While a gym membership is one way to get or stay in shape, many people prefer to have the option to work out at home. And even if you're short on space and time, the Total Gym XLS offers a full-body workout in a compact package.
Below, we'll look into what kind of workout you can expect with this product, as well as who it's suitable for.
PROS
- It includes five workout DVDs, an exercise chart, and a nutrition guide, making it a good all-in-one package even for beginners
- It has over 80 exercises
- Little to no assembly is needed
- It can used by beginners to advanced exercisers
Cons
- If you are used to a more traditional home gym, adapting to a non-traditional home gym may take some time and effort
- May not provide enough resistance for those looking to put on significant mass
KEY FEATURES
Here, we'll look at some of the main features of this product. This can help to decide whether or not this home gym is the right choice for you.
- Plenty of people want home gym equipment, but many are discouraged because of a lack of space. And while some may be skeptical, despite its relatively small size compared to more traditional home gyms, the Total Gym XLS does its work and can provide most people with a challenging workout.
- For those looking for a home gym they can use in a small apartment or other small living space, this may be an answer. It takes up relatively little space when in use, and it can be folded away and stored in a closet when not in use.
- Many home gyms rely on heavy weight stacks to add resistance. While this provides a decent workout, it makes the setup difficult to move. The Total Gym incorporates bodyweight resistance, which makes it relatively lightweight and easier to move.
- Another feature that sets Total Gym XLS apart is the fact that it allows users to do strength training, cardio, and stretching on the same machine. And because cardio is an important addition to strength training having all three training styles available to you on the same machine simplifies your workout. Plus, you only need one machine to do cardio and strength exercises.
The Total Gym includes an exercise chart that details how to do 35 of the over 80 exercises. This may be helpful for those who have not used a home gym like this one before.
REVIEW OF THE PRODUCT
Training Variety: 5/5
This machine is one that earns major points for versatility. And in a home gym, versatility is important. If you have a whole warehouse to yourself, you can probably afford to stock it with several different machines.
But if you're like many people looking for an all-in-one exercise machine, you need a machine that gives you as many exercise options as possible in as little space as possible.
The Total Gym XLS offers strength, cardio, and stretching possibilities in a package that only takes up about as much space as a standard weight bench.
Ease of Use: 4/5
It might take some time before you're used to this machine, especially if you are someone who is accustomed to a traditional home gym or free weight training. But once you have overcome the learning curve, using the Total Gym is fairly straightforward.
While you might want to use your imagination to create exercises to use on the machine, this is not a requirement for use. The Total Gym comes with an exercise chart. This chart not only describes how to do each exercise, but the chart also illustrates how to do it. Or you could use one of the five workout dvds.
Build Quality: 4/5
The XLS is padded with durable foam, which reduces the chances of tearing or wearing out. Plus, the included exercise guides will ensure that users use the machine safely and effectively.
"HOW DOES IT COMPARE TO OTHER HOME GYMS?"
Weider Ultimate Body Works
This home gym setup operates on a similar premise, as it largely involves the user moving his or her own bodyweight using resistance bands.
However, the Weider gym only includes an exercise guide and does not include a nutritional guide or exercise DVDs. This means that it is more likely to be well-suited to more advanced users.
For beginners or those looking for additional guidance, the Total Gym is likely a better choice.
Total Gym XLS Plus AbCrunch Bench
The XLS with AbCrunch Bench is a good choice for those who are looking for a home gym setup that is more advanced.
This model is essentially the Total Gym XLS with an added bench for abdominal crunches. It also comes with workout DVDs, an exercise guide, and a nutritional guide.
Bayou Fitness Total Trainer DLX-lll
This gym is built similarly to the Total Gym. The Bayou Fitness gym may be a good fit for those who want an especially sleek-looking home gym, as it is chrome-plated with black padding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while no home is gym is the best choice for everyone, the Total Gym XLS offers a lot of different exercises.
It also provides guidance to those new to the Total Gym or to exercise in general. If you have minimal space but still want to get in a full-body workout, this may be the home exercise machine for you.