.
These safety features are nice and necessary. When lifting heavy weights, especially by yourself, it’s important that machines have built-in features to help prevent injuries. Although the safety features and weight aren’t adaptive like the Vitruvian, these safety features help.
Training Modes
The SRVO has three different training modes. These modes control how the weight is applied and distributed throughout the entire range of each rep. The standard mode is what you would expect. The same amount of weight is distributed throughout the entire range of the exercise. This is the mode that I prefer to use the most. It’s most similar to using free weights.
The next mode is eccentric. In this mode, the weight is applied only during the eccentric portion of the exercise. So, in a squat, when you lower to the ground, you’ll feel the max weight, and then the weight lightens the last part of the exercise when you rise out of the squat. This mode seems very similar to the Vitruvian’s eccentric-only training mode.
The isokinetic mode keeps your muscles engaged throughout the entire range of motion. You can choose between fast or slow mode. In the fast mode, you want to perform quick-controlled reps to keep the weight loaded at the set max. When you slow down, the weight is lightened. In the slow mode, you want to keep your pace slow and consistent to keep the weight loaded.
These modes let you use the weight differently depending on your training goals.
Build Quality
All of the hardware is of really nice quality. The SRVO doesn’t look as sleek as the Vitruvian; it doesn’t have the light, but considering it is about $1000 less, it is well-built and feels nice.
Being from Sole, we expected the SRVO to have high-quality construction, and it does.
The Sole SRVO is currently $2000 for the All-In-One Trainer. The complete All-In-One Trainer is $2500; it comes with the bench and a few more attachments that I’ll get into below. The SRVO is pricy but a little more affordable than other smart home gyms like the Tonal and Vitruvian Trainer+. It might be more realistic if you’re trying to save money on a complete home gym.
The SRVO can support up to 330 lbs. Considering this is a machine on which you stand, kneel, lay, plank, and squat, I’m glad it can handle a good amount of user weight. The bench also feels very sturdy underneath you.
Frame
The frame is solid and planted firmly on the floor. We’re unsure if it’s made from carbon fiber like the Vitruvian. I mentioned that it doesn’t look as sleek, but for a more budget-friendly option, the SRVO is well-made. It has a mat that fits on top to keep the SRVO from getting dirty or scratched from your shoes.
Note: You must be on the platform, whether just one foot or arms when lifting; otherwise, the SRVO will move once you pull the cables. It is meant to be stood, knelt, or planked on to keep it in place.
The pieces that the carabiner clips attach to the cables on each side are made out of plastic.
This doesn’t affect the overall quality and stability, even when a heavy weight is loaded. The cables are strong, and the carabiners are easy to swap out for the different attachments.
Servomotors
The Sole SRVO gets its name from the two commercial-grade servomotors built in. These motors work to give you resistance and up to 264 lbs of weight to pull against. The vents on the sides of the SRVO platform help prevent the motors from overheating.
These motors control the resistance. The SRVO isn’t loud, besides the voice system that lets you know when the weight is loaded and unloaded. A future upgrade that eliminates the voice or allows it to be muted would be nice. I think a small beep with an adjustable volume could be used in place of the voice.
Accessories
The SRVO is available in two different options and can be used for raises, presses, squats, lunges, planks, and more.
With the different accessories available to purchase with the SRVO, you can perform a lot of exercises.
Sole SRVO All-In-One Trainer
When you purchase the cheaper package, the Sole SRVO All-In-One Trainer, you get the SRVO Trainer, mat, bar, handles, ankle straps, and belt. The bar is metal and knurled like a barbell. The knurling even has marks so you can evenly space your hands.
The barbell has a button to adjust the weight, which helps set the Resistance Stop feature and exercises when you’re lying on the bench, unable to reach the dial on the console. It is just a button, so you’ll need to use the dial beforehand to set specific weights.
The two handles are also metal and knurled like traditional dumbbells. I like the barbell and handles. The knurling is nice to help you keep a good grip, and the metal construction makes them feel durable.
The ankle straps are velcro, as is the belt so they’re easy to adjust to fit them to your body.
They also have metal rings to clip the carabiners to, like the handles and bar. Overall, these attachments are of really nice quality and should last.
SRVO All-In-One Complete Trainer
The SRVO All-In-One Complete is the more expensive option. It comes with all the accessories that are included in the other package, including the rope, short bar, safety cables, and an adjustable bench.
The bench adjusts to incline to 4 different positions. It is designed to be placed over the SRVO, with each floor stabilizer on either side of the machine. It has adjustable leveling feet, so you can plant it on the floor.
A large metal piece attached to the bench extends upright at the back of the bench, like a squat rack.
There are hooks to hold the barbell when you’re ready to bench press or bench squat.
The bench isn’t my favorite. It’s comfortable with nice padding, and it is helpful that it adjusts to incline and lies flat, but it’s bulky.
The only function the squat rack extension of the bench is good for is holding the weight before you begin your set. It doesn’t allow you to do pull-down exercises like other cable machines. All the workouts involve pulling up on the cables, which can limit you if you want to do tricep pull-downs.
Overall, though, the Sole SRVO is a nice smart home gym for its price. It allows you to do many exercises.
Warranty
Sole includes a 1-year warranty for the SRVO and a 90-day warranty for the accessories.
Should You Buy the Sole SRVO?
The Sole SRVO is a strength training machine that allows you to lift weights in a small space. It is compact and can be stored under a bed or couch. The dual servomotors provide motorized, adjustable weight up to 264 lbs, so most people can lift a lot of weight using this machine. The SRVO is a free-standing platform that allows you to perform over 150 exercises.
Although the max weight might not be enough for seasoned weight lifters, the Sole SRVO is an excellent home gym alternative for those with limited space, as well as beginner and intermediate lifters.
It isn’t quite the same quality as smart home gyms like the Vitruvian Trainer+ and Tonal, but considering its lower price, the SRVO is more budget-friendly. I appreciate the Sole+ App’s guided video workouts and workout customization. The app is completely optional, and you can adjust the weight with the dial on the SRVO or in the app, making it very uncomplicated.
The bench is nice to have for some exercises. It takes up extra space, though, so keep this in mind. Whether you go with the All-In-One Trainer package or the All-In-One Complete Trainer package, you’re getting a well-made machine that can replace most equipment in a weight room.
Sole SRVO Q&A / FAQ
How does the Sole SRVO compare to the Vitruvian Trainer+?
The Sole SRVO is less expensive than the Vitruvian. However, it isn’t as sleek, and the weight isn’t adaptive to your weight. The SRVO only supports 264 lbs of weight with both cables versus the Vitruvian’s 440 lb max. The SRVO is easy to use with or without the free Sole+ App.
If you don’t need to lift as much weight and are looking to save a little bit, the SRVO is a good option. If you want the best, I would go with the Vitruvian Trainer+.
What is the weight limit on the Sole SRVO?
The SRVO handles up to 330 lbs.
Is our Sole SRVO review a paid review?
We were not paid to create this review of the Sole SRVO. Sole sends us their equipment to test, and we have affiliate links. If you purchase through one of our links, we earn a commission. Along with Sole, we work with all kinds of brands. This allows us to test all kinds of equipment so when we recommend the best, we know it’s the best because we’ve spent time using it.
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