only issue I have had with the Fit is having to make same adjustments using parts to get ride of some of the side to side movement after I replaced the wheels with the ones from Huck Products. Otherwise I agree about all your points. The other great thing about TG is content. Who else has so many videos for exercises and overall workouts for their machine? No one else that I have seen
Hey Mike, decided to share this here because I have the encompass (with strength and pilates packages) and also have access to the Total Gym Fit. I saw a comment from another user asking about the encompass or GTS so figured I could comment to maybe help the community. Please feel free to delete if it’s too wordy / not helpful :) For a start, I think the big difference between the GTS/Encompass and the FIT/XLS etc… besides the price is the build and target audience. The Encompass is a (very slightly) updated version of the GTS which has been Total Gyms commercial solution - think designed for use in a gym, professional home gym, rehab center etc… The difference between the GTS and Encompass is the rail mechanism (according to the Total gym rep that I spoke to, who said that they newer encompass has a revised metal rail for smoother glide). Outside of that whether somebody goes for the FIT, XLS, encompass, GTS… none of them are ‘good’ if you don’t use them! Mike demonstrates that you can get amazing results without having to pay commercial equipment prices. So what is the key differences between the FIT and Encompass? Getting back to the weight, the steel used in the encompass is significantly heavier and thicker. This results in a machine that is quite a bit taller, longer (if that is a benefit) or bulkier (if overall folded space is important to you). It also results in the GTS being warrantied to take 600lbs+ of weight. the weight bar itself is quite a bit heavier and clips attaches to the top of the glide board on the GTS (where larger plates can be added and less likely to hit against the floor). I wouldn’t be afraid loading up the FIT, but the GTS noticeably feels like it can take a LOT more weight and when loaded with weight does not wobble. It’s very planted. The GTS/Encompass has many attachment points at the front of the tower and back of the tower to clip the cables , attach resistance bands. You can achieve / hack the FIT to do the same, but it’s got a more natural place with the GTS due to the number of attachment points for additional carabiner clips, resistance bands etc.. The official ‘add on’ attachments for the GTS are also commercial grade and have a quicker to swap in and swap out mechanism to the FIT with some additional benefits… the GTS has built in lat bars with a greater range of adjustment points for the cable attachments allowing to hit muscles from different angles. There is a foldable (into the rail system) hamstring, leg curl bar and dip bars that pull out. All in all, it’s quicker to move between exercise in my experience. Sounds good so far right? yup. It’s an amazing commercial grade piece of equipment. Would I recommend others to buy one? Probably not actually - I think the FIT is 80% of the GTS for what most folks will want, especially when you factor in the cost and size benefits (will come back to this). Why did I go for the GTS? The GTS has one major advantage over the FIT - the GTS sliding bench can be placed at an different angles of degree from incline to flat. For somebody recovering from major back surgery or other injury this opens up a range of rehab exercises. This was a huge buying reason for me. That is not to say that you could not be inventive at all with the FIT, but just to say that the GTS allows for those additional exercises that are not easily achieved with the FIT where you need greater control over rotation around the lower lumbar area. The other BIG reason I’d recommend most folks to look at the FIT first is that the FIT is light enough to move around the house. While you can fold up the GTS and it has wheels, it’s a pain in the butt to move up or down stairs and that makes it a two person job to move. The wheels should only be viewed as a means to easily fold and move the GTS around the same room. A FIT you could take outdoors, easily move from a home exercise room to another room in the basement. I cannot emphasize the advantage of that from a livability perspective if you don’t have a dedicated exercise room. Hope this is helpful for those with interest in the GTS / Encompass - it really is incredible and I feel the most amazing piece of gym equipment. I have zero regrets, but wanted to speak to the livability aspects and the why I chose the Encompass over the FIT from the perspective of doubling up on rehab/physio. Thanks, Tom.
Thanks for sharing! I got a FIT for $250 off facebook marketplace and love it! I'm looking into the Encompass and GTS because of the greater rehab potential as you said and also because the glide board is longer. I'm 6'2-6'3 and the glide board on the FIT is just too short at my height but is barely doable. So for taller guys the GTS seems like a better option.
I'm major question for you about the GTS or encompass is height. I'm average height (5'9) currently at 265 and I've had 20+ years lifting weights. I've owned total gyms in years past but bought my current FIT model in December to rehab after bicep tendon rupture reattachment. And it's done absolutely great things for me.. my bicep surgery was in 2020 I'm completely healed and I've improved strength wise in what I was capable of pre surgery. So here's my question. My FIT goes up to level 14. Which right now is... Challenging enough. But legs and some back exercises it takes A LOT of reps to feel it. I'm use to barbell rows with 225lbs. How much higher dose the GTS go in height for resistance?
I have been considering getting a Total Gym Encompass. I am not new to sliding bench training and have been doing it now for nearly 3 years. I will use a sliding bench for life. Without a doubt. I know the price of the Encompass is not cheap, but i think in the long run it would be worth it.. if you are going to be dedicated to putting in quality time on it. I know that depends on each persons pocket book. I only own an xls. I have wing attachment and tricep rope, but i haven't bought a lot of accesories. If i had all the equipment you had, i'd sell all of it and buy an Encompass. No matter what you choose to do, keep up the good work that you do on your channel!
Thanks for the comments and suggestions. The price of the GTS is obviously the big issue with that machine, but there is a part of me that thinks I still might be gravitating to the less expensive models based that I can easily move them outdoors. I also would probably baby that machine and not be willing to do some of the things I do to these models.
I enjoy my GR8FLEX a lot. It was definitely new. I never heard of anyone unexpectedly getting a used one. For me, the resistance bands seem to be a sufficient alternative to a weight bar. I haven’t used any other sliding bench trainers, so I can’t say which one feels the best, but I definitely like the smoothness of the glide. The fact that it comes with just about all of the attachments at a lower price and comparable quality to the TG Fit was the selling point for me. Keep up the videos Mike, they’re very helpful in setting up a workout regimen.
I bought the Total Gym Pinnacle March of this year for under 300 dollars brand new. It is rated at 300 lbs and I am really liking it, I didn't know if I would enjoy using a Total Gym because my experience with them was limited so I was attracted to go cheap just in case. I do want to eventually upgrade so I appreciate this video, not that this machine is showing wear but time will tell. I can feel this machine flexing so a sturdier model like the Fit may be in my future.
My 1900 has stood the test of time. I rigged up a hack to add weight also. It has 12 levels also. But if it ever breaks I plan on going for the fit. You are convincing
After reading Tom's comment below I'll add stability is important! I did get off balance and my Pinnacle fell over dumping me hard on the floor. I think it was mostly my fault but because of it's lighter construction and narrow base it's not super stable.
Hey Mike, have you ever done a video about how quickly each model you have can change resistance levels? Say, changing three levels for each machine? I’m wondering if any of these machines have gotten faster since I bought my 11,000 in 2004. Thanks!
I prefer XLS model over the Fit. The XLS model has the option of using a weight bar at the top or bottom on the glide board. I did your see review on the use of the weight bar on the top of the glide board that had so so result. However, a fellow UA-camr who features the XLS model in his videos used the weight bar in the upper hole slot of the sliding bench and had a very smooth glide on the rails. Having the option of adding weights on the the top, bottom or on both ends of glide board makes the XLS (along with the sturdy build) my favorite over the Fit.
There does to be an issue with loading weight on the top weight bar on the XLS. I basically can't load any weight on there without having a clipping noise on mine. And others have written to me saying the same thing. I believe that is why TG has plugged the whole when you purchase new models as it was a defect in design.
Total Gym Fit. Heavier duty, handle greater weight. Like the 12 levels. Probably the best unit without going to commercial level, multi thousands of $$$.
I'd take any model that at least comes with the accessories that I'd want like the squat stand and handles for both top and bottom. Plus, it would have a weight limit access of about at least 300lbs.
Love your videos…I think the gr8flex is better. I have one and it’s cheaper, has the same attachments as the fit, higher level of difficulty. The weight bar is not that big of deal bc you can add bands and it comes with bands with it.
I have noticed that on Facebook marketplace, there is a Chuck Norris signature series in the description and would like to know if this is similar to the fit?
In order to do 1 arm movements like rows and presses, then I will Need to hook both cables to 1 hand grip. Like you did @9:26 of this video. Also do you ever do 1 arm presses or just the rows
Hi Hassan, unfortunately I don't other than knowing they are the older TG models that were very well built. I love to be able to interview someone from Total Gym to ask questions like this about the older models.
@@hybridresistance yeah exactly. I saw one on facebook marketplace for 150 and just looking at the frame it looks solid. Would be nice to know how much weight it can hold. I will also contact TG and see what they say :)
I can't find the "plus" one but really it comes down to price and attachments included. They are always updating and changing this so it's hard to say based on what you're seeing. Both models do have the extra increments on the tower I believe.
I ordered this model yesterday, and because I had heard it's a challenge for tall people, I asked their customer service, and they said it's a challenge for people over 6'2. I told her I'm 6'8, anmd she recommended cancelling until I do some more research. Can anyone please tell me if it's still worth buying this, at my height? I'd really appreciate any honest opinions, as I'd hate to miss the sale they're having.
Then only thing I'd add is that there's always the used market. Sometimes they are giving these away. Or you could try some of the home fitness stores to try it as they often carry refurbished "returned" models there as well.
@@hybridresistance do you know the weight limit on the total gym fit? Is it better than Total Gym Platinum Plus? I am wanting to cardio core training on it and notice to in Facebook for under $200 for the fit and $100 the Total Gym Platinum Plus. Basically combine it with the Harambe got a couple of weeks ago.
It would be this one amzn.to/3Qe9IMT I've been thinking for some time to do a review on it because many people have it and have told me how much they like it.
You have the best fitness channel! Not just for sliding bench either 💯🔥💯
Too kind Reynaldo. Happy to see you back in the comment section. Hope all is well with you.
only issue I have had with the Fit is having to make same adjustments using parts to get ride of some of the side to side movement after I replaced the wheels with the ones from Huck Products. Otherwise I agree about all your points. The other great thing about TG is content. Who else has so many videos for exercises and overall workouts for their machine? No one else that I have seen
Hey Mike, decided to share this here because I have the encompass (with strength and pilates packages) and also have access to the Total Gym Fit. I saw a comment from another user asking about the encompass or GTS so figured I could comment to maybe help the community. Please feel free to delete if it’s too wordy / not helpful :)
For a start, I think the big difference between the GTS/Encompass and the FIT/XLS etc… besides the price is the build and target audience. The Encompass is a (very slightly) updated version of the GTS which has been Total Gyms commercial solution - think designed for use in a gym, professional home gym, rehab center etc… The difference between the GTS and Encompass is the rail mechanism (according to the Total gym rep that I spoke to, who said that they newer encompass has a revised metal rail for smoother glide).
Outside of that whether somebody goes for the FIT, XLS, encompass, GTS… none of them are ‘good’ if you don’t use them! Mike demonstrates that you can get amazing results without having to pay commercial equipment prices.
So what is the key differences between the FIT and Encompass? Getting back to the weight, the steel used in the encompass is significantly heavier and thicker. This results in a machine that is quite a bit taller, longer (if that is a benefit) or bulkier (if overall folded space is important to you). It also results in the GTS being warrantied to take 600lbs+ of weight. the weight bar itself is quite a bit heavier and clips attaches to the top of the glide board on the GTS (where larger plates can be added and less likely to hit against the floor). I wouldn’t be afraid loading up the FIT, but the GTS noticeably feels like it can take a LOT more weight and when loaded with weight does not wobble. It’s very planted.
The GTS/Encompass has many attachment points at the front of the tower and back of the tower to clip the cables , attach resistance bands. You can achieve / hack the FIT to do the same, but it’s got a more natural place with the GTS due to the number of attachment points for additional carabiner clips, resistance bands etc..
The official ‘add on’ attachments for the GTS are also commercial grade and have a quicker to swap in and swap out mechanism to the FIT with some additional benefits… the GTS has built in lat bars with a greater range of adjustment points for the cable attachments allowing to hit muscles from different angles. There is a foldable (into the rail system) hamstring, leg curl bar and dip bars that pull out. All in all, it’s quicker to move between exercise in my experience.
Sounds good so far right? yup. It’s an amazing commercial grade piece of equipment. Would I recommend others to buy one? Probably not actually - I think the FIT is 80% of the GTS for what most folks will want, especially when you factor in the cost and size benefits (will come back to this).
Why did I go for the GTS? The GTS has one major advantage over the FIT - the GTS sliding bench can be placed at an different angles of degree from incline to flat. For somebody recovering from major back surgery or other injury this opens up a range of rehab exercises. This was a huge buying reason for me. That is not to say that you could not be inventive at all with the FIT, but just to say that the GTS allows for those additional exercises that are not easily achieved with the FIT where you need greater control over rotation around the lower lumbar area.
The other BIG reason I’d recommend most folks to look at the FIT first is that the FIT is light enough to move around the house. While you can fold up the GTS and it has wheels, it’s a pain in the butt to move up or down stairs and that makes it a two person job to move. The wheels should only be viewed as a means to easily fold and move the GTS around the same room. A FIT you could take outdoors, easily move from a home exercise room to another room in the basement. I cannot emphasize the advantage of that from a livability perspective if you don’t have a dedicated exercise room.
Hope this is helpful for those with interest in the GTS / Encompass - it really is incredible and I feel the most amazing piece of gym equipment. I have zero regrets, but wanted to speak to the livability aspects and the why I chose the Encompass over the FIT from the perspective of doubling up on rehab/physio. Thanks, Tom.
Thanks for sharing! I got a FIT for $250 off facebook marketplace and love it! I'm looking into the Encompass and GTS because of the greater rehab potential as you said and also because the glide board is longer. I'm 6'2-6'3 and the glide board on the FIT is just too short at my height but is barely doable. So for taller guys the GTS seems like a better option.
Thanks so much Tom for that detailed comment. I'm sure a lot of people will find this information useful.
I'm major question for you about the GTS or encompass is height. I'm average height (5'9) currently at 265 and I've had 20+ years lifting weights. I've owned total gyms in years past but bought my current FIT model in December to rehab after bicep tendon rupture reattachment. And it's done absolutely great things for me.. my bicep surgery was in 2020 I'm completely healed and I've improved strength wise in what I was capable of pre surgery. So here's my question. My FIT goes up to level 14. Which right now is... Challenging enough. But legs and some back exercises it takes A LOT of reps to feel it. I'm use to barbell rows with 225lbs. How much higher dose the GTS go in height for resistance?
I have been considering getting a Total Gym Encompass. I am not new to sliding bench training and have been doing it now for nearly 3 years. I will use a sliding bench for life. Without a doubt. I know the price of the Encompass is not cheap, but i think in the long run it would be worth it.. if you are going to be dedicated to putting in quality time on it. I know that depends on each persons pocket book. I only own an xls. I have wing attachment and tricep rope, but i haven't bought a lot of accesories. If i had all the equipment you had, i'd sell all of it and buy an Encompass. No matter what you choose to do, keep up the good work that you do on your channel!
Thanks for the comments and suggestions. The price of the GTS is obviously the big issue with that machine, but there is a part of me that thinks I still might be gravitating to the less expensive models based that I can easily move them outdoors. I also would probably baby that machine and not be willing to do some of the things I do to these models.
I bought the Fit model because of you and I love it!
Thanks for sharing that and happy to hear you like it.
I enjoy my GR8FLEX a lot. It was definitely new. I never heard of anyone unexpectedly getting a used one. For me, the resistance bands seem to be a sufficient alternative to a weight bar. I haven’t used any other sliding bench trainers, so I can’t say which one feels the best, but I definitely like the smoothness of the glide. The fact that it comes with just about all of the attachments at a lower price and comparable quality to the TG Fit was the selling point for me. Keep up the videos Mike, they’re very helpful in setting up a workout regimen.
Thanks for sharing William. I know a lot people have the GF and love it as well.
I bought the Total Gym Pinnacle March of this year for under 300 dollars brand new. It is rated at 300 lbs and I am really liking it, I didn't know if I would enjoy using a Total Gym because my experience with them was limited so I was attracted to go cheap just in case. I do want to eventually upgrade so I appreciate this video, not that this machine is showing wear but time will tell. I can feel this machine flexing so a sturdier model like the Fit may be in my future.
My 1900 has stood the test of time. I rigged up a hack to add weight also. It has 12 levels also. But if it ever breaks I plan on going for the fit. You are convincing
I have the fit. Got it new many years ago. Still love it and use it all the time.
Great to hear.
After reading Tom's comment below I'll add stability is important! I did get off balance and my Pinnacle fell over dumping me hard on the floor. I think it was mostly my fault but because of it's lighter construction and narrow base it's not super stable.
Hey Mike, have you ever done a video about how quickly each model you have can change resistance levels? Say, changing three levels for each machine? I’m wondering if any of these machines have gotten faster since I bought my 11,000 in 2004. Thanks!
I haven't make a video on that, but it's really just a pull of a pin to move it up and down.
I prefer XLS model over the Fit. The XLS model has the option of using a weight bar at the top or bottom on the glide board. I did your see review on the use of the weight bar on the top of the glide board that had so so result. However, a fellow UA-camr who features the XLS model in his videos used the weight bar in the upper hole slot of the sliding bench and had a very smooth glide on the rails. Having the option of adding weights on the the top, bottom or on both ends of glide board makes the XLS (along with the sturdy build) my favorite over the Fit.
There does to be an issue with loading weight on the top weight bar on the XLS. I basically can't load any weight on there without having a clipping noise on mine. And others have written to me saying the same thing. I believe that is why TG has plugged the whole when you purchase new models as it was a defect in design.
Total Gym Fit. Heavier duty, handle greater weight. Like the 12 levels. Probably the best unit without going to commercial level, multi thousands of $$$.
Nice video, i can get a fit practically new for 300 or a xl7 for 150 you think it's worth paying the extra for the fit, thanks
I'd take any model that at least comes with the accessories that I'd want like the squat stand and handles for both top and bottom. Plus, it would have a weight limit access of about at least 300lbs.
Love your videos…I think the gr8flex is better. I have one and it’s cheaper, has the same attachments as the fit, higher level of difficulty. The weight bar is not that big of deal bc you can add bands and it comes with bands with it.
Does it fold away like the Total Gym?
Dude, you have the best body ever! not too big not too small, not douchebaggy at all! you are officially the guy I want to look like. huge fan!
Thanks Ezra and thanks for watching.
I have the total gym force that goes up to 12. What level do you recommend for beginners for squats female. thanks
I have noticed that on Facebook marketplace, there is a Chuck Norris signature series in the description and would like to know if this is similar to the fit?
They make other models, but the signature serious is really just a chuck Norris signature on the glide board.
I can see this being better with some modifications
In order to do 1 arm movements like rows and presses, then I will
Need to hook both cables to 1 hand grip. Like you did @9:26 of this video. Also do you ever do 1 arm presses or just the rows
I do one arm presses on occasion, but rarely.
hi mike. do you have any info on the total gym by westbend? I can't find anything on that model.
Hi Hassan, unfortunately I don't other than knowing they are the older TG models that were very well built. I love to be able to interview someone from Total Gym to ask questions like this about the older models.
@@hybridresistance yeah exactly. I saw one on facebook marketplace for 150 and just looking at the frame it looks solid. Would be nice to know how much weight it can hold. I will also contact TG and see what they say :)
Dude you look way bigger then last year 🤙🤙
Appreciate it. Thanks for the positive comment.
I see 2 models of the total gym fit..the Max and the plus..Which of the 2 would be better..They are both the samw price on the TSC...Thnx
I can't find the "plus" one but really it comes down to price and attachments included. They are always updating and changing this so it's hard to say based on what you're seeing. Both models do have the extra increments on the tower I believe.
I ordered this model yesterday, and because I had heard it's a challenge for tall people, I asked their customer service, and they said it's a challenge for people over 6'2. I told her I'm 6'8, anmd she recommended cancelling until I do some more research. Can anyone please tell me if it's still worth buying this, at my height? I'd really appreciate any honest opinions, as I'd hate to miss the sale they're having.
Then only thing I'd add is that there's always the used market. Sometimes they are giving these away. Or you could try some of the home fitness stores to try it as they often carry refurbished "returned" models there as well.
Total gym fit or other models build muscle and looks like doing cardio at the same time is that correct?
If you do higher reps / shorter rest periods, you can definitely get some cardiorespiratory fitness out of it as well.
@@hybridresistance do you know the weight limit on the total gym fit? Is it better than Total Gym Platinum Plus? I am wanting to cardio core training on it and notice to in Facebook for under $200 for the fit and $100 the Total Gym Platinum Plus. Basically combine it with the Harambe got a couple of weeks ago.
I have the tg platinum looking for a XLI model here in the uk with the added dip bars
I got stay up to date with what you guys have in the UK
I have a total gym xl and I just picked up a weider today for 60 bucks.
What one do you prefer
What the best exercise for lower pecs thanks 🙏
I like to sit (like in the thumbnail) and do a low fly with a squeeze.
@@hybridresistance thank you 🙏
I take mine outside frequently.
What Total gym do you recommend in the $500 range?
You can find a fit on marketplace for that price range. Just take your time.
Always check QVC....they often times have very good deals that include the good accessories.
It would be this one amzn.to/3Qe9IMT I've been thinking for some time to do a review on it because many people have it and have told me how much they like it.
@@hybridresistance Thanks, Would also love to see a comparison video.
@@ELDogStar You definitely can, I got mine for $250 on marketplace. And in my Area there are a couple right now for around 500.
👍