Home Gyms Reviewed
Do a search for home gyms online and you'll be hit by a deluge of brands, models and latest offers. You may be spoiled for choice but it does nothing to make your decision straight forward. So how can you narrow the choice down to a more manageable selection?
Firstly we'll outline what to look for generally in a multi gym. Secondly the reviews of specific home gyms below will help you narrow your choice further...
Undoubtedly the two most important considerations when buying home gym equipment are the amount of money you're willing to spend and the amount of space you have available. Once you have a figure in mind for price and space it will reduce your choice considerably. The reviews below are categorized by price and I've also added the dimensions of each gym as well. Anything else to consider?
Type of Stations?
Think about the kind of exercises you want your gym to offer. As a rule of thumb, the more you pay the more exercise stations you'll get. However, there's no need to pay extra for some obscure add-on that you will never use. The cheaper gyms may not have leg exercises or if they do they will be cheap and flimsy. If working your legs is important don't go for the cheapest machine. Again the reviews below explain what muscles groups that particular gym will and won't work.
Weight Stack or Free Weights?
Most people buy home exercise equipment for convenience. If that's you then you probably want a weight stack. Basically one or two columns of weights (usually in 10lb increments) is used for all the exercises. You simply adjust the resistance by moving the locking pin up or down. More serious lifters prefer the feel of free weights and there are home gyms available that will let you add your own plates. If that's you there's a section below that reviews smith machines and the like.
How much does a home gym cost?
Prices start at around $250 for the most basic machines. Think seriously about buying a home gym at all if this sounds expensive. A reasonable amount to pay for a decent multi gym that works all the major muscle groups is $500 to $1000. More than this and you're into the high quality, commercial grade machines aimed at serious weight trainers (or beginners with serious money!).
So with a brief outline of what to look out for in home gyms let's start to look at some specific models in more detail...
Bandflex
Recommended. Affordable and popular version of the Bowflex and Weider Crossbow.
Bowflex
Similar to the Bowflex and Weider Crossbow but much more expensive.
Body-Solid EXM1500S Home Gym (USA Orders Only), Free Shipping!
More of a traditional home model and one of the best. This Model is still reasonably priced.
Total Gym
Almost an institution now! Great piece of equipment but may lack the resistance for many.
Weider Crossbow
Recommended. Affordable and popular version of the Bowflex and Weider Crossbow.
Weider Pro 3750 Strength Trainer
Another more traditional home gym but uses plates (purchased separately) rather than a weight stack. At $350 it's much less expensive than the Body solid even when you add on the cost of extra plates.
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