TRUE Fitness SM1000 Functional Trainer Owner's Manual and Assembly Guide
Model: SM1000
Revision: 071621
Introduction and Company Philosophy
TRUE Fitness, founded over thirty-five years ago by Frank Trulaske, is a global leader in premium fitness equipment for commercial and residential markets. The company's philosophy centers on delivering superior fitness products, service, and support, aiming for leadership in technology, innovation, performance, safety, and style. TRUE Fitness products are recognized for their durable commercial platforms and a culture of innovation, offering a full line of cardio and strength equipment. A key innovation is TRUE's patented Heart Rate Control technology, designed to deliver simple and superior performance. The company emphasizes relentless life testing of products and components, driven by dedicated employees committed to delivering the best products worldwide.
For the most up-to-date owner's manual and documents in additional languages, please visit www.truefitness.com/resources/document-library/.
Contact TRUE Fitness: www.truefitness.com | 800.426.6570 | 636.272.7100
Chapter 1: Safety Instructions
General Safety Instructions
SAVE THESE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.
Force series strength equipment is intended for commercial or institutional settings. This manual should be accessible to all personal trainers, staff members, and members.
- WARNING: All users must read all instructions before using strength equipment.
- WARNING: Over-exercising may result in serious injury or death. Stop exercising immediately if you feel faint.
- WARNING: Equipment should be taken out of use if it fails to work properly.
- TRUE strongly recommends consulting a physician before starting an exercise program, especially for individuals over 45, smokers, those with high cholesterol, obesity, or a history of high blood pressure or heart disease. Consulting a fitness professional on correct use is also recommended. Users experiencing faintness, dizziness, pain, or shortness of breath must stop immediately.
- WARNING: Facility personnel should inspect equipment daily for loose hardware, worn cables, cracked pulleys, or welds to reduce injury risk.
- WARNING: Facility personnel should provide direct supervision and knowledge about safe operation to users if potential issues are recognized.
- WARNING: Do not move equipment by lifting moving arms, plates, or adjustment handles/knobs.
- WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Visit http://oehha.ca.gov/prop65 for more information.
- WARNING: Keep equipment stable on flat ground. TRUE Fitness recommends bolting all strength equipment to the floor to prevent toppling.
- WARNING: Replace warning labels that are worn, damaged, or missing.
- WARNING: Replace any non-working or damaged components; remove the unit from service until repaired.
- WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury: Do not attempt to free jammed equipment without assistance. Do not use if the top plate or weight stack is pinned in a raised position. Do not use if the weight stack selector pin is bent or damaged. Do not place equipment in wet locations or outdoors. Do not use if dropped or damaged. Do not attempt to lift more weight than can be controlled safely.
- WARNING: Do not operate equipment covered with blankets, plastic, or anything restricting operation.
- WARNING: Risk of personal injury – crushing hazard when equipment is in operation. Keep feet, hands, and fingers away from moving parts.
Cautions
- Health-related injuries may result from incorrect or excessive use.
- Take care when getting on or off equipment.
- Seek assistance from staff or a trainer if unsure about operation.
- Modifications to equipment may void the warranty.
- Always follow posted safety instructions and warnings.
- Close supervision is necessary when used near disabled persons or children under 15.
- Do not use outdoors, near water, while wet, or in high humidity/extreme temperature changes.
- Never insert objects into openings. If an object drops inside, retrieve carefully or contact Customer Service.
- Never place liquids directly on the unit, except in accessory trays or bottle holders. Use containers with lids.
- Wear shoes with rubber or high traction soles. Avoid heels, leather soles, cleats, or spikes. Ensure no stones are embedded. Do not use bare feet. Keep clothing, shoelaces, and towels away from moving parts.
- Do not reach into or underneath the unit, or tip it during operation.
- Use correct ergonomic positioning.
- Do not allow animals on or near the equipment while in operation.
- Avoid exiting equipment while any part is still in motion.
- Do not use if you have a cold or fever.
- Follow basic precautions.
- Use equipment only for its intended purpose.
- Do not use manufacturer-unrecommended attachments.
- Allow only trained personnel to service equipment.
- Ensure bystanders are out of reach of moving parts.
- Allow only one person on the equipment at a time.
- Owners/operators are responsible for regular and scheduled maintenance.
- This appliance can be used by children aged 8+ and persons with reduced capabilities if supervised or instructed safely and they understand the hazards.
- Children shall not play with the appliance.
- Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.
- Always check equipment before use. Contact staff immediately if a problem is spotted.
- Do not drop or slam the weight stack.
- Do not use or attempt to fix broken or jammed equipment.
- Do not use equipment for support during stretching.
- Use only provided means to increase weight resistance.
- Always check that the weight selector pin is fully inserted before use.
Space Requirements
TRUE recommends a 100-inch (2.54m) safety zone on the front and sides of the unit, and a 40-inch (1.02m) safety zone behind. Additionally, sufficient room must be left for full extension of all cables in all directions. (See Fig 1 description below).
Fig 1 Description: Diagram illustrating recommended safety zones around the functional trainer, showing a 100-inch (2.54m) safety zone on the front and sides, and a 40-inch (1.02m) safety zone behind the unit. It also indicates sufficient space is needed for full cable extension in all directions.
Warning Decals
WARNING: Replace warning labels that may be worn, damaged, or missing. Contact TRUE Fitness via www.truefitness.com or customer service at 800-883-8783 to replace decals.
FORCE Weight Stack Labels: SWLAB215 (215 lb. Regular Weight Stack). Part Number: 7SM0045MD
Proper Training Position
Refer to the instructional placards on the equipment for specific exercises, targeted muscle groups, and proper training positions.
Chapter 2: Assembly Guide
Important Safety Instructions for Assembly
- Read all instructions before using the equipment.
- Do not allow children on or near the equipment.
- Use equipment only for its intended purpose.
- Do not use unrecommended accessory attachments.
- Wear proper exercise clothing and shoes.
- Use caution when entering and exiting the machine.
- Never attempt to exceed personal performance capabilities.
- Stop workout immediately and seek medical attention if pain or dizziness occurs.
- Never operate the unit if it appears damaged or not working properly.
- Only allow authorized TRUE service providers to repair the machine.
- Never drop or insert anything into any opening.
- Always inspect the unit before each use; ensure fasteners are secure.
- Keep hands, limbs, clothing, and hair away from moving parts.
- Never use the machine if it is not on a stable, level, and dry surface.
Personal Safety During Assembly
- Use manual lists to ensure all parts are included.
- Read and follow each assembly step sequentially; do not skip ahead.
- Assemble and operate on a solid, level, dry surface in an open area.
- Read instructions thoroughly before beginning.
- Assembly requires at least two people for safety and proper assembly.
- Use part numbers and descriptions when ordering; use only True Fitness replacement parts to avoid voiding warranty or causing injury/damage.
- Check all functions after assembly to ensure correct operation. Recheck instructions if problems arise; call an authorized dealer with serial number and manual if needed.
Pre-Assembly Checklist
Box One Contents:
Item No. | Description | QTY. |
---|---|---|
1 | Main Frame | 2 |
2 | Foot Frame | 2 |
3 | Support Frame | 1 |
4 | Connecting Frame | 1 |
5 | Double Pulley Bracket | 2 |
6 | Pulley Bracket w/Shaft | 2 |
7 | Left Column | 1 |
8 | Right Column | 1 |
9 | Guide Rod | 4 |
10 | Chin Up Bar | 1 |
11 | Accessory Rack Support | 1 |
12 | Hook Plate | 2 |
13 | Pulley | 2 |
14 | Pulley Cover | 4 |
15 | Cable | 2 |
16 | Accessory Rack | 1 |
17 | Cup Holder | 1 |
18 | Handle Straps | 2 |
19 | Tricep Rope | 1 |
20 | Short Bar | 1 |
21 | Long Bar | 1 |
22 | Ankle Strap | 1 |
23 | Top Plate & Selector Rod | 2 |
Hardware Pack is included in Box One.
Box Two Contents:
Item No. | Description | QTY. |
---|---|---|
1 | Rear Shroud Bracket | 4 |
2 | Middle Shroud Bracket | 4 |
3 | Front Shroud Bracket | 2 |
4 | Front Shroud A | 2 |
5 | Front Shroud B | 2 |
6 | Rear Shroud | 2 |
Weight Plate Cartons:
Weight Plates are packaged (4) per box. The shipment should contain (10) Boxes of weight plates for a total of 40 weight plates.
Unit Assembly Steps
STEP 1 Frame Assembly:
Attach each Foot Frame to each Main Frame as shown in the diagram description. Hardware: 8x Flat Washer (11x20x2), 4x Socket Head Cap Screw (M10x130), 4x Nylon Lock Nut (M10).
STEP 2 Lower Rear Shroud Brackets & Hook Plates:
Attach one Hook Plate to each Main Frame. Attach one Rear Shroud Bracket at the bottom of each Main Frame. Hardware: 8x Flat Washers (9x22x2), 4x Socket Head Cap Screw (M8x25), 4x Hexagon Socket Button Head Screw (M8x20).
STEP 3 Upper Rear Shroud Brackets & Front Shroud Brackets:
Attach one Rear Shroud Bracket at the top of each Main Frame. Install one Front Shroud Bracket on each Main Frame. Hardware: 8x Flat Washers (9x22x2), 8x Button Head Cap Screw (M8x20).
STEP 4 Support Frame & Connecting Frame:
Install the Support Frame and Connecting Frame as shown in the diagram description. Hardware: 8x Flat Washers (11x20x2), 8x Socket Head Cap Screw (M10x25).
STEP 5 Columns:
Install the Left and Right Columns as shown in the diagram description. Hardware: 12x Flat Washer (11x20x2), 4x Socket Head Cap Screw (M10x75), 2x Socket head Cap Screw (M8x85), 6x Nylon Lock Nut (M10), 2x Bumper (20x10x16).
STEP 6 Chin-Up Bar:
Install the Chin-Up Bar as shown in the diagram description. Hardware: 4x Socket head Cap Screw (M10x25), 4x Flat Washer (11x20x2).
STEP 7 Cup Holder Assembly:
Install the Cup Holder Assembly onto the Accessory Rack Support. Hardware: 2x Flat Washer (6.6x12x1.6), 4x Self-Tapping Screw (ST4.2x13), 2x Hexagon Socket Button Head Screw (M6x20), 2x Cross Recessed Countersunk Head Screw (M6x10), 2x Nylon Lock Nut (M6).
STEP 8 Double Pulley Brackets:
Install the Double Pulley Brackets. Hardware: 4x Flat Washer (9x22x2), 2x Socket Head Cap Screw (M8x100), 2x Nylon Lock Nut (M8).
STEP 9 Weight Stack Assembly:
Assemble and install the Weight Stacks, Guide Rods, Pulley Brackets, Top Plates, Weight Plates, and Selector Pins as shown in the diagram description. Hardware: 4x Rubber Weight Bumper, 8x Flat Washer (9x22x2), 4x Socket Head Cap Screw (M8x50), 4x Nylon Lock Nut (M8).
STEP 10 Cable Routing:
Route each Cable as shown in the diagram description. Verify that no more than 1 inch (25.4mm) of the threaded portion of the cable bolt is visible between the Cable Nut and the cap of the Cable Bolt. Tighten the Cable Nut against the Threaded Carriage Boss. CAUTION: A minimum of 1/2 inch (12.7mm) of the threaded portion of the cable bolt must be threaded into the Threaded Carriage Boss.
STEP 11 Pulley Covers:
Install the Pulley Covers on each side of the unit. Hardware: 2x Socket Head Cap Screw (M10x55), 2x Nylon Lock Nut (M10).
STEP 12 Shrouds:
Install the Shrouds. Hardware: 24x Flat Washer (9x22x2), 24x Hexagon Socket Button Head Screw (M8x20).
STEP 13 Handle Straps & Other Accessories:
Attach the Handle Straps using snap links (2x Snap Link). Hang additional accessories on the mounting Hooks and Hook Plates.
Chapter 3: Product Overview
Functional Trainer Overview
Diagram Description: Key components of the Functional Trainer are visible, including the Workout Handle Adjustment Lever, which allows for height adjustment of the handles, and the Weight Stack Adjustment Pins, used to select the resistance level from the weight stacks.
Chapter 4: Care & Maintenance
Care & Maintenance Overview
Preventative maintenance is crucial for function and safety. Facilities must establish written guidelines and maintain records. Always purchase replacement parts from TRUE Fitness, as they are tested and manufactured specifically for TRUE equipment. Using unapproved parts may cause injury or void the warranty.
Daily Inspection & Maintenance
These critical inspections should be performed daily before use:
- Inspect cables for wear, tension, and proper connection.
- Inspect all adjustment pins, weight stack pins, set screws, gas shocks, snap links, and pulleys.
- Inspect all safety and instructional decals.
- Inspect all weight stack shields.
- Verify rubber hand grips are intact and secure.
- Verify anti-skid foot grips are intact and secure.
- Verify the weight stack selector pin is attached with the coiled lanyard to the top plate.
Weekly Inspection & Maintenance
These inspections should be performed weekly:
- Check entire cable length and end fittings for wear; replace immediately if necessary.
- Verify at least 1/2 inch (12.7mm) of the cable bolt's threaded portion is engaged in the top plate and the nut is tight.
- Perform a function test by cycling the machine through its motion with the selector pin in the top plate, verifying smooth operation without binding. Repeat with moderate weight.
- Verify each pulley rotates freely. A stuck pulley can cause extreme cable wear or failure. Address pulley issues immediately.
- Verify adjustment pop pins retract easily and fully engage into adjustment disc holes/slots.
- Verify all hardware (nuts, bolts, fasteners) is tight and frame members are secure. Apply thread locking compound to loose bolts if necessary.
- Inspect frame for integrity and function. Replace components at the first sign of wear with TRUE-supplied parts only.
Other Scheduled Preventive Maintenance
- Monthly: Clean guide rods and lubricate with a Teflon lubricant.
- Every 6 months: Lubricate pivot bearings with lithium grease.
Cleaning the Equipment
Daily Cleaning:
Wipe all machines with a water-dampened cloth and dry completely. This includes painted parts, chrome-plated parts (except guide rods), plastic parts, and upholstered pads. Ensure parts are not left damp to prevent corrosion.
Heavy Duty Cleaning:
- Guide Rods: Clean and lubricate with Teflon Spray, coating the entire rod. Spray lubricant into cap plate bushings.
- Chromed Adjustment Tubes: Wipe away dust and dirt before applying Teflon spray lubricant (e.g., TriFlow).
- Painted Frames: For scuff marks or dirt, start with a mild soap solution or diluted Simple Green. Use car polish/cleaner for stubborn marks. Do not use solvents like lacquer thinner, mineral spirits, or acetone. Use automobile finish rubbing compound for deeper scuffs.
- Upholstery: Use a mild soap solution for most cleaning. For severe stains, use a 5-10% household bleach solution diluted with water (test an inconspicuous area first). Do not use chemical cleaners on vinyl upholstery. Lanolin-based hand cleaner can also be used. Wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
- Plastic Parts: Use a mild soap solution.
- Labels: Use a mild soap solution.
- Shrouds: Use a mild soap solution.
CAUTION: Do not use acidic cleaners, as they can weaken paint/coatings and void the warranty. Never pour or spray liquids on equipment. Allow equipment to dry completely before use.
Cable Inspection & Maintenance
Cable systems are critical and require frequent inspection. Sudden failure can cause injury. Facilities are responsible for frequent inspection. Cables wear over time, especially with frequent use.
Cable Wear:
Inspect all cables for wear, paying attention to end fittings, attachment points, and areas around pulleys/cams. If any signs of potential failure are apparent (e.g., twisted cable, broken cover, bent cable, stretched covering, dislodged crimp connector), the machine must be taken out of service immediately and repaired using only TRUE-supplied cables. Do not use cables with fittings attached by hand-crimp tools.
Diagram Description of Cable Wear Examples: Visual examples of cable wear include a twisted or zig-zag pattern, breaks or tears in the cable cover, stretched covering, and dislodged crimp connectors. A 'Good' example shows a properly intact cable.
Cable Tension:
Ensure cables are adjusted to remove slack using threaded end fittings (usually at the weight stack connection). The weight stack should lift immediately when starting an exercise. To adjust tension, loosen the cable nut at the Cable Bolt connected to the Top Plate. Tighten the cable bolt until the top plate is barely lifted off the first weight plate, then re-tighten the cable nut.
CAUTION: A minimum of 1/2 inch (12.7mm) of the cable bolt's threaded portion must be threaded into the top plate. No more than 1 inch (25.4mm) of the threaded portion should be visible.
Handle Fittings (if applicable):
Inspect cable fittings where handles attach. Ensure snap-links open and close easily and fully engage when closed. Replace snap-links as needed.
Chapter 5: Customer Service
Contacting Service
To contact service, gather the serial number, model number, and a description of the issue. Contact your selling dealer or a local service company to schedule an appointment. For dealer information, use the dealer locator on www.truefitness.com.
Alternatively, contact TRUE Fitness customer support: 800.883.8783 or service@truefitness.com (Monday-Friday, business hours).
TRUE FITNESS SERVICE DEPARTMENT
865 HOFF ROAD
ST. LOUIS, MO 63366
1.800.883.8783
HOURS OF OPERATION: 8:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. CST
E-MAIL: service@truefitness.com
Contacting Sales
For sales or product inquiries, contact TRUE Fitness:
TRUE FITNESS HOME OFFICE
865 HOFF ROAD
ST. LOUIS, MO 63366
1.800.426.6570
HOURS OF OPERATION: 8:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. CST
E-MAIL: sales@truefitness.com
Reporting Freight or Parts Damage
Follow these guidelines for damaged shipments:
- Severe Damage: If there is obvious damage to packaging or product, refuse the shipment. It will be returned to TRUE Fitness. Notify TRUE Fitness customer support (800.883.8783) or sales support (800.426.6570) that the shipment was refused. A replacement shipment will be sent. Only refuse the damaged piece if the shipment is multiple boxes.
- Slight Damage: If packaging has minimal damage and product condition is uncertain, sign the bill of lading as "damaged" upon acceptance. After opening the box and confirming damage, gather serial number, model number, description, and photos (including damaged product and box). Contact TRUE Fitness customer support (800.883.8783) or sales support (800.426.6570).
- Concealed Damage: If damage is discovered after opening an intact-looking shipment, notify the carrier immediately to file a claim. Then, gather serial number, model number, description, and photos. Contact TRUE Fitness customer support (800.883.8783) or sales support (800.426.6570).
Chapter 6: Additional Information
Commercial Limited Warranty - Force Strength Line
Save Time and Register Online! Activate Multiple Warranties at truefitness.com.
TRUE Fitness products are warranted to the original registered purchaser against manufacturing defects in workmanship and materials for specified periods from the original date of purchase:
Component | Warranty Period | Labor Warranty |
---|---|---|
Frame* | Lifetime | 1 Year |
Parts (Bearings, Bushings, Weight Plates) | 5 Years | 1 Year |
Guide Rods and Pulleys | 5 Years | 1 Year |
Cables and Belts | 1 Year | 1 Year |
Cosmetics, Coatings, Grips, Upholstery | 6 Months | 6 Months |
NOTE: Warranty valid for USA and Canada only. Failure to register the product will result in no servicing or authorization of parts. Buying after-market products from a 3rd party will void the warranty.
*Frame: Warranty covers defects in material and workmanship for the original purchaser's ownership. Labor and freight for parts shipped from TRUE are covered for one year. This does not include paint or coatings.
Cosmetics: Cosmetic parts, coatings, grips, and upholstery are warranted for six months. This limited warranty does not cover damage or failure resulting from improper assembly/installation, failure to follow instructions/warnings, accident, misuse, abuse, unauthorized modification, or failure to provide reasonable/necessary maintenance. This applies to plastic covers, shrouds, caps, badges, overlays, paint, coatings, soft step inserts, and grips.
Labor: Labor is covered for one year from purchase unless otherwise specified, provided service is performed by a TRUE authorized service provider. Service requiring over 50 miles of travel may incur additional charges. Maintenance guidelines are in the owner's manual.
Claims Procedure: Obtain TRUE Limited Warranty service by contacting the authorized TRUE dealer from whom the product was purchased. If the dealer is no longer authorized, contact TRUE directly:
TRUE Fitness, Service Department
865 Hoff Road, St. Louis, MO 63366
1.800.883.8783
Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM CST
Parts: Mechanical parts are warranted for five years with one year labor. Cables and belts are warranted for one year with one year labor. This warranty excludes damage from improper assembly, misuse, accident, unauthorized modification, or lack of maintenance.
Warranty Conditions:
- Warranty is processed only if the Warranty Registration Form is completed online or mailed within 30 days of receipt. The serial number must be intact.
- Warranty applies only while the product remains in the original purchaser's possession and is not transferable.
- Warranty is VALID ONLY if the product is initially assembled/installed by a TRUE authorized dealer/technician. Unauthorized assembly voids the warranty unless TRUE provides written authorization.
- Warranty does not cover damage or failure from improper assembly/installation, failure to follow instructions/warnings, accident, misuse, abuse, unauthorized modification, or failure to provide reasonable/necessary maintenance.
- Warranty covers repair/replacement of parts only; it does not include labor (beyond warranty period), transportation, service, return, or freight charges unless expressly specified.
- Warranty does not cover service calls to correct installation or instruct owners, or labor costs beyond the applicable labor warranty period.
- This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied. TRUE is not liable for special, indirect, incidental, secondary, or consequential losses or damages. Implied warranties are limited to the warranty period. State laws may provide additional rights.
NOTE TO AUTHORIZED WARRANTY LABOR PROVIDERS: Warranty labor reimbursement or parts rights may not be transferred without TRUE's express written consent. Jobbing out warranty labor also requires TRUE's written approval.
FORCE STRENGTH LINE SERIAL NUMBER: The Force Strength Line has one serial number on the base of the machine. Please write down your serial number below and keep for your records.
SERIAL NUMBER: [Space for Serial Number]
Keep this page for your records
Warranty Registration
Thank you for purchasing a TRUE product. To validate the warranty, register online at truefitness.com/support. Information provided will not be distributed. To mail the warranty card, complete the information below and return to TRUE Fitness within 30 days of installation.
Commercial Warranty Registration
REQUIRED FOR WARRANTY REGISTRATION: SERIAL NUMBER: [Space for Serial Number]
Model Type: [Space for Model Type]
Date of Purchase: [Space for Date]
Your Company Name: [Space for Company Name]
Contact First Name: [Space for First Name]
Contact Last Name: [Space for Last Name]
Address: [Space for Address]
City: [Space for City]
State: [Space for State]
ZIP: [Space for ZIP]
Email Address: [Space for Email]
Phone: [Space for Phone]
Website: [Space for Website]
Fax: [Space for Fax]
1. Where did you first learn about TRUE?
- [ ] a. Dealer
- [ ] b. Website
- [ ] c. Advertisement
- [ ] d. Referral
- [ ] e. Current Customer
- [ ] f. Other: _________________________
2. Why did you purchase a TRUE product?
- [ ] a. Design/Appearance
- [ ] b. Dealer Suggestion
- [ ] c. Price/Value
- [ ] d. Quality Construction
- [ ] e. Performance
- [ ] f. TRUE Reputation
- [ ] g. Other: _________________________
3. Please indicate your type of facility:
- [ ] a. Apartment/Condo
- [ ] b. Corporate Fitness Center
- [ ] c. Municipality
- [ ] d. Health Club/Gym/Spa
- [ ] e. Hotel/Resort
- [ ] f. Military Base
- [ ] g. Student Rec Center
- [ ] h. Other: _________________________
4. What other types of equipment does your company currently own?
- [ ] a. Treadmill Brand: ________________
- [ ] b. Bike Brand: ________________
- [ ] c. Elliptical Brand: ________________
- [ ] d. Free Weights/Gym Brand: ________________
5. How many people use your facility on a daily basis?
- [ ] a. <25
- [ ] b. 25-75
- [ ] c. 76-150
- [ ] d. 150+
6. Do you plan to purchase more fitness equipment in the next 6-12 months? [ ] Yes [ ] No
7. If you answered "yes" to question 6, what type do you plan to purchase?
- [ ] a. Treadmill
- [ ] b. Elliptical
- [ ] c. Stationary Bike
- [ ] d. Free Weights
- [ ] e. Gym
- [ ] f. Other: __________________
8. Would you recommend TRUE to other club owners? [ ] Yes [ ] No
9. You are a valued TRUE customer and your suggestions allow us to continually improve your experience. Is there anything else you would like us to know? Please explain:
[Space for additional comments]