VERVE Makoto Commercial Series Review: Full Strength Circuit Tested (2026)

The VERVE Makoto Commercial Series is the best-value commercial pin-loaded strength circuit available in Australia in 2026. After testing all 15 machines in the range across multiple gym fitouts, our verdict is 9/10 — outstanding build quality, smooth cam-driven resistance curves, and competitive pricing at $3,699–$5,999 per machine that undercuts Life Fitness Signature and Technogym Selection by 30–60%. The main trade-offs are the weight of the machines (they are heavy to move once placed), no connected fitness or digital tracking, and limited upholstery colour options. For any independent gym owner building a commercial strength floor in Australia, the Makoto series should be your starting point.

Full Range Overview: Every Machine in the Makoto Series

The VERVE Makoto Commercial Series comprises 12 pin-loaded machines and 3 plate-loaded machines. Here is the complete lineup with pricing:

What We Like and What We Don’t

This is an honest review. We have tested these machines extensively across commercial gym fitouts and want to give you the full picture — the good and the bad.

Top 5 Machine Highlights

1. Chest Press — The Entry Point at $4,599

The most affordable machine in the Makoto range and the one every gym should buy first. The converging press arms follow the natural arc of a chest pressing movement, and the seat height adjusts easily to accommodate users from 150 cm to 200 cm. Weight stack is smooth through the full range with no dead spots. At $4,599, this is exceptional value for a commercial-grade chest press — competing machines from Life Fitness and Technogym start at $7,000+. The only thing we would improve is adding a small storage tray for phones or water bottles, but that is a minor quibble.

2. Pulldown / Seated Row — Two Machines in One

This is arguably the best value machine in the entire range. A combined lat pulldown and seated row in a single footprint means you save $5,000–$8,000 versus buying two separate machines from premium brands. The pulldown movement is smooth with a high cable origin point that keeps the resistance angle correct throughout. Switching to seated row mode is straightforward — adjust the seat and swap the handle attachment. The thigh pad holds firm during heavy pulldowns with no creeping. An outstanding piece of equipment for any gym where floor space is at a premium.

3. Seated Leg Press — Built for Heavy Use

The seated leg press gets the heaviest use of any lower body machine in a commercial gym, so build quality here is critical. The Makoto version delivers. The foot platform is wide and textured with enough surface area for varied foot positions — high for glute emphasis, low for quad isolation. The weight stack is heavy enough for experienced lifters (100 kg+) while the pin system makes it approachable for beginners. The seat angle and back pad support are well designed, allowing a deep range of motion without putting excessive load on the knees or lower back. This machine will handle thousands of reps per week without complaint.

4. Pec Fly / Rear Delt — The Isolation Specialist

Another dual-function winner. The pec fly provides deep chest isolation with constant tension through the full arc — something the chest press cannot replicate. Flip the arms around for rear delt work and you have a machine that addresses one of the most undertrained muscle groups in the general gym population. The pivoting arm mechanism maintains smooth tension throughout and the starting position is adjustable for different flexibility levels. At $5,299, you are getting two premium isolation movements in one machine. The transition between modes takes about five seconds.

5. Plate Loaded Hack Squat — The Standout Bargain

At $3,699, this is the most affordable machine in the entire Makoto series and a genuine standout. The hack squat is one of the most popular machines in any serious gym — it allows deep squatting with back support, targeting the quads intensely without the spinal loading of a barbell squat. The sled runs on linear bearings that are smooth and quiet. The shoulder pads are well cushioned and the foot platform angle is comfortable for deep reps. Plate storage horns are integrated into the frame. Competing hack squats from premium brands start at $6,000–$10,000, making this nearly half price for comparable commercial-grade quality.

Build Your Circuit: 3 Tiers

Not every gym needs all 15 machines on day one. Here are three circuit tiers to match your budget and floor space, all using VERVE Makoto machines:

Tier 1: Starter Circuit — 5 Machines (~$27,895)

The essentials for a new or small gym. Covers every major movement pattern with one machine per muscle group.

Tier 2: Standard Circuit — 8 Machines (~$45,892)

The sweet spot for most commercial gyms. Adds arm isolation, leg isolation, and abdominal training to cover member demand more completely.

Tier 3: Full Circuit — 12+ Machines (~$68,888+)

The complete Makoto pin-loaded floor. Every muscle group covered with dedicated machines, plus options to add plate-loaded pieces for serious lifters.

How the Makoto Series Compares: VERVE vs Life Fitness vs Technogym

The two most common alternatives gym owners consider alongside the Makoto series are Life Fitness Signature and Technogym Selection. Here is how they stack up:

Frequently Asked Questions