I've owned both models - nice thing is that some parts and attachments are interchangeable. For example, you can put the XLS glideboard on the Fit and vice versa. One thing I really liked about the XLS glideboard is that the board slightly overhangs the metal trim, so it gives you a place to grip the board on the sides. One Fit, the cheap plastic trim is flush with the edge of the board. I do prefer the height adjustment mechanism on the XLS vs the Fit -- seems sturdier and easier to use -- but I liked having the extra levels on the Fit.
I dont kno what difference is between XL and XLS but I p/u my XL on craigslist for $150, very good condition. Few things....mine has metal handles and I agree, squat stand kinda sucks....I use the pilates bar for squats. The holes for weight bar are great for weights and bands....good stuff!!
Someone else may have mentioned this as well, not sure, but going from a shorter glide board to a longer glide board is a HUGE improvement if you’re tall like me. I’m 6’5” and 270 lbs. The wider glide board is also a huge plus. However, the average size person might prefer the smaller glide board. When I had a unit with the shorter board and I was laying down (face up) I could not get my feet and head on the board at the same time, so my head was always off the board. And the comfort level of the wider board really is luxurious when your taller than normal.
Another great review thanks. After getting the total gym fit we gave our XLS to our daughter in law for their jujitsu studio and everyone loves it including our 14 year grandson who is very involved in competition. These machines are the best.
Great review. I have a few comments. The top weight bar has several benefits. First off, if you don't want to pay for weight plates, you can more easily improvise with longer items like jugs filled with sand since they won't hit the floor like they would on the bottom bar. Secondly, there are many unique things you can do with extra pulleys. Slide a carabiner with a pulley on each side and you can do more natural bench presses, upright rows and shoulder presses. Finally, it's another contact point to prevent the board from sliding out from under you. For example, with heavy shoulder presses, you can put your feet on the ends of the bar to make sure the board stays with you. I totally agree with you on the large squat stand. The round one doesn't seem to be much of an improvement over the small one.
I really like the way this machine looks. I already had the FIT and found the xls less smooth and the rales noisy. I ended up giving it to my sister in law. I did not like the 6 levels and contemplated hubby drilling holes to make more levels. He's a contractor and he said he could do it with no damage. The FIT was just more comfortable for me. Better machine imo. I have the blue striped one.
Really enjoy your videos. One issue I found with my XLS was the amount of slop or play on the top casters to the glide rails. There is so much play that the outer guides on the board catch on the end of the glide rails on the down stroke on exercises like a squat. I remedied this by cutting the long outer caster spacer 1/8" shorter and adding 1/8" thick washer on the outside of the short inner spacer next to the caster. Did this on both sides. Now the play on the casters to the glide rails is the same as it is on my small frame total gym. (About 1/8" on both casters)
Unfortunately I didn't take any pictures. I used a hack saw to cut the spacer in a vice. I used the two 1/16" washers stacked together to use as a gauge for the length to cut off. I allowed the spacer to extend out of the vice the thickness of the two washers and used the top of the vise as a guide so you get a straight cut. Also make sure to file off any burrs on the cut end of the spacer . Don't cut off too much. Atleast if you cut the spacer a little long you can file it down. Just make sure the cut end of the spacer is smooth and flat.
Does anyone experience their glideboard getting stuck back on the way down the railing? Seems like mine is hitting the bolts thats connect the top silver railing to the bottom black railing on the bottom. I always have to recenter my glideboard so it falls all the way to the bottom
Thanks for the review. I just bought a used XLS myself and it didn't come with any attachments. I'm looking to buy a few things in the coming weeks. I was tossed between the fit and XLS but your review made me think I made a pretty good choice. I'd sure like to get that toe bar from you.
I set up my 3000 and my Elite side-by-side. The Elite came with a plethora of attachments, which are not interchangeable from small frame to large frame. I didn't want to spend additional dollars on attachments for the 3000, but I swapped the wheels/bearings on both models with Huck, and what a difference on both! I get a better burn with the 3000, but it really boils down to form, time under tension and rep to failure. Find a model that works for you and work the model. I'm a TG fan!
Glad you made this video! I have owned my XLS for a little over 2 years and i didn't even know that there were 2 holes at the top of the glide board for external weight.( I bought mine used, no manual etc.) I just now removed them plastic tabs covering the holes . This will be so much better now that i can insert a weight bar at the top of the glide board to hold on to while doing squats. Looking forward to your comparison to the fit model. Also you can reverse that pull up bar for the XLS in the opposite direction for a different experience
I initially wanted an XLS when I started looking for one for myself. But I got extremely lucky and found a Fit MAX model. That came with the extra large squat stand the pull-up bars. Dip bars. Ab crunch attachment for $200. And I have fallen in love with mine. I've gained size and strength in just a month
@@Tomasquo yes sir. Met the lady that was selling it. Looked everything over looked brand new... All the attachments were good. Gave her $200 and loaded it up in my jeep. I'm very pleased I use it everyday. Some days I miss weights and I'll do some squats and bench press... My bench press has gone up! But I can do everything..my whole body on the total gym. I'm not trying to turn myself into the hulk like I did in my 20's but some bulk in certain areas makes a huge difference.
@@bluez1981 I just got a used XLS for 250, so you definitely "made out like a bandit". Got mine set up today and noticed the top part of board will lift up off the rails if I sit low near the squat board. I do not know what is causing this or how to counteract it.
Looks a lot like the Total Gym 3000 model that I have. I use both sets of holes. I attach handles at the bottom and connect bands between the upper bar and the handles. For squats, I hold onto the lower bar. Silicone spray is great to use on the tower latch. Huck wheels are fantastic replacement wheels, far superior to the donut-shaped original wheels on the 3000.
@@hybridresistance My pleasure. I installed the Huck wheels 6 months ago, when one of my wheels cracked. The Huck wheels are absolutely incredible. Smoooth operation, beautifully engineered. Built to last a lifetime.
I always have trouble getting that center pin to pop through the hole on the tower. Not only that I kind of hate how sliding the rails up the tower picks up the support feet. Besides that I’ve really been enjoying it so far!
I own and frequently use an older Club 1700 model very similar to the XLS. The added weight bar is a great option. I use 160 lbs. added weight with the pullup attachment. Also lighter weights for chest routines. Great machine!
I love my xls, had it for 10+ years. Do you know where I can purchase a replacement cable and pulleys? Mine are rusting and cracking a bit on the cable coating. I dont see any on hucks site
For sure go to HuckProducts.com I've had two interviews with the owners and can't say enough about their products. You'll essentially have a better TG with their parts.
Good review....thanks for the FYI's......interested in a safe elevation method to simulate more resistance levels than 6...on the XLS ..I just purchased ..also your advice on what this potentially would benefit doing the raised up tower for increased exercising need safety advice how to implement. Most appreciative for any support
Here's a recent video on ways to add resistance you might find interesting. I've recently just been using cement blocks. Not saying it's the most stable thing in the world though. Others have told me they've used plastic milk crates. ua-cam.com/video/7rOCtebF5tU/v-deo.html
with the TG XLS, have you tried bench press exercise with the weight bar attach it on the top, something like this? ua-cam.com/video/AMK-REGyN54/v-deo.html Or this guy doing this hack for even better bench press with weight bar attachment: ua-cam.com/video/6LaSmOLMhts/v-deo.html Do you other TG model that has a weight bar holes on the top? Thanks
I have seen the first video and tried it, but personally I didn't get as much out of it compared to the other TG chest exercises. I think it would work best if you have another weight bar attachment down below to load plates, then that might feel better.
Yes, I've done that and shown in it in a couple videos (I think the last one as well). I personally don't like over the other chest exercises I do, but it is a cool exercise.
I saw an old video with an older gentlemen a long time ago, but I’ve shown featured it in other videos and have expressed I personally don’t like it compared to a basic TG press
You can get a weight bar attachment as well as add resistance bands to a variety of sites. I have a bunch of videos on this on my channel if you get a chance to check them out. I just posed a leg workout that shoes some exercises with bands attached.
You probably could, but I'd just wait to get a squat stand. I know they're sold out you could try these amzn.to/3R0u3VT I have one it's not too bad as long as you don't heavy stress on it. The Pilates /Toe Bar stand isn't bad either www.tkqlhce.com/click-100402910-12845302
I personally wouldn't worry about that causing a loss of muscle. Aside from your resistance training, your diet will likely play the largest role in how much muscle you could potentially gain or lose. Hope that helps
I bought the total gym fit and found a xls board for cheap. I have no issues with top weight bar attachment. No clicking or anything. I use the weight bar to flat bench press while lying on my back.
One thing that’s Also cool is the inverted cable shoulder press. With the weights on the bottom they get in the way, but with the top bar attachment, there’s no issues
I personally do not like main frame for the XLS, but I do like the sliding board better than the FIT sliding board. What I do, I swap the XLS board onto the FIT frame, the experience is great. It's different, you feel closer to ground and it feels more smooth and controlled. Plus with the XLS board, you have an additional slot near the top for the iron rod.
one more thing to mention, if you swap the boards you won't be able to fold the FIT total gym.with the XLS board..you always have to manually slide it in when the FIT is extended. * correction you can actually fold the FIT with XLS board...it's a little strange : )
@@eheheh3263 about the same in my opinion..the FIT is the best feel overall IMO.. however I like to be creative and sometimes I like to swap the boards
DON'T PURCHASE!!The machine is so awkward and difficult to assemble and re-assemble. Twice I've had to pay assemblers to put this monstrous machine together. "Folds up like an umbrella" is bullshit. I've actualy hurt my back trying to get this thing to work properly.
I just got one for 50 dollars in amazing condition. Older couple kept it in their storage and all i had to do was clean it
I’m about to get one for 100 same thing, I’ll have to clean it. I can’t wait to use it.
That’s a score. I paid $150 for a mint model with accessories. So much smoother and nicer than my old Pro model.
I've owned both models - nice thing is that some parts and attachments are interchangeable. For example, you can put the XLS glideboard on the Fit and vice versa. One thing I really liked about the XLS glideboard is that the board slightly overhangs the metal trim, so it gives you a place to grip the board on the sides. One Fit, the cheap plastic trim is flush with the edge of the board. I do prefer the height adjustment mechanism on the XLS vs the Fit -- seems sturdier and easier to use -- but I liked having the extra levels on the Fit.
I bought the XLS solely because of the upper bar and the ability to add larger weight plates.
Good point. I didn't think about the diameter possibly being an issue on the lower weight bar.
I dont kno what difference is between XL and XLS but I p/u my XL on craigslist for $150, very good condition. Few things....mine has metal handles and I agree, squat stand kinda sucks....I use the pilates bar for squats. The holes for weight bar are great for weights and bands....good stuff!!
Have opportunity to purchase one for $140 practically new. Would that be a good deal?
That's a good deal in my opinion.
I would buy it even without attatchments. Buy a resistance band or weight bar and you have a great machine
I have it and love it get a nice little pump. Not looking to get jacked just in shape and use it with my peleton.
Someone else may have mentioned this as well, not sure, but going from a shorter glide board to a longer glide board is a HUGE improvement if you’re tall like me. I’m 6’5” and 270 lbs. The wider glide board is also a huge plus. However, the average size person might prefer the smaller glide board. When I had a unit with the shorter board and I was laying down (face up) I could not get my feet and head on the board at the same time, so my head was always off the board. And the comfort level of the wider board really is luxurious when your taller than normal.
Another great review thanks. After getting the total gym fit we gave our XLS to our daughter in law for their jujitsu studio and everyone loves it including our 14 year grandson who is very involved in competition. These machines are the best.
That's great. These should be in every martial arts studio.
Great review. I have a few comments. The top weight bar has several benefits. First off, if you don't want to pay for weight plates, you can more easily improvise with longer items like jugs filled with sand since they won't hit the floor like they would on the bottom bar. Secondly, there are many unique things you can do with extra pulleys. Slide a carabiner with a pulley on each side and you can do more natural bench presses, upright rows and shoulder presses. Finally, it's another contact point to prevent the board from sliding out from under you. For example, with heavy shoulder presses, you can put your feet on the ends of the bar to make sure the board stays with you. I totally agree with you on the large squat stand. The round one doesn't seem to be much of an improvement over the small one.
How would you use the top weight bar to do bench press?
I really like the way this machine looks. I already had the FIT and found the xls less smooth and the rales noisy. I ended up giving it to my sister in law. I did not like the 6 levels and contemplated hubby drilling holes to make more levels. He's a contractor and he said he could do it with no damage. The FIT was just more comfortable for me. Better machine imo. I have the blue striped one.
Great points. Pretty cool your husband could make those additional holes.
Really enjoy your videos. One issue I found with my XLS was the amount of slop or play on the top casters to the glide rails. There is so much play that the outer guides on the board catch on the end of the glide rails on the down stroke on exercises like a squat. I remedied this by cutting the long outer caster spacer 1/8" shorter and adding 1/8" thick washer on the outside of the short inner spacer next to the caster. Did this on both sides. Now the play on the casters to the glide rails is the same as it is on my small frame total gym. (About 1/8" on both casters)
That is the exact issue I am experiencing. I have to give this a try. I always have to recenter after doing one arm pull ups/rows, or squats
Do you have photos you can email me? What tool did you use to cut?
Unfortunately I didn't take any pictures. I used a hack saw to cut the spacer in a vice. I used the two 1/16" washers stacked together to use as a gauge for the length to cut off. I allowed the spacer to extend out of the vice the thickness of the two washers and used the top of the vise as a guide so you get a straight cut. Also make sure to file off any burrs on the cut end of the spacer .
Don't cut off too much. Atleast if you cut the spacer a little long you can file it down. Just make sure the cut end of the spacer is smooth and flat.
I also placed the cut end of the spacer on the frame side, not the bearing/caster side when putting back together.
Does anyone experience their glideboard getting stuck back on the way down the railing? Seems like mine is hitting the bolts thats connect the top silver railing to the bottom black railing on the bottom. I always have to recenter my glideboard so it falls all the way to the bottom
Thanks for the review. I just bought a used XLS myself and it didn't come with any attachments. I'm looking to buy a few things in the coming weeks. I was tossed between the fit and XLS but your review made me think I made a pretty good choice. I'd sure like to get that toe bar from you.
Great to hear. I'll probably be giving away the toe bar in the near future on a give away of sorts. Thanks for watching and for the comments.
I set up my 3000 and my Elite side-by-side. The Elite came with a plethora of attachments, which are not interchangeable from small frame to large frame. I didn't want to spend additional dollars on attachments for the 3000, but I swapped the wheels/bearings on both models with Huck, and what a difference on both! I get a better burn with the 3000, but it really boils down to form, time under tension and rep to failure.
Find a model that works for you and work the model. I'm a TG fan!
I’ve been thinking about this. Even though there is only 6 levels, you can always add weights or bands so it shouldn’t really make a difference
Glad you made this video! I have owned my XLS for a little over 2 years and i didn't even know that there were 2 holes at the top of the glide board for external weight.( I bought mine used, no manual etc.) I just now removed them plastic tabs covering the holes . This will be so much better now that i can insert a weight bar at the top of the glide board to hold on to while doing squats. Looking forward to your comparison to the fit model. Also you can reverse that pull up bar for the XLS in the opposite direction for a different experience
That's good to know that information was helpful. I could see where you would not notice those holes.
I bought one used for about $150 used a month ago.
Glad you did the xls review
Happy to hear someone wanted to see it. Thanks for watching.
Do you use the Totalgym brand weight bar or a heavier duty bar?
I just use theirs.
I initially wanted an XLS when I started looking for one for myself. But I got extremely lucky and found a Fit MAX model. That came with the extra large squat stand the pull-up bars. Dip bars. Ab crunch attachment for $200. And I have fallen in love with mine. I've gained size and strength in just a month
Awesome !
$200 dollars for everything? Holy smokes!
@@Tomasquo yes sir. Met the lady that was selling it. Looked everything over looked brand new... All the attachments were good. Gave her $200 and loaded it up in my jeep. I'm very pleased I use it everyday. Some days I miss weights and I'll do some squats and bench press... My bench press has gone up! But I can do everything..my whole body on the total gym. I'm not trying to turn myself into the hulk like I did in my 20's but some bulk in certain areas makes a huge difference.
@@bluez1981 I just got a used XLS for 250, so you definitely "made out like a bandit". Got mine set up today and noticed the top part of board will lift up off the rails if I sit low near the squat board. I do not know what is causing this or how to counteract it.
@@Tomasquo I don't have a ton of experience with that model... Maybe just how it's made. Shouldn't be a big deal in my opinion... Enjoy it
It looks like you could make more settings by drilling a few holes in the vertical bar.
Been have told me they've done that.
how do you compare to a bowflex trainer?
I haven't used a Bowflex, but I believe these are better based on a number of factors.
Looks a lot like the Total Gym 3000 model that I have. I use both sets of holes. I attach handles at the bottom and connect bands between the upper bar and the handles. For squats, I hold onto the lower bar.
Silicone spray is great to use on the tower latch. Huck wheels are fantastic replacement wheels, far superior to the donut-shaped original wheels on the 3000.
Thanks for sharing, I've hearing a lot about those "huck" wheels.
@@hybridresistance My pleasure.
I installed the Huck wheels 6 months ago, when one of my wheels cracked.
The Huck wheels are absolutely incredible. Smoooth operation, beautifully engineered. Built to last a lifetime.
I always have trouble getting that center pin to pop through the hole on the tower. Not only that I kind of hate how sliding the rails up the tower picks up the support feet. Besides that I’ve really been enjoying it so far!
I have both and what I did was, I took the sliding board of the XL and placed it on the fit frame. I love this set up.
I own and frequently use an older Club 1700 model very similar to the XLS. The added weight bar is a great option. I use 160 lbs. added weight with the pullup attachment. Also lighter weights for chest routines. Great machine!
Question. I have the option to get a total gym 1800club or the total gym xsl.. what do u think would be the biggest difference?
@@Hvantress not much difference in my opinion. My 1700 model does everything I need it for. I still use mine 3x a week.
Just got this for free at the Job site can’t wait to try it 🎉
I love my xls, had it for 10+ years. Do you know where I can purchase a replacement cable and pulleys? Mine are rusting and cracking a bit on the cable coating. I dont see any on hucks site
For sure go to HuckProducts.com I've had two interviews with the owners and can't say enough about their products. You'll essentially have a better TG with their parts.
a guy is giving me this today..along with bringing me a Schwinn Evolution comp bike..Gotta love facebook marketplace.lol
Awesome. Don't have facebook, but I hear that marketplace is where it's at.
Good review....thanks for the FYI's......interested in a safe elevation method to simulate more resistance levels than 6...on the XLS ..I just purchased ..also your advice on what this potentially would benefit doing the raised up tower for increased exercising need safety advice how to implement. Most appreciative for any support
Here's a recent video on ways to add resistance you might find interesting. I've recently just been using cement blocks. Not saying it's the most stable thing in the world though. Others have told me they've used plastic milk crates. ua-cam.com/video/7rOCtebF5tU/v-deo.html
with the TG XLS, have you tried bench press exercise with the weight bar attach it on the top, something like this?
ua-cam.com/video/AMK-REGyN54/v-deo.html
Or this guy doing this hack for even better bench press with weight bar attachment:
ua-cam.com/video/6LaSmOLMhts/v-deo.html
Do you other TG model that has a weight bar holes on the top? Thanks
I have seen the first video and tried it, but personally I didn't get as much out of it compared to the other TG chest exercises. I think it would work best if you have another weight bar attachment down below to load plates, then that might feel better.
great review. Thank you
Hey I need a pilaties bar;😉
Cool. Was hoping you'd do this.
With the bar in the upper slot you can slide the cable underneath the bar lay back and do a benchpress like in the gym.
Yes, I've done that and shown in it in a couple videos (I think the last one as well). I personally don't like over the other chest exercises I do, but it is a cool exercise.
Are the components compatible with both the total gym force and the total gym XLS?
I can't say for sure, but by looking at the force it looks like it's on the APEX frames so it should.
Have you seen the way Skyler King uses the upper weight bar holes to add pulleys and redirect the resistance? It’s awesome!
I saw an old video with an older gentlemen a long time ago, but I’ve shown featured it in other videos and have expressed I personally don’t like it compared to a basic TG press
Do you recommend the Huck wheels for this model or is it not necessary?
Probably not. The huck wheels are great, but it will take some time for these base wheels on the xls to wear out.
Thank you! I ordered mine and will have it Monday 😁
Great to hear. You'll enjoy it.
We just got ours today! Hoping to accelerate my weight loss and build muscle.
Awesome to hear. Don't think you'll regret the purchase.
After a workout I can take a nap on it 😊. Is wide enough 😂 🇸🇻
Mostly likely yes!
I know your on this model but can you do a review on the new rowing machine from total gym
That's on my bucket list. Just a little pricey for me to drop the money right now.
I need something to use as a squat machine. Can you adjust the resistance of the slide?
You can get a weight bar attachment as well as add resistance bands to a variety of sites. I have a bunch of videos on this on my channel if you get a chance to check them out. I just posed a leg workout that shoes some exercises with bands attached.
Picked up one off for free from some sweet old lady who only used it 1 time
Great to hear. I honestly hear a similar story from so many people about this exact situation.
Will the xls one piece wing attachment work on the fit ?
I believe it would, yes.
Can I use my wing bar attachment for squats. I lost my squat stand and don't know where to get one.
You probably could, but I'd just wait to get a squat stand. I know they're sold out you could try these amzn.to/3R0u3VT I have one it's not too bad as long as you don't heavy stress on it. The Pilates /Toe Bar stand isn't bad either www.tkqlhce.com/click-100402910-12845302
@@hybridresistance thank you
Hey Mike, will I lose muscle if I exercise a lot (30mins; 3 days/week) on a rowing machine (concept 2)?
I personally wouldn't worry about that causing a loss of muscle. Aside from your resistance training, your diet will likely play the largest role in how much muscle you could potentially gain or lose. Hope that helps
@@hybridresistance Thanks so much. Great advice.
DO U FULLY RECOMMEND THIS?
I personally like the FIT better, but both machines are great in my opinion.
I bought the total gym fit and found a xls board for cheap. I have no issues with top weight bar attachment. No clicking or anything. I use the weight bar to flat bench press while lying on my back.
That's good to hear. I'm not sure why mine (and a few other people's) do that. Did you by chance order your board direct from TG?
No I ordered it on eBay used
One thing that’s Also cool is the inverted cable shoulder press. With the weights on the bottom they get in the way, but with the top bar attachment, there’s no issues
I personally do not like main frame for the XLS, but I do like the sliding board better than the FIT sliding board. What I do, I swap the XLS board onto the FIT frame, the experience is great. It's different, you feel closer to ground and it feels more smooth and controlled. Plus with the XLS board, you have an additional slot near the top for the iron rod.
one more thing to mention, if you swap the boards you won't be able to fold the FIT total gym.with the XLS board..you always have to manually slide it in when the FIT is extended. * correction you can actually fold the FIT with XLS board...it's a little strange : )
Is the fit quieter? Or the xls?
@@eheheh3263 about the same in my opinion..the FIT is the best feel overall IMO.. however I like to be creative and sometimes I like to swap the boards
How much was it ?
Roughly they go for 1k, I think I got this somewhere for 300-500, but I honestly forget now.
Very helpful. Thanks!
DON'T PURCHASE!!The machine is so awkward and difficult to assemble and re-assemble. Twice I've had to pay assemblers to put this monstrous machine together. "Folds up like an umbrella" is bullshit. I've actualy hurt my back trying to get this thing to work properly.
Why would you scream "DON'T PURCHASE!!" on the basis of such a narrow, isolated drawback and an experience that is clearly unique to you lol