Best Total Gyms & Alternatives
TOP 15 Best Total Gyms & Alternatives 2022 + Workouts & FAQs

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Are you interested in a Total Gym but can’t decide which one to get?

Chuck Norris and Christy Brinkley make the Total Gym look so good, and that’s because the brand is solid, with a 30-year history and countless loyal fans, including Chuck.

So what’s the problem?

Truthfully, there are too many models out there to choose from!

But not to worry, we have laid it all out right here. We will go over the difference between models, plus a few similar competitors’ models so you can see them side by side.

We are going to start with the reviews of the best Total Gyms and then go into our Total Gym Guide. Let’s go!

What to consider when buying a Total Gym

  • Price: Price is always going to be a consideration when making any sort of purchase. When it comes to total gyms, you want to make sure that you are getting something that is affordable but not too cheap, especially if you are planning on using it often. If you are on a tighter budget, rather safe on unnecessary features than on quality.
  • User Reviews and Scores: Checking user reviews can give you a good idea of what others think of the product and if it is worth the price. It’s the best way to make sure that the model you chose is durable and functional.
  • Weight capacity: Weight capacity is always and important factor to consider when buying new workout equipment, especially if you are on the heavier side or want to be using heavier weights.
  • Size: Size is another factor to consider, especially if you have limited space in your home. You want to make sure that the total gym you choose will be able to fit comfortably in the space you have.
  • Versatility: Versatility is also something to consider, as some total gyms offer more than others. Make sure that the model you choose to buy offers the resistance levels you need, as well as all the accessories and extensions you need to hit all desied muscle groups.

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This is how we select and evaluate products on GGP

In this article, we review a number of popular products that we have found using in-depth research and analysis work. The products you find in the article are sold by one or more of our partners. Although these partnerships may influence the range of products in the article, our recommendations are based on an overall assessment of the product.

We evaluate and compare products in the article based on:

    1
  • Official and impartial product tests
  • 2
  • Customer reviews and opinions about the product
  • 3
  • Data on user behavior and preferences
  • 4
  • Specifications, characteristics, and disadvantages of the product
  • 5
  • Guarantees, service, and reputation of the dealer

Apart from that, we compare the price and quality of each product and deliver our subjective assessments and recommendations to our readers. The position of the product in the list does not necessarily reflect its quality, as all the products we review are picked as the best choice for certain users.

Best Overall

Total Gym APEX G3- Best Overall Total Gym

The APEX G3 total gym is a fantastic way to get a full-body workout at home. For everyone, at any age or fitness level, this multi-purpose piece of equipment will provide unrivaled strength and cardio full-body exercise.

  • Low impact, fluid movements
  • For all fitness levels ages 8-80
  • Includes lots of accessories
Total Gym APEX G3 Versatile Indoor Home Gym Workout Total Body Strength Training Fitness Equipment with 8 Levels of Resistance and Attachments
  • Various Workout Options: Start your at-home workout with 8 resistance levels and over 70 exercises using Total Gym; Enjoy low-impact, fluid movements, effortlessly transitioning between exercises
  • Speedy Training: Sending 15 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 days a week on your home gym can make a difference; Suitable for all fitness levels, ages 8 to 80, this system supports maximum weight of 300 pounds
  • Total Physique Method: Tones, strengthens, and conditions muscles for a total body exercise experience; Assists with body sculpting, weight loss, energy, and more
  • Accessories Provided: Includes an instruction manual, DVD, wing attachment, squat stand, leg pull accessory, dip bars, exercise flip chart, and access to Total Gym TV
  • Product Details: Glide board on a quality steel frame with auto-lock height adjustment folds easily for storage; When in use, the equipment measures 93 in length, 43.25 tall, and 15.5 wide in inches
 Total Gym APEX G3
Versatility

89

Affordability

91

Sturdiness

92

Compactness

92

User Rating

94

Garage Gym Power's Takeaway

The Total Gym APEX G3 is a great total gym that offers a lot of features and versatility for most people, which makes it our Best Overall Total Gym. Although it might not be as sturdy as the more expensive total gyms such as the Fit, it still offers great value for the price considering the variety of accessories and attachments it comes with. We would highly recommend this product to anyone looking for an affordable way to get a total gym workout at home.

Pros and cons for Total Gym APEX G3

Pros

  • Features 8 levels of resistance and a multitude of attachments
  • Folds for easy storage and arrives fully assembled and ready to use
  • Allows for over 70 exercises and limitless workouts
  • Padded rolling glideboard

Cons

  • Not as sturdy as the Total Gym Fit, but a lot more affordable

What you need to know about the Total Gym APEX G3

The Total Gym APEX G3 is a total gym that offers a variety of workouts to suit most needs. It has a weight capacity of 300 lbs, which is pretty average for that type of equipment, making it sturdy enough for most users. The levels of resistance can be adjusted (8 in total) to match your strength, and the incline can also be altered to increase or decrease the difficulty level.

This total gym also comes with a squat stand, dip bars, wing attachment, and leg pull accessory. These add-ons make it more versatile and allow you to perform a greater variety of exercises, targeting both your upper and lower body muscles. It has a total gym TV that gives you 24/7 access to streaming workouts., which is a great feature if you want to stay motivated and have access to a variety of workout routines.

On top of that, it’s also weight bar compatible, so you can use it with other weightlifting equipment. It’s quite affordable too, making it a great value for the features and quality it offers.

User Ratings and Reviews

The vast majority of users who left a review said that they were satisfied with the product and would recommend it to others. It has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5, which is quite impressive. Most people praise the APEX G3 for the range of motion it provides, as well as its versatility and ease of use. A few users did mention some negative points, such as the total gym being difficult to assemble, but overall, users seemed to be happy with their purchase and would recommend it.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Levels of Resistance: 8
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Weight: 53.2 lbs
Premium Choice

Total Gym XLS- Classic Chuck Norris & Christie Brinkley Total Body Fitness Machine

The Total Gym XLS is a top-of-the-line all-in-one piece of home gym equipment. It’s the classic Chuck Norris and Christie Brinkley sworn total gym as seen on TV.

 

  • 6 levels of resistance, 80+ exercises
  • Quality steel frame construction
  • Padded glideboard with pillow headrest
Total Gym XLS
  • As Seen on TV with Chuck Norris & Christie Brinkley
  • Resistance training with 6 levels
  • 400 lb weight capacity for total strength and stability
  • Padded glideboard with head support
  • Exercise capability - over 80 exercises
Total Gym XLS
Versatility

91

Affordability

68

Sturdiness

99

Compactness

87

User Rating

94

Garage Gym Power's Takeaway

The XLS is probably the best total gym out there! It offers a wide variety of exercises – be it cardio or weight training – and is sturdy enough to handle people of up to 400 lbs, which is way more than the market average. It comes with tons of attachments, so you can target each muscle group individually, but also with instructions and workout programs to ensure you get the best results possible. It would have been great if the programs were available via app and not just on a DVD, but other than that (and the higher price range) it’s hard to find any real drawbacks of the machine itself – that’s what makes it our premium choice.

Pros and cons for Total Gym XLS

Pros

  • 400 lb weight capacity.
  • 6 levels of resistance.
  • Includes squat stand, wing attachment and leg pull accessory.

Cons

  • All workouts are printed or on DVD. Wish there was an app with all this info instead.

What you need to know about the Total Gym XLS

The Total Gym XLS is a high-end, standup workout machine. It gives you the complete body workout experience by exercising your arms and legs in both seated and standing positions. Unlike some other models out there which only offer a bench for vertical pushups, the Total Gym XLS offers a squat stand so that users have an easy way to get in and out of the machine.

The wing attachment is great for working your triceps, biceps, and other muscles in your arms. The leg pull accessory is perfect for working your quads, hamstrings, and glutes. You also get access to the Total Gym TV which is a streaming service that offers you 24/7 access to workout videos. The machine is compatible with weight bars, making it a great option for people who want to add some extra resistance to their workout.

The Total Gym XLS is a great choice for people who are looking for a top-of-the-line workout machine that will give them a complete body workout. It is priced at the higher end of the spectrum but it is worth the investment for people who are serious about getting in shape.

User Ratings and Reviews

The vast majority of reviewers seem to be very happy with their purchase, finding the Total Gym XLS to be a helpful and effective piece of equipment. It’s highly rated for its stability and versatility. However, there are a few complaints about the quality of the materials used and some issues with customer service. Overall, though, it seems that most users are very pleased with the Total Gym XLS.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Levels of Resistance: 6
  • Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
  • Weight: 93.4 lbs
Editor's Choice

Total Gym APEX G5- Commercial Quality Total Gym

If you are looking for a commercial quality workout experience for your home gym, then the APEX G5 might be just the right Total Gym for you.

  • 10 levels of resistance and 80+ exercises
  • Tones, strengthens, and conditions muscles
  • Compact, yet highly durable
Sale
Total Gym APEX Versatile Indoor Home Gym Workout Total Body Strength Training Fitness Equipment with Levels of Resistance and Attachments
  • Variety of Workouts: Workout machine lets you start a workout program at home with 10 adjustable levels of resistance and 80 plus exercises with low impact and fluid movements
  • Total Body Method: Uses total body workout or targets specific upper or lower body muscle groups, including chest, back, shoulders, legs, arms, and abs, with weight training equipment that folds easily
  • Accessories Included: Features a cable pulley system with embroidered nylon handles, padded rolling glide board, plus pillow headrest and features auto-lock height adjustment
  • Quick Workouts: Just 15 to 20 minutes a day, 3 to 4 days a week at your home gym will make a difference; For all fitness levels ages 8-80; Supports a maximum weight of 375 pounds
  • Exercise Machine Specifications: Measures 93 inches long, 15.5 inches wide, and 8 inches tall; Suitable for cardio, strength, stretching, pilates, circuit training, and more
Total Gym APEX G5
Versatility

95

Affordability

75

Sturdiness

93

Compactness

94

User Rating

94

Garage Gym Power's Takeaway

The G5 is our favorite on today’s list, simply because it balances features and affordability amazingly well. This sturdy piece of equipment can handle a larger load than most, while still being quite compact and movable. It also offers more resistance levels compared to even our premium choice, which costs twice as much. On top of that, you of course get access to the Total Gym workout plans, as well as tons of accessories. Compared to other cheaper models – the Total Gym APEX G5 is clearly a step above which makes it our Editor’s Choice.

Pros and cons for Total Gym APEX G5

Pros

  • comes with a variety of attachments and accessories
  • pillow headrest for extra comfort
  • comes with two stability mats for both ends of the gym
  • Support Materials: Start It Up DVD, Exercise Guide, Nutrition Guide, Owner’s Manual

Cons

  • setup instructions could be more detailed

What you need to know about the Total Gym APEX G5

The Total Gym APEX G5 takes up little room in your house, yet provides you with a full line of equipment to give you the best workout possible. This includes a squat stand, dip bars, wing attachment, leg pull accessory, and 2 stability mats.

The APEX G5 also comes with the total gym TV – 24/7 access to streaming workouts, as do all Total Gyms. It’s also weight bar compatible like most models, to give you more options for a great workout.

The Total Gym APEX G5 has a weight capacity of 375 lbs and 10 levels of resistance, making it one of the most durable and versatile products on the market. And at 87 lbs, it’s also one of the heaviest, so you can be sure it won’t tip over or move around when you’re working out. Its price tag is a bit higher, but it’s still quite affordable and keep in mind that you are investing in quality too.

User Ratings and Reviews

Our analysis of the reviews shows that users are generally happy with the Total Gym APEX G5. The machine is praised for its build quality, durability, and ease of use. A few reviewers mention that the machine is a bit on the heavy side, making it harder to move, but this is outweighed by the positives. Overall, users would recommend the machine to others.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Levels of Resistance: 10
  • Weight Capacity: 375 lbs
  • Weight: 87 lbs

Total Gym XL7 Home Gym

The Total Gym XL7 is a mid-range Total Gym with quite a few accessories. It includes the wing bar, ab crunch, press up bar, dip bar, leg pull and squat stand.

For all that it has, it is offered at a fair price and would make an excellent addition to your home gym.

Total Gym XL7 Home Gym

Pros and cons for Total Gym XL7 Home Gym

Pros

  • 350 lb user weight limit.
  • 6 accessories included.
  • A great value.

Cons

  • Not for folks over 6 feet tall.

More about Total Gym XL7 Home Gym

This is one of the best Total Gym machines in terms of its price compared to what it includes.

GR8FLEX Total Performance Gym

The GR8FLEX is my favorite Total Gym alternative. The GR8FLEX boasts over 140 different exercises, has all the attachments you could want, hold users up to a whopping 450 lbs, and this machine has something the Total Gym does not have but everyone asks for – a Fitness app!

GR8FLEX High Performance Gym with Total Over 100 Workout Exercises (Military Model)
  • Lifetime warranty for registered owners on the entire machine including all parts and accessories
  • All accessories and kits included are: wing bar, dip bars, leg harness/pulley system, cellphone holder/stand, EZ curl bar, crunch ab accessory, soft grip handles, extra large squat stand, resistance bands, and mats to protect carpet/floor.
  • 15 different resistance levels plus additional 10 lb, 15 lb, 20 lb, 25 lb, 30 lb, 35 lb, 40 lb, or 50 lb with the resistance bands on top of your resistance level.
  • Perform gym quality exercises on total stylish GR8FLEX designed home gym
  • No assembly required and enjoy the workout efficiently
GR8FLEX Total Performance Gym

Pros and cons for GR8FLEX Total Performance Gym

Pros

  • Combo of body weight & resistance bands for max muscle-building resistance.
  • 450 lb capacity.
  • Many accessories included to create 140 different exercises.

Cons

  • Challenging to fold up – and heavy too.

More about GR8FLEX Total Performance Gym

Plus it has an added 50 lbs of resistance, thanks to the hearty resistance bands that allow you to customize how hard you work.

Accessories include leg pull, EZ curl bar, AB crunch, squat stand, dip bar and wing bar.

Best Total Gym type machine, with so many extras.

Total Gym X-Force

The Total Gym X Force is probably the best Total Gym model in terms of value. For its price it includes a lot.

The Tri grip shaper bar allows you to use three different handhold positions to uniquely target muscles.

Plus the X-Force includes the squat stand, ab crunch and leg pull accessories, and the dip bars and with attachment.

Total Gym XL7 Home Gym
  • 60+ Exercises No assembly required
  • Material type: Blend
  • Unisex-adult
  • Colour:Black/Red
Total Gym X-Force

Pros and cons for Total Gym X-Force

Pros

  • 350 lb weight limit.
  • A ton of included accessories.
  • Really accessible price.

Cons

  • Machine is challenging to fold.

More about Total Gym X-Force

Biggest bang for your buck Total Gym.

Total Gym 1400 Deluxe

The Total Gym 1400 Deluxe is a great starter model. Unlike the Total Gym 1100, this model includes the squat stand, yet it is still one of the lower-priced Total Gyms available.

It uses your own bodyweight and has 8 different angles, and hence 8 different resistance levels, to accommodate your fitness level.

SINAILA Total Gym 1400 Deluxe Home Fitness Exercise Machine Equipment with Workout DVD
  • Strengthens and tones multiple major muscle groups simultaneously
  • Delivers a total body workout in only 10-20 minutes
  • Over 60 different exercises - cardio, strength training & stretch all on 1 machine
  • Accommodates beginner to advanced fitness levels - ages 8 to 80
  • Arrives fully assembled & folds for easy storage
Total Gym 1400 Deluxe

Pros and cons for Total Gym 1400 Deluxe

Pros

  • Great price.
  • 8 resistance levels.
  • Includes squat stand.

Cons

  • Challenging to fold.
  • Only holds up to 250 lb riders.

More about Total Gym 1400 Deluxe

A great price for a Total Gym with a squat stand. The best Total Gym for the money!

Weider Ultimate Body Works

When comparing Total Gym vs Weider, this Weider Ultimate Body Works holds its own against the Total Gym.

This machine offers 50 different exercises, all outlined on the included exercise chart. This system, like the total body, uses your body weight as resistance.

But what sets this machine apart are the cables, which allow you to add up to 50 lbs of additional resistance when you need more challenge.

Weider Ultimate Body Works Black/Red, Standard
  • Dimensions: 59" L x 27.5" W x 48" H
  • Max. Weight capacity: 250 pounds
  • Cushion material: Foam
  • Cable-and-pulley system allows for greater versatility and an expanded range of motion
  • This item benefits from an Extended 90 Day Return Window
Weider Ultimate Body Works

Pros and cons for Weider Ultimate Body Works

Pros

  • Bodyweight resistance plus an added 50 lbs of resistance band resistance, when needed
  • Built-in squat stand.
  • Way less expensive than Total Gym machines.

Cons

  • 250 lb weight limit is a little low and excludes some riders.

More about Weider Ultimate Body Works

The less expensive, brand name, Total Gym alternative is this Weider Ultimate Body Works

Weider makes some quality gym equipment. If you want to see more from Weider, check out these Weider gym equipment reviews.

Total Gym 1900

The Total Gym 1900 comes complete with a leg pull and ab crunch accessory, dip bars, press up bars, wing attachment stability mats and a flip chart to display the 60 exercises available with this machine.

The standout feature, the Pilates toe bar for toe bar squats, kneeling planks, hip rolls and more. The Pilates toe bar allows you to extend your feet more than the squat pad found on most Total Gyms.

Total Gym 1900
  • Strengthens and tones multiple major muscle groups simultaneously
  • Delivers a total body workout in only 10-20 minutes
  • Over 60 different exercises - cardio, strength training and stretch all on 1 machine
  • 12 calibrated levels allow for 3-45% body weight resistance
  • Accommodates beginner to advanced fitness levels - ages 8 to 80
Total Gym 1900

Pros and cons for Total Gym 1900

Pros

  • Includes Pilates toe bar.
  • Includes ab crunch and leg pull accessory.
  • Holds up to 350 lbs.

Cons

  • No squat pad.

More about Total Gym 1900

The Total gym with Pilates toe bar included

The Total Gym 1900 has a Pilates toe bar, and allows you to perform some Pilates style exercises, but nothing is like the real thing.

Are you are considering a Pilates reformer? We have reviewed the best Pilates reformers here.

Force Total Gym

Force Total Gym is the Total Gym with all the attachments you need to build a strong sculpted body.

The Force model includes dip and press bars, leg pull and squat stand, plus ab crunch and wing attachments for working your core.

Force Total Gym

Pros and cons for Force Total Gym

Pros

  • Lots of attachments.
  • 12 levels of resistance.
  • Includes stability mat.

Cons

  • With so many attachments, there is a bit of a learning curve getting to know this mac

More about Force Total Gym

The total body machine with a great price and lots of included accessories.

Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym

The Weider Total Body 5000 offers an intense workout with over 100 exercises available, plus it incorporates your body weight and an additional 50 lbs of cable resistance to allow you to build muscle.

It includes a squat stand and has an innovative space-saving design that allows you to fold the unit flat and store it under a bed.

Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym
  • Full-body gym offers over 50 body-shaping exercises that strengthen and build muscle flexibility
  • Four adjustable power bands for up to 50-Pounds of additional resistance
  • Unrestricted cable and pulley system provides versatility and great range of motion
  • Space saving design with convenient slide away technology for quick and easy storage
  • 30-Day satisfaction guarantee, 90-day limited warranty
Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym

Pros and cons for Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym

Pros

  • 100 exercises.
  • 50 lbs of additional resistance.
  • 7 incline settings.

Cons

  • 250 lb weight limit.
  • More expensive that the Weider Ultimate Body Works.

More about Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym

Space saving Weider Total Body all in one gym.

Total Gym Optima

The Optima Total Gym is one of the most affordable Total Gyms with a high weight limit – 400 lbs to be exact.

This model also comes with a squat stand and leg pull attachment.

While I wish it had more attachments, I appreciate its high user weight capacity and think it is a great starter Total Gym for big guys on a budget.

Total Gym Optima Full Body Workout Home Gym Fitness Folding Exercise Machine, Blue
  • WORKOUT VARIETY: Over 60 different exercises ranging from cardio, strength training and stretch all on one machine
  • QUICK WINS: Delivers a total body workout in just minutes
  • DON'T SKIP LEG DAY: Includes multifunctional attachments and leg pulley accessory
  • FULL BODY WORKOUT: Work all major muscle groups simultaneously
  • CONVENIENT STORAGE: Folds quickly for easy, out of the way storage
Total Gym Optima

Pros and cons for Total Gym Optima

Pros

  • 400 lb weight limit.
  • Includes squat stand and leg pull attachment.
  • Great price.

Cons

  • Not many extras.

More about Total Gym Optima

Low price, high weight capacity Total Gym.

Total Gym Achiever

As one of the lowest priced Total Gyms, this entry level model includes just the leg pull attachment. It holds riders up to 275 lbs and folds for easy storage.

Total Gym Achiever

Pros and cons for Total Gym Achiever

Pros

  • Includes leg pull attachment.
  • Accommodates riders up to 275 lbs.

Cons

  • Honestly, could really use a squat stand.

More about Total Gym Achiever

Lowest price, entry level Total Gym.

Total Gym 1600

This very affordable Total Gym allows you to focus on building upper body strength, without neglecting leg day.

The dip bar and press-up bar allow you to work your back, chest, pecs, shoulders and triceps, while the squat stand and leg attachment ensure a productive leg day.

Total Gym 1600, c 751496, Black
  • Over 60 Different Exercises, Strengthens and Tones Multiple Muscle Groups Simultaneously
  • Strength, cardio, and flexibility training
  • 250-pound user weight limit
  • Can give you a total body workout
  • Well-padded moving seat
Total Gym 1600

Pros and cons for Total Gym 1600

Pros

  • Includes dip bars and press-up bar for arms.
  • Includes squat stand and leg attachment.
  • Really great price.

Cons

  • Only accommodates users up to 250 lbs.

More about Total Gym 1600

The most well rounded Total Gym at this low price point.

Total Gym FIT

This is the top of the line Total Gym model with all the extras you want and need.

This beastly machine accommodates the big guys – up to 450 lbs.

It includes the ab crunch, leg pull attachment, an upgraded squat stand and the wing attachment.

This is an investment the whole family can use to stay FIT.

Total Gym FIT

Pros and cons for Total Gym FIT

Pros

  • Accommodate users up to 450 lbs.
  • Includes a new, stronger squat stand.
  • Includes ab crunch and leg pull attachment.

Cons

  • Most expensive model.

More about Total Gym FIT

The top of the line from the Total Gym lineup, a sturdy, quality piece of equipment.

What is the Difference Between Total Gym Models?

It may seem like a daunting task to choose a Total Gym with so many Total Gym models out there.

But take heart, I have outlined the main differences between each model here, so it’s easy!

Total Gyms differ on 5 different points:

Price

Price is usually an indicator of how hearty and durable the machine is, and how many accessories it includes.

So a low price Total Gym has a low user weight capacity and not many accessories.

A top of the line Total Gym machine holds up to 450 lbs and offers 85 exercises. It’s easy to see the difference here.

Weight Capacity

Total Gyms range in weight capacity from 250 lbs on low-end models, on up to 450 lbs for high-end models.

Be sure to pick one that works for everyone in your family.

Resistance Levels

Total Gym machines use your body weight as resistance. If you want to increase resistance, you raise the one end of the Total Gym using the resistance knobs and you have more resistance.

Total Gyms can have anywhere from 6 to 12 resistance levels, depending on the model.

I love that Total Gym includes a reference chart with their machine that tells you what the resistance is based on how high you have the machine and what your weight is.

Number of Exercises Available

The Total Gym machines offer anywhere from 60 to 85 exercises, depending on the accessories included.

And Most Importantly, Included Accessories

This is the big one.

The accessories each model comes with can vary quite a bit. For example, many models include a squat stand, while a few others include the Pilates to bar instead.

How to Use Total Gym?

The Total Gym offers between 60 to 85 exercises, depending on what model you choose, and I am sure you are anxious to find out how to get the most out of your Total Gym.

Start with this beginner Total Gym workout. It goes over the basics and will help you use all the accessories your Total Gym comes with.

If you opt for the toe bar on your Total Gym vs the Pilates reformer you want to know how to use the included toe bar and get the most from your Pilates style workout.

Looking to gain strength?

Total Gym can do that too!

This strength training video covers leg building squats, back building pull ups, chest building chest press and more.

 

Is Total Gym Worth it? Does the Total Gym Really Work?

If you are debating on getting a total gym, you are probably asking yourself “Is a Total Gym worth it?”

Well, to tell you the truth, I believe it is worth it.

Here’s the deal.

Fitness fads come and go. We have all seen it. I mean who can forget Tae Bo or the thigh master? Am I right?

But the Total Gym has been around since 1974 and was built by a pro bodybuilder. Today, more than 40 years later, the Total Gym is still going strong.

Why?

Because people love it and it works. In fact, I know people who use their 10 or 15 years, and go out and purchase another one. They would not do that if Total Gyms sucked, right?

The Total Gym takes just 20 minutes from your day, uses 60 or more exercises so you don’t get bored, and can be done at home.

Does the Total Gym Work for Weight Loss?

First things first:

Weight loss happens in the kitchen, primarily.

Weight loss has 80 percent to do with what you eat, and 20 percent relies on exercise.

But that 20 percent is important, and yes, the Total Gym, among other forms of exercise, will help you achieve your weight loss goals if you stay committed.

If you want to see other exercise equipment that will help you lose weight, check out my reviews of the best weight loss equipment here.

How Many Calories do You Burn on a Total Gym?

Calories burned depends on the intensity and length of your workout. On average, a person who weighs 150 lbs can expect to burn 155 calories, roughly, in a half-hour.

If you weight more, or use higher resistance, naturally you will burn more calories.

Which is Better Total Gym or Bowflex?

As far as simplicity and longevity go, the Total Gym wins when you compare the Total Gym vs BowFlex.

Also, as the Bowflex ages, those resistance rods invariably wear out and need to be replaced. And those BowFlex rods are not cheap.

As I said before, I know several people who use their Total Gym for 10 to 15 years before investing in a new one, but I do not hear that about the Bowflex.

Did I mention…

The Total Gym is foldable, which BowFlex is not, making it the best space-saving option too.

If you are interested in checking out the best Bowflex machines, take a look at these Bowflex reviews.

Is the Total Gym Better Than a Rowing Machine?

If you are comparing the Total Gym vs rowing machine, you may be trying to decide which is best.

It depends on your goals.

A rower is a good low impact cardio workout, but it does not do much in terms of strength training.

On the other hand…

The Total Gym is capable of both cardiovascular exercise and strength training.

It’s not that I am against rowers, I think they are excellent cardio machines suitable for all ages. If you are considering a rowing machine, I have reviewed the best rowing machines here.

That wraps up the reviews and Total Gym guide.

I hope that now you have all the info you need to decide on the best Total Gym for you.

Want to see more?

If you are still not settled on the Total Gym concept, maybe you would like to check out other all in one home gyms.

These take up more space than the Total Gym, but offer more in the way of strength training and muscle building. Here are my reviews of the top all in one home gyms.

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