Is it true? Can you lose weight, build muscles and stay lean in 10-20 minutes a day using a Total Gym? The short answer is: Yes! And in this total gym review, we’ll break down everything you need to know!
A word of Caution: Before going any further with this review, we need to tell you that your fitness goals depend entirely on your efforts. This home gym equipment is only the support that you need to ‘USE‘ to achieve those goals.
Our Top Recommendation for Total Gym!
- 1 machine for a total body workout; Maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds
- Comes complete with ribbed squat stand, wing attachment, leg pull accessory with 2 ankle cuffs
- Includes access to stream workouts from Total Gym TV for free for extra guidance and training;
*We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
What is a Total Gym?
A Total Gym is a home gym solution that lets you use your body weight to do a variety of exercises. The name ‘Total Gym’ says it all, with just this one piece of machine you will be able to do your full body workouts in only 10 – 20 mins a day.
Look:
If you’re reading this, then you most likely saw an infomercial on TV with Chuck Norris or Christie Brinkley.
The machine is a great solution for strength training, cardio, Ab and Core strengthening, and weight loss.
They have been around for more than 40 years. In the words of Chuck Norris, it’s his “lean Mean exercise machine” that he’s been using for more than 30 years. He’s 77 now and still using it to date.
How Does The Total Gym Work?
Total gyms work by using a percentage of your body weight at different incline levels during your workout routines.
They also help to save you time and money by allowing you to skip gym lines and expensive fees. As such, you can do all your workouts on just the one piece of equipment. Yep, you read that right!
From squats, ab crunches, pull-ups, etc., it’s all there on the product. So instead of jumping from one bench to another and using dangerous weights, you can get on your total gym and workout at home.
Who Should be Using a Total Gym?
These machines can be used by anyone regardless of age and fitness level or user experience! Due to the incline levels provided by the equipment, you can completely tailor the workout difficulty. However, if you have some a medical condition, you may want to consult with your physician before using it. Even if you have some health conditions, your doctor would still advocate that you do moderate – easy exercises. And any total gym model you choose to purchase can be used by anyone. Which leads us to the big question!
Is The Total Gym Effective?
Yes, total gyms are very effective in working out all the muscles in your body. They are useful especially if you don’t want to spend money on purchasing many different workout tools, or a gym subscription. Depending on the model you get, you may be able to do over 80+ moves that target different body parts. Another great feature of a the machine is that you don’t need a lot of room. It can also be stored away easily in a closet or under your bed.
Notably, most users find that they can get a better workout on their total gym than if they went to a gym. With the ease of use, the machine presents, anyone will be able to jump on it and workout. The effectiveness of the product also depends on the model you get so here are our top picks!
Best Total Gyms Home Gyms of 2022 & Comparison Chart
After months of research, testing and reading other user opinions, we’ve compiled the 8 best models in 2022. We’ve also reviewed and compared each model, so you will know which is better to buy!
| Models | XLS | Fit | 1400 | 1100 | 1900 | Force | GTS | Supreme |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Exercises | 80+ | 85+ | 60+ | 60 | 65+ | 60+ | 200+ | 85+ |
| Levels of Resistance | 6 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 12 | 12 | 22 | 12 |
| User Weight Limit | 400 lbs | 450 lbs | 250 lbs | 250 lbs | 350 lbs | 350 lbs | 650 lbs | 275 lbs |
| Number of Workout Tools& Attachments Included | 4 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 3 | 6 | 8 | 4 |
| Number of DVDs Included | 5 | 6 | 1 | None | 2 | 2 | 6 | 4 |
| Dimensions Unfolded (WxLxH) | 19” x 90” x 43” | 18.5” x 93” x 44.5” | 15.5″ x 92.5″ x 43.2″ | 16″ x 99.5″ x 43.75″ | 16″ x 92.5″ x 43.2″ | 19” x 90” x 43” | 38″ x 107″ x 69″ | 15.5″ x 93″ x 43.25″ |
| Unit Weight | 68 lbs | 66 lbs | 73.2 lbs | 54 lbs | 75 lbs | 66 lbs | 180 lbs | 56 lbs |
| Warranty on Frame | Lifetime | Lifetime | 1 Year | 1 Year | 1 Year | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year |
8 Best Total Gyms in 2022 (Ultimate Guide)
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Total Gym XLS Review | • Maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds • Concentrates on all the major muscle groups • No assembly required and folds for compact storage | |
 | Total Gym Fit Review | • Leg Pull Accessory with Detachable Bracket • No assembly required • Upgraded Squat Stand | |
 | Total Gym 1400 Review | • Bring the versatility of the gym to the privacy of your home • Delivers a total body workout in 10 20 minutes • Strengthens and tones major muscle groups simultaneously | |
 | Total Gym 1100 Review | • Bring the versatility of the gym • Delivers a total body workout in 10 20 minutes • Over 60 different exercises ranging from cardio | |
 | Total Gym Force Review | • I believe the box said 300 or 350. • I normally go jogging as part of my cardio routine workout however • Strengthens | |
 | Total Gym 1900 Review | • Pump some iron, do some abs • Bring the versatility of the gym to the privacy • Strengthens and tones major muscle groups simultaneously | |
 | Total Gym GTS Review | • 650lb User Weight Capacity • Over 200 Exercises on One Home Elite Gym • Hydraulic rail lift assists with level changes & easy two-step folding. | |
 | Total Gym Supreme Review | • 12 Levels of Resistance • Over 60 Exercises on One Home Gym • 275lb User Weight Capacity |
1. Total Gym XLS Review
As their best selling product model, the XLS model is the all-around best total gym to purchase. It has a more updated finish than the older 1000 series. Besides, the xls model has a few extra attachments that allow you the ability to perform 80+ exercises. Additionally, the XLS gives you six incline levels so you can adjust the difficulty of your workout.
Included with the XLS – Universal Home Gym is a standard wind attachment, leg pull accessory, a Padded squat-stand, workout DVDs, exercise chart, a training deck, and a meal planning guide. The xls model also offers a maximum user weight limit of 400lbs.
Furthermore, the XLS model can be kitted out to allow Pilates workouts. For a more challenging exercise, you can have the option to purchase the weight bar attachment.
So when asked which total gym is the best? We had to say that it is the XLS model!
2. Total Gym Fit Review
The FIT model is the “Cadillac” of their lineup. It has more premium materials, an updated color scheme, and more attachments. Coupled with two times the resistance levels provided by the xls model, the FIT model is better in every way.
However, there’s a catch!
The price of the FIT comes in at almost twice the cost of the Total Gym XLS. As such, we rated the FIT model second on our list of best total gyms. If you want to get a discount on the total gym fit click here. Total gym fit has 12 resistance levels for better precision when raising your workout difficulty. Plus, it’s glideboard is thicker and has a padded pillow top for extra comfort. Moreover, it has more exercise capabilities. The FIT model can be used to perform 85+ exercises. It includes a total of seven workout DVDs. Additionally, it has a 450 lb user weight limit and auto-lock height adjustment system.
At present, if you purchase the FIT model you will receive their best selling Ab Crunch attachment. Moreover, you’ll also receive a ribbed squat stand, 2-piece wing attachment, and leg pull accessories.
3. Total Gym 1400 Review
Of all the models available, the total gym 1400 was our favorite all-rounder. The 1400 model starts at an affordable price of roughly $250 “that prices might vary” and has all the basics you need. Occasionally, there might be sale offers available that could allow you to get it cheaper.
Included with the total gym 1400 are a squat stand, a pull-up and press up bar, and a dip bar press. Additionally, you’ll also receive their workout chart and their Ultimate Workout DVD. The 1400 model allows you to do 60+ exercises. Furthermore, the 1400 model has eight resistance levels so you can adjust the workout difficulty and weight percentage.
The 1400 models does pretty much the same thing as the higher priced models. All of that makes the 1400 model the best total gym for the money. We also think it is a closer competitor to other brands such as the weider ultimate body works or vigorfit.
4. Total Gym 1100 Review
A great starter home gym solution that we can recommend is the total gym 1100. At a price a little over $100 “that prices might vary”, it offers a great deal of value. With the 1100 model, you get a leg and wing attachment. Moreover, you’ll also get a workout chart plus the nutrition guide/meal planner. The 1100 model is pretty much the most basic version of their lineup. Offering the ability to 60 exercises involving your legs and arms. It also has six resistance levels. The six levels of resistance let you use between 6% to 48% of your bodyweight.
If you want a model that is cheap and easy to use, get the 1100!
5. Total Gym Force Review
The Total gym force has a sleeker more updated design and much the same inclusions as the 1900 model. Moreover, the force model has a maximum user weight limit of 350 pounds and 12 levels of resistance. The Force model enables users to perform 60+ workouts on one machine with more control over the exercise difficulty. The design features include flexible nylon strap wing attachments, auto-locking height adjustment knob, and a padded pillow top board!
Regarding accessories, this model comes with the AbCrunch accessory, wing attachments, leg pull accessory, dip bars, tri-grip shaper bars, a squat stand, and durable stability mats. Additionally, you’ll get two workout DVDs, a flip chart and exercise guide plus the primary owner’s manual. The price point of this is also around $300 “that prices might vary” + which is excellent for what you are getting.
All those inclusions make this model the best mid-priced total gym to purchase right now.
6. Total Gym 1900 Review
The 1900 model is another excellent total gym product. Like other models in their lineup, the Total Gym 1900 model is great for cardio, flexibility, and strength training! Additionally, it comes equipped with a pilates bar that is an excellent add-on for changing things up. Additionally, the total gym includes a padded pillow top glideboard and can accommodate up to 350 lbs user weight.
Included with your purchase of this model is the leg and wing attachment, a dip bar, and a press up bar. You will also receive two workout DVDs inside the package.
Furthermore, the 1900 model has 12 calibrated resistance levels and can allow you to do 60+ exercises.
As a budget-friendly home gym solution, we think that the 1900 model is also one of the top picks in 2022!
7. Total Gym GTS Review
Most persons will likely never purchase the top of the line GTS model for their homes. But it is still a great model home gym, and we just had to include it in our Total Gym review. The GTS is a professional grade model that is more suited for gyms; however, you can still use it at home. It is priced at around $3,700 “that prices might vary” and includes way more features than all the other models. It supports more than 200+ exercises. And has 22 different incline levels to adjust your workout difficulty. With the different incline levels available you’ll be able to use from 1% up to 62% of your bodyweight. Additionally, it has a 650-pound user weight capacity.
If you want to go all out and get the top of the line model, here’s what to expect:
- 3-Grip pull-up bar
- Press up bar
- A Retractable Dip bar
- SCRUNCH
- Squat Handlebar
- Weight Bar Attachments
- Dynamic Unilateral/Bilateral Pulley System
- Heavy duty glideboard
- Soft Rubber Padded Handles
The total number of attachments included is far more than any other model. Plus the glideboard can be raised to boost the variety and difficulty of the workouts further. Furthermore, the quality is the best you’ll ever see on a home gym solution of this category. In addition, you’ll get a 5-year warranty on the frame, a 1-year warranty on parts and a 90-day warranty on the rubber and foam. You will also receive a workout DVD, exercise chart and owners manual.
The GTS model is an excellent buy should you choose to purchase one of the high-end models. It will serve you for decades
8. Total Gym Supreme Review
The total gym supreme is another excellent option to choose. We recommend it as their updated best mid-ranged model. This model has a 275-pound user weight capacity and 12 calibrated incline levels. Moreover, the Supreme model has a padded pillow top glideboard and flexible nylon strap handles. Moreover, it will allow users to perform 60+ exercises all on the one equipment with no hassle.
Included with this model total gym are the Ab crunch accessory, tri-grip shaper bar, leg pull accessory, and a squat stand. The package also contains four workout DVDs and a nutritional program and meal plan. The price of the Supreme at the time of writing this is about $500 “that prices might vary”. Click here to check the price.
How to assemble Total gym?
We have great news. The Total Gym requires no assembly as it is already fully set-up and ready to use out of the box. However here’s our step-by-step guide on how to set up a total gym out of the box.
- Remove the cardboard end from both sides.
- Take the squat stand from under the top of the product.
- Remove the foam ends from the squat stand.
- Insert the squat stand into the holes provided at the feet of the equipment.
- Move to the top of the product and lift it to a standing position.
- Slightly open the product and remove the accessories inside.
- Next step is to unfold the total gym.
- Place one hand on the glideboard then slide the bench open.
- Then left the support column up until you hear a clicking sound.
- Step on the bottom bar and lift the height adjustment handles to your desired level.
- Ensure you insert the safety hitch pins to lock in the level.
- Remove the cables from the clipboard by sliding the bench up to unhook it.
- Insert the Card deck on the support column.
And that’s all you need to do to get set-up and start working out. The model you purchase may have additional attachments so the steps may vary slightly. But getting started on your exercise routines should take no more than a few minutes.
Where to buy Total Gym?
Purchasing a total gym can be done through a variety of different vendors. However, we would recommend that you purchase directly from their Website, or on Amazon. When you are buying it through certain vendors, you may have warranty issues. The chances of there being a problem are slim. However, the possibility still exists. Total gyms are known for their durability and quality of materials used but if you find any defects in your purchase don’t hesitate to reach out to them. Their customer service is excellent for the most part. That is assuming you qualify for proper product warranty.
How to fold up Total Gym?
Here’s how to fold up a total gym:
- Remove the Training deck.
- Remove the safety hitch pin.
- Lower the rails by pulling the latch on the back of the glideboard.
- Remove the red pull spring pin and lower the column to the center of the rails.
- Grab the rails at the center top.
- Lift and walk glideboard back to the rails ensuring your hand is clear from the middle.
- Afterward, you need to place the safety pin into the secure spot on the right bottom side of the product.
Are you still not sure which unit is best for you?
If after reading throughout total gym reviews and looking at the list of the best total gyms for the money you still can’t choose. We recommend the XLS model as the one you’ll likely not regret purchasing. It has all the necessary features and can be upgraded more when you decide to in the future.
If you don’t want to spend as much money on the XLS model, our next best-recommended model to buy is the total gym 1400!If you still aren’t sure which model is better, we’ve made a few comparisons of different total gym models. You can see our related product comparisons by clicking one of the links in the comparison section.
Related Product Comparisons
- Total Gym 1400 vs 1900
- Total Gym Fit vs XLS
- Total Gym 1400 vs 1600
- Total Gym Force vs 1600
- Total Gym 1900 vs XLS
Wrapping Up…
After reading this total gym review, you should have all the knowledge you need to either purchase the right model or using the product. Total Gyms are great workout equipment for just about any user. They allow you to get a Full body workout right in the comfort of your home. With many different price ranges and the number of exercises that they can do, you’ll never go wrong by investing in one. If you have any more questions or concerns about this product, feel free to reach out to us, and we’ll be happy to assist.