Appreciate the video man. I got gifted an XLS then bought a FIT. Ive been playing for a few weeks, and running in to your videos, you’ve increased my arsenal of exercises by your techniques, variations and spoken experience. Thanks man.
You didn't need to apologize for anything, the sound was great. You and your wife did a wonderful job. Thank you so much for showing the proper way to use this machine.
I started with my total gym FIT Monday. I went straight to the workout videos and skipped over this Beginner's Guide. I was all jacked up making the mistakes you pointed out. Feel much better now having a better idea of how to correctly utilize the machine. Your instructions are easy to follow. Thanks, Big Dawg
Thank you so much for that and for the support. You might find these videos helpful as well ua-cam.com/video/KTUv7UsafpQ/v-deo.html and ua-cam.com/video/PVIopw8Hpzc/v-deo.html
Mike, I’d like send my thanks for the TG content you’ve been providing especially the beginner through to the age 60 and plus size information. I’m in that category and like most people was at a standstill. Your suggestions and hacks have provided me with the confidence to rehab this disabled body and spirit. I would like to show you that you really make a difference so I’m going to begin documenting my journey along with a more detailed description of my medical condition. I look forward to making my progress available to you and your viewers the benefits of the Total Gym and what a dedicated coach can do for us. Thanks in advance. Best wishes.
I just received my total gym yesterday and tested it out in a workout last night. This video was extremely helpful in showing how to safely get on/off and correct form with different exercises! Looking forward to checking out more of your videos!
Thanks for this video. Sometimes it is easy to forget the basics. Posture is everything on this machine. I had trainer once. He really made sure the slow movement of controlling the weight coming down was used. I try this so momentum is reduced. Usually, 2 seconds up and 4 seconds down. It seemed to help. And on the single leg squats, slow on the machine feels beneficial. Thank you for the videos. Really helps get more out of the Total Gym. Its ashamed everyone doesn't recognize how simple and effective it can be.
Just became a sub to your channel after having bought TG. I can’t wait for the machine to arrive so I can practice while watching your videos. Thanks for sharing the videos with us!!!
Thanks. This video is a great intro to the techniques. The video and audio quality is perfect. I have been watching many of your videos and they helped to commit to purchasing a total gym. Keep up the great posts.
Thanks for your videos. Very instructive. Am plus size senior so your comments on mindful range of motion - and that it’s good to move - are motivating and helpful
I just bought a used FIT. I subscribed the other day when I found you. Tell me, is it better to work all the body each day, or break it down ( like a t a gym workout) into biceps, back, shoulders . Then the next day abs, legs, forearms, etc?
You answered some questions I had, thank you for this content. I have been struggling to do the chest press effectively, as I always tend to feel it in my shoulders instead, but it’s reassuring to hear you say that this is normal & to be expected. Thanks again.
Yes, I think over time if you keep trying to focus and get into a position where the tension is on your chest it will get there. A tip (I'm not sure if I mentioned) is before you press, try to feel your muscles (in your chest) being stretched, and then try to focus on those same muscles as you squeeze into the exercise. Thanks for watching.
Great vid. I have the Xtreme model from Costco in Australia and it looks almost identical to this. I am a martial artist and love how you can transfer from one exercise into the other in one movement. Like if laying on back you can do triceps pulls but instead of stopping with forearms in air above chest, just keep going with the movement till your hands meet your hips. Perfect as it works muscles, though also feels like a stretch and not overwhelming like trying it all in the gym.
Hi. I found this much more engaging than some earlier videos. Talking through your exercises whilst doing them is way better than you commentating on a workout. Ok, so the sound wasn't as good but so what!! The overall outcome was great. I for one found it awesome. 10/10 Prof.
Appreciate all your content Mike. Watched this video a few times as I just received my Fit Ultimate. Very helpful with getting accustomed to the machine. Thank you.
Would be really cool if you could come up with some ideas for kneesovertoesguy workouts so we don't seriously hurt ourselves bc you know we r going to try at least I'm going to. Lol. The total gym is perfect for me and others like me with bad knees. Thanks for sharing! Hope I didn't offend but I meant it as a compliment as you seem like the guy to make it happen.
Big Thumbs -up to you.Thanks for the videos..Liked and subbed..Just made enough space to set this up.I'll have to close it back up when I'm done.I'm Retired,but have used this before.And it worked well for me.Jumping back on it again,it's been a while..Best Regards.
Great review glad I watched this👍 big fan of isolation movements and high volume training but gonna love doing both full body and alot of volume with hitting those angles on this versus having a high volume day at the gym 🏋️♂️ even some compound movements being utilized on the fit 💪
Thank you for making these kind of videos, I bought a gr8flex. I'm extremely overweight, and had so much trouble getting up and down on the slide bench, I propped the lower end on 2 of the small jack stands, to make it more accessible when working legs. I weigh enough that doing squats on the slant board is a must because bodyweight squats are just too much. Also because of my stomach doing anything laying on the stomach is prohibitive. I am working on a way to get off the slant board after squats, when the lower end is on the ground, with out rolling off the side onto my knees, any thoughts would be appreciated. I will say you are my main go to for using the machine. TY
Very happy to hear that these videos are helpful. I likely will make a video dedicated to using the Total Gym for more obese individuals. I did make this one awhile back that you might find useful if you haven't checked it out yet. ua-cam.com/video/8V5tJm2Gu_g/v-deo.html I've gotten to see first hand how cumbersome and difficult it can be to use the Total Gym if you're overweight. I'll likely make a video on this in the coming week.
I got one major Total gym and then I got one off-brand . Found them for about a hundred bucks each My mom's boyfriend had one and I loved it when I was younger so I jump on that
Here's a video where I get into that ua-cam.com/video/kNJCSd72_vc/v-deo.html but I am considering doing a diet/weightloss series so feel free to let me know what information might be helpful for you.
Anyone else get a large C safety pin along with the safety pin attached to the lanyard?I couldn’t get the larger pin to work as the holes don’t line up on adjustment tower with lanyard safety pin in.
Are the cables supposed to go under the track that the bench slides on, or over? I got one second hand and it's set up with the cables going underneath the track so they rub against it. Maybe it depends on the model? It's the Fit Plus
I purchased a total gym pinnacle from Sam's club. What are your thoughts on this model I went through chemo and I have neuropathy in my feet, so I got the total gym for exercise
It's hard to say an exact incline since it can depend on some variables of strength, specific exercise, and position. But in general I'd start out with an incline that offers a challenge in the rep range of 10-15. Hope that helps.
I think so to, but that might have been that when I started using Sliding Bench Trainers full time, I was coming off doing more Strength based barbell work and more marital arts to doing more hypertrophy based workouts on the Total Gym. I'm completely sold that you don't need anything else to build size than a Total Gym.
I'm 76 years young and want to stay in shape. I want to slim my waist by doing crunches like sit-ups to firm up the abs. Show me all the exercises including side to side.
Appreciate the video man. I got gifted an XLS then bought a FIT. Ive been playing for a few weeks, and running in to your videos, you’ve increased my arsenal of exercises by your techniques, variations and spoken experience. Thanks man.
You didn't need to apologize for anything, the sound was great. You and your wife did a wonderful job. Thank you so much for showing the proper way to use this machine.
Thank you so much.
I started with my total gym FIT Monday. I went straight to the workout videos and skipped over this Beginner's Guide. I was all jacked up making the mistakes you pointed out. Feel much better now having a better idea of how to correctly utilize the machine. Your instructions are easy to follow. Thanks, Big Dawg
Thank you so much for that and for the support. You might find these videos helpful as well ua-cam.com/video/KTUv7UsafpQ/v-deo.html and ua-cam.com/video/PVIopw8Hpzc/v-deo.html
Mike, I’d like send my thanks for the TG content you’ve been providing especially the beginner through to the age 60 and plus size information. I’m in that category and like most people was at a standstill. Your suggestions and hacks have provided me with the confidence to rehab this disabled body and spirit. I would like to show you that you really make a difference so I’m going to begin documenting my journey along with a more detailed description of my medical condition. I look forward to making my progress available to you and your viewers the benefits of the Total Gym and what a dedicated coach can do for us. Thanks in advance. Best wishes.
Thank you so much for the kind words. Definitely keep me posted on that!
You are saving lives. Much love.
Just a guy in my basement (now garage), but thank you very much for that compliment.
I just received my total gym yesterday and tested it out in a workout last night. This video was extremely helpful in showing how to safely get on/off and correct form with different exercises! Looking forward to checking out more of your videos!
Thank you Amber.
Thanks for this video. Sometimes it is easy to forget the basics. Posture is everything on this machine. I had trainer once. He really made sure the slow movement of controlling the weight coming down was used. I try this so momentum is reduced. Usually, 2 seconds up and 4 seconds down. It seemed to help. And on the single leg squats, slow on the machine feels beneficial. Thank you for the videos. Really helps get more out of the Total Gym. Its ashamed everyone doesn't recognize how simple and effective it can be.
Thanks David. Yes, the simple basic stuff (posture and form) along with good exercises is all you need with this equipment.
😊
Just became a sub to your channel after having bought TG. I can’t wait for the machine to arrive so I can practice while watching your videos. Thanks for sharing the videos with us!!!
No problem at all. Really happy to hear you pulled the trigger and picked one up.
How is the TOTALGYM going after 9mo training?
Thanks. This video is a great intro to the techniques. The video and audio quality is perfect. I have been watching many of your videos and they helped to commit to purchasing a total gym. Keep up the great posts.
Appreciate that very much and happy you found it helpful. Thanks for watching!
Same!
Sound quality and is fine. Thanks for the video it’s very helpful for me.
I really like the Total Gym I just ordered a new set of rollers and I installed them so I'm ready to go watching all your videos they're awesome
Great to hear! The rollers will really extend the life of the machine.
Thanks for your videos. Very instructive. Am plus size senior so your comments on mindful range of motion - and that it’s good to move - are motivating and helpful
Thank you for the kind words.
The Total Gym is amazing. No need for a local gym if you would like to put on muscle.
Completely agree.
Your videos have sold me on getting a Total Gym to help me lose weight and get healthy.
Awesome to hear. Thanks for watching and let me know how it goes.
I just bought a used FIT. I subscribed the other day when I found you. Tell me, is it better to work all the body each day, or break it down ( like a t a gym workout) into biceps, back, shoulders . Then the next day abs, legs, forearms, etc?
You answered some questions I had, thank you for this content. I have been struggling to do the chest press effectively, as I always tend to feel it in my shoulders instead, but it’s reassuring to hear you say that this is normal & to be expected. Thanks again.
Yes, I think over time if you keep trying to focus and get into a position where the tension is on your chest it will get there. A tip (I'm not sure if I mentioned) is before you press, try to feel your muscles (in your chest) being stretched, and then try to focus on those same muscles as you squeeze into the exercise. Thanks for watching.
Very helpful! Answered several of my newbie questions about form and range of motion. Thank you!
Awesome beginners clip. Very useful hints and advice on positioning
Excellent Simple Wonderful Instructor...💯
Thank you so much!
Thanks so much. A GREAT video for us beginners. Much appreciated.
Very happy it was useful
I order one yesterday can't wait to get at it.
I do have a pain in my right shoulder so I hope that doesn't hinder me from using it
Great to hear. I'm sure you'll like it.
Great vid.
I have the Xtreme model from Costco in Australia and it looks almost identical to this.
I am a martial artist and love how you can transfer from one exercise into the other in one movement.
Like if laying on back you can do triceps pulls but instead of stopping with forearms in air above chest, just keep going with the movement till your hands meet your hips.
Perfect as it works muscles, though also feels like a stretch and not overwhelming like trying it all in the gym.
Can the pools be used for leg exersises?
Thanks just got one these videos you have done are great!!!
Thanks so much Stephanie.
Thanks for sharing.
Hi. I found this much more engaging than some earlier videos. Talking through your exercises whilst doing them is way better than you commentating on a workout. Ok, so the sound wasn't as good but so what!! The overall outcome was great. I for one found it awesome. 10/10 Prof.
Thank you for that feedback. I'll look into finding a good mic that might work better.
Very helpful. Thanks!
No problem Matthew.
I love this! ❤ Thank you!
Thanks Christine.
Great video.
Thank you very much Nathan.
Very detailed and informative! Great video 👍🏻
Great starter video. Thx
Extremely helpful, thank you so much!
No problem at all. Thank you for watcing
Appreciate all your content Mike. Watched this video a few times as I just received my Fit Ultimate. Very helpful with getting accustomed to the machine.
Thank you.
No problem. Thanks so much for watching and happy to hear it was helpful
Would be really cool if you could come up with some ideas for kneesovertoesguy workouts so we don't seriously hurt ourselves bc you know we r going to try at least I'm going to. Lol. The total gym is perfect for me and others like me with bad knees.
Thanks for sharing! Hope I didn't offend but I meant it as a compliment as you seem like the guy to make it happen.
Thank you! That's been on my list. I did make a brief video on that here in case you didn't see thta ua-cam.com/video/BAWqBRTmPPA/v-deo.html
Big Thumbs -up to you.Thanks for the videos..Liked and subbed..Just made enough space to set this up.I'll have to close it back up when I'm done.I'm Retired,but have used this before.And it worked well for me.Jumping back on it again,it's been a while..Best Regards.
Great review glad I watched this👍 big fan of isolation movements and high volume training but gonna love doing both full body and alot of volume with hitting those angles on this versus having a high volume day at the gym 🏋️♂️ even some compound movements being utilized on the fit 💪
Thanks man, appreciate that. Definitely watch some of the newer videos and catch up on the rest of the stuff you can do with this machine.
Keep it up, back to basics is always beneficial.👍
Appreciate that, thank you.
Received my tank. Fits great.
Great to hear! And thank so much for the support.
Thank you for making these kind of videos, I bought a gr8flex. I'm extremely overweight, and had so much trouble getting up and down on the slide bench, I propped the lower end on 2 of the small jack stands, to make it more accessible when working legs. I weigh enough that doing squats on the slant board is a must because bodyweight squats are just too much. Also because of my stomach doing anything laying on the stomach is prohibitive. I am working on a way to get off the slant board after squats, when the lower end is on the ground, with out rolling off the side onto my knees, any thoughts would be appreciated. I will say you are my main go to for using the machine. TY
Very happy to hear that these videos are helpful. I likely will make a video dedicated to using the Total Gym for more obese individuals. I did make this one awhile back that you might find useful if you haven't checked it out yet. ua-cam.com/video/8V5tJm2Gu_g/v-deo.html I've gotten to see first hand how cumbersome and difficult it can be to use the Total Gym if you're overweight. I'll likely make a video on this in the coming week.
Wow, thank you.
You're welcome!
I got one major Total gym and then I got one off-brand . Found them for about a hundred bucks each My mom's boyfriend had one and I loved it when I was younger so I jump on that
Great! But I need a 7-minute version of this!😳
Can you do a break down on what your diet is like? Thanks!
Here's a video where I get into that ua-cam.com/video/kNJCSd72_vc/v-deo.html but I am considering doing a diet/weightloss series so feel free to let me know what information might be helpful for you.
You mentioned GR8FLEX squat stand. Can you do an updated review of that bench since you have had it a few months?
Yes, I likely will do an update comparing the two in the near future. Thanks for reminding me.
Anyone else get a large C safety pin along with the safety pin attached to the lanyard?I couldn’t get the larger pin to work as the holes don’t line up on adjustment tower with lanyard safety pin in.
Yes the large c pin is shown to go in the holes below the incline tower so the bed rails can't fall down the incline tower.
Are the cables supposed to go under the track that the bench slides on, or over? I got one second hand and it's set up with the cables going underneath the track so they rub against it. Maybe it depends on the model? It's the Fit Plus
The cables should not rub on the rails. As long as you hook the middle pulley under the top of the glideboard on the hood you should be ok.
@@hybridresistance thanks! I got it figured out 😊
I purchased a total gym pinnacle from Sam's club. What are your thoughts on this model I went through chemo and I have neuropathy in my feet, so I got the total gym for exercise
That model isn't bad. It's comparable to the Apex models in build. The only thing would be I'd pick up a larger squat stand attachment.
What incline should i start with? Male, 41, 204, 6'1' and my wife is 42 5'0' what do you recommend she and i start at?
It's hard to say an exact incline since it can depend on some variables of strength, specific exercise, and position. But in general I'd start out with an incline that offers a challenge in the rep range of 10-15. Hope that helps.
You look like you got bigger. Is it just my eyes or did you put on mass since last year? If so, that's pretty impressive knowing the TG did all that.
I think so to, but that might have been that when I started using Sliding Bench Trainers full time, I was coming off doing more Strength based barbell work and more marital arts to doing more hypertrophy based workouts on the Total Gym. I'm completely sold that you don't need anything else to build size than a Total Gym.
I want to work on my stomach area what can I do
I have a "core" playlist you can check out here ua-cam.com/play/PLUiiIHn087rHcXfE-F_YPVMQTW2E8QWpk.html
Mike I think your wife did an awesome job videoing the clip.
I agree, she did great.
I'm 76 years young and want to stay in shape. I want to slim my waist by doing crunches like sit-ups to firm up the abs. Show me all the exercises including side to side.
I just got A TG XLS. Learning the basic is a must. THANKS.
I'm just trying to keep muscle so I can still carry in groceries. You know stayed toned not become a body builder. So how do I prevent that
I'd say just don't do so many sets, reps, and reduce overall volume.
@@hybridresistance and probably just stay on the lower enclines I'm guessing
Everything I have seen is for upper body what about nips down like stomach
There's a lot of good pull down exercises in that position or the inverted shoulder presses.