I Was Wrong About a Total Gym...

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Going over a primary area that I believe I may have been wrong in recommending a Total Gym (or other sliding bench trainers) for the most people in their home gym. While it's still a hands down contender for one of the most versatile, affordable, durable, and efficient home gym pieces. It may however may not be ideal for most people who are just jumping into it and not considering some of the points I get into in this video.
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DISCLAIMER:
Hybrid Resistance KZbin channel is not responsible for any injuries, illnesses, or death sustained from following the exercises demonstrated or fitness advice discussed in this video. By following the information and performing the exercises provided, you are responsible for any and all injuries sustained. It is strongly recommended you consult your physician before starting any exercise or diet program.
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[@loulopez554]

After being a gym rat as a young guy I tried the total gym in my forties, and once I got the hang of it I realized only my lack of imagination could stop me from doing what I needed. But it's all about what you put into it.

[@hybridresistance]

You got it Lou! Using that God given creativity I know that you're good at.

[@nicolapinna5140]

I think that the total gym is one of the most underrated training tool. You can work on strength, resistance, mobility etc in low time with great results😉

[@garywinterscoachablemoment7029]

My two cents: I'm 73, woefully out of shape, no core strength, no flexibility, you name it. I bought a TG Extreme (sort of a baby TG) a few weeks ago off Marketplace. I quickly found out how intimidating the TG can be just to get OFF and ON. But - did I give it up? Nope - I just lowered my expectations on how quickly I would master it. As they say, "Slow and steady wins the day," and that's been my motto for the TG. I'm only doing a fraction of the exercises that are possible - but I'm building confidence, comfort and a sense of expertise with the machine. There will be plenty of time for complete mastery. In the meantime, I have something - at home - which will accept me at my own pace, let me learn while growing flexible and stronger, etc. The TG probably isn't for everyone, as you say. But for those who are willing to take their time, s-l-o-w down, and take it just a little piece at a time, it appears to be a good solution. I'm already looking for a good deal on a Fit or GTS on Marketplace. Thought I had found one; it fell through so the hunt continues.

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks for sharing that Gary. Love all those great tips coming from a real world user.

[@bryanbuoni8111]

Hi Gary - did you find a Fit? I have a Fit Anniversary model for sale with all of the attachments. Let me know if you are interested. Thanks!

[@garywinterscoachablemoment7029]

@@bryanbuoni8111 I never did find a Fit on Marketplace BUT I did find a GTS professional model that currently sells for $4,000 for $300 so I snapped it up. I installed some Huck rollers and a new cable and it's pretty much as good as new. While it doesn't have some of the bells and whistles of a new Encompass, it also came with most of the attachments in the Strength Package (another $800 value today). So - I'm pretty set for now. But thanks for thinking of me and for making the offer. Good luck with your sale!

[@vinnylivoti9567]

Mike the Total Gym is just that a Total Gym. It is time proven. It had changed very little over the years and has stood the test of time that it is still around today. So many exercise machines have come and gone. The Total Gym is still standing. I had mine from the early 90's like the one Chuck Norris endorsed in the back of martial arts magazines. It did take a bit to get used to using it but after that it was a blast to use. Coming from free weights. I could get a fast effective work out with it every time. If you are going for size then noting will beat free weights. However, if you want to stay fit and flexible and gain some size the Total Gym can get the job done. I have to say Mike when I stumbled on to your channel; you have taken the Total Gym to the next level showing us stuff most people would not even think was possible on this machine. I want to thank you for that. On a serious note, Total Gym should have you doing their infomercial with the master himself, Chuck Norris. I think they would almost double their sales if people could see what is possible with this amazing machine.

[@hybridresistance]

Too kind Vinny. You're one of the classic supporters/watchers on the channel and I always appreciate you my friend. I'll never rid of my Chuck Norris "signature series"!

[@thoth80]

I must admit my first exposure to the TG was by a friend who after not seeing him for a year showed up all swoll and buff! He was always energetic and athletic but it was like wow with a six pack. Then he explained it wall all total gym. Even his legs and calves. For that he used the squat stand and used a thick resistance band under it to do dead dead lifts.

[@hybridresistance]

@@thoth80 he sounds like one that mastered the art of the sliding bench.

[@MyHomeGym_]

For the Total Gym, it takes a bit of skill to get the mechanics down - but once you develop those skills, you will discover a wide verity of exercise options. Lots of potential, and mostly thanks to you and your channel, Mike!

[@hybridresistance]

@@MyHomeGym_ don’t sell yourself short Larry, you’re doing awesome stuff over there with the machine and the channel. Thanks again, brother.

[@ScottyDan]

At 59, I find the TG fits where I’m at in my life. Between the TG, a pair of dumbbells and an adjustable bench, I’m good to go.

[@hybridresistance]

@@ScottyDan can’t deny that combo. The adjustable dumbbells open up so many more doors alongside the TG.

[@marcmera6733]

In my last house, I had a bunch of commercial equipment I bought from a gym that went out of business and loved it, but it took up a ton of space honestly in my new house I don’t have near the space and I love my total gym. thanks to your videos, I added the weight bar and resistance bands, and it works perfect for all my needs.

[@hybridresistance]

@@marcmera6733 I hear you my friend. even though I got new toys, I know that only are a few are needed for home fitness results. Thanks for watching

[@ndenman420]

For people new to resistance training the Total Gym is superior, in my opinion, for these reasons. 1) The problems of stability on a sliding bench usually come from lack of coordination and a weak core. 2) The new user should workout on a lower incline and do more reps; while strengthening their core and gaining the coordination needed. 3) The Total Gym allows for good range of motion and stretching. Conclusion: The new user can get used to the machine using lighter weights and good stretching which, theoretically, will lower the chance of injury. As one gets stronger and more comfortable they can increase the incline and intensity. If one accepts, and expects, learning the total gym will take 3 months (upper limit), then expectations meet reality and all is well. There is a problem, in life in general, when expectations are out of sync with reality; that's the real problem. If one uses the slower learning curve as a way to stretch tight muscles, gain coordination, and strengthen core in a safe way that reduces potential injury then the slow learning curve is used to gain a solid foundation in a 'safer' way (theoretically).

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks for the great and detailed comment my friend!

[@victorgatelljr.5753]

I was hoping you were not going to the dark side, lol. After watching the entire video, I think I understand. I'm sure there are many of us out here (over 60) that love the TG and have no desire to hit the local gym, nor clutter our garages with equipment we will not use. Before you feel like you were "wrong", here's what you did for me two years ago; you reminded me that the TG does not have to be a soft training system and that it can be used aggressively to gain muscle and strength. Something I had almost given up on at my age (66). The benefits to the core, especially at my age, from doing most exercises is a bonus. Your creativity in adaptation, and the fact that you know the proper mechanics of exercise, makes us feel safe and allow us to dare to push a little harder. Finally, remember that for every 20-year-old that shakes his head when watching your TG training, there are 20 of us older guys that appreciate the guidance, especially when there is so little out there for our age group. I'll be dammed if I'm going to be working out in a chair!

[@hybridresistance]

Really appreciate the write up and comment Victor. There truly is an art to the total gym. On a side note, I've been seeing these adds for these "chair workouts". My mom told me years ago this was an untapped market.

[@obpuckcast4794]

Legs work best by using 41”loop bands to augment. I just wrap them around the weight bar and the squat stand so the effect is like a hack squat

[@hybridresistance]

@@obpuckcast4794 I used to love that face down on the glide board.

[@brianscott8456]

I must be one of those rare ones that just get it right away. Lucky me.

[@hybridresistance]

Or just one of the patient ones who didn't give up on it! That's probably the biggest one.

[@mugman2582]

Absolutely spot on mike. That's a perfect way to put it. I will also say you looked your absolute best hands down when you were using the total gym outside a few summers ago with just the addition of a vest and a few bands.

[@hybridresistance]

I think you've told me that before. I'll take the hint that I've let myself go! Well, I'll see if I get it back as I kick back in the outdoor sliding bench training workouts.

[@mugman2582]

​@@hybridresistanceLOL I didn't mean it that way. I would kill to have your physique. I just mean you looked your best while using the least amount of equipment.

[@hybridresistance]

@@mugman2582 haha I took offense my man. But I’m trying to get down a bit in weight and go back to my older style of random splits.

[@josefdeigner1045]

Not a negative critique..but when I found your site almost 3 yrs ago when you were SBT I thought this is exactly what I need..and no negative comment on your physique but I save and review your videos from 2 yrs ago as motivation for the ideal physique that I aim to achieve on my fitness journey..learned so much valuable training tips from you...Keep up the gr8 work

[@hybridresistance]

@@josefdeigner1045 no offense taken brother. I can tell you the biggest difference from then and now was that I was about 10lbs lighter. But my diet, and definitely my overall physical activity was different during that time.

[@terrybriggs3289]

Pound for pound....one of the best designs out there.

[@Cokblokula]

X3's new hypertrophy protocol is out (although the videos are yet to come), and I can't wait to get your opinions on the new programming. Good job as always Mike,

[@hybridresistance]

I saw that email come through yesterday. I likely will do a video on that soon. Thanks again.

[@MC7791]

it may take some time but IMO the Total Gym is totally worth it. I am not knocking other machines and the TG is my first real home Gym. Yes you have to be careful and there is a learning curve but Total Gym has plenty of how to videos on how to do the exercises but there is no end to variety. I have even found a different way to work the obliques that I didnt see in a video. If you put the effort into it I feel the Total Gym is totally worth it. A company that has been around for 50 years would not still be around if their product did not work. I like how it can be folded up and moved and does not take up a lot of space. Not to mention to many workouts here on youtube for free

[@hybridresistance]

@@MC7791 thanks Mike for sharing your experience. I know you are passionate about the machine.

[@cronoscoin417]

Total gym shines for those who want to have strength for just daily living, carrying groceries, walking up stairs, chasing your dog than ran out the front door 😅 But not going to become a "natty" fitness influencer

[@fastmamajama]

i got one at home i usually do a few sets after push ups, pull ups and dips. i got a custom grips and rotors for the cables and a elastic band attached to the board. add ons are less than $8

[@handoromper7987]

You just need a Bullworker and or Isokinator These two devices will give you insane strength

[@kriswempa5171]

Everything you said makes sense. It's much easier for somebody who has been working out for many years to understand the strengths and weaknesses of a Total Gym. For some exercises, like seated rows, the TG works great without changes/adjustments/extra equipment. Others work better with variations or supplemental equipment. Still others are best suited to completely different devices like barbells or dumbbells. For those who are experienced, it's fairly easy to recognize what works and what doesn't and to make the necessary changes.

[@hybridresistance]

Excellent insightful comment as always Kris. If you've got some experience already, you'll start discovering right away the stuff that really works well on the machine.

[@xdmc005]

Interesting video. In my personal opinion, if you stick with the basics, the learning curve is relatively short on a TG. I will grant that some of the more "creative" movements you've come up with over the years require a little bit more coordination and balance; but I don't think those are the movements someone who is brand new to the space are going to be jumping straight into. I also don't think (again, just my personal opinion) that comparing it to the ease of using a piece of gym equipment that is specifically designed to work one muscle group is truly analogous. If someone has the space to house all of the gym equipment you have, the time to drive to a commercial gym, or the finances for either (a refurb or used TG can be found pretty cheap, comparatively), then I think they would do those things instead of getting a TG or other SBT. Anyway, I know that was a fairly specific and short point of the video to hone in on; but it jumped out at me and it's a slow morning at the office with many people getting ready for vaca, so I thought I'd chime in. Anyway, I appreciate the videos, the reviews, and all the content. Have a great weekend!

[@hybridresistance]

For sure. As much as I've shown a bunch of novel (albeit some cumbersome) exercises, you know my core stuff is only about 5-10 exercises. Here's a link for anyone who's never seen my general foundation workout kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoesoKOtba2jsMU Thanks so much for that comment, great points all around.

[@shawnpaulzuccarellorizzo]

Yup....it requires that advanced mind muscle connection. Same for free weights though. If you don't know how a muscle moves or how to contract said muscle, it's just moving weight for no reason.

[@hybridresistance]

@@shawnpaulzuccarellorizzo thanks Shawn. An old saying, I heard “the body knows movements, not muscles” This is probably your shortest comment by the way! I’m always looking forward to what you’re gonna write when I see you post

[@donaldcaruso-hc7of]

I use loop bands,that is the only way I can get any kind of pump with my total gym especially legs.

[@williamwadejr5302]

In my experience there is no such thing as a do all anything but Total Gym is pretty close. My leg strength always outgrew it’s capability. I found that squats and deadlifts are something you reserve for the bar just put them in the circuit and it works out fine.

[@hybridresistance]

Amen William

[@buddyryan875]

There is a lot of stuff you can do on TG just laying on it. Or sitting indian style. For HIIT cardio is excellent! Arms excellent, shoulders & back excellent. For slow HIT it's excellent. For chest and legs is just ok. Not married to my TG still find myself getting on it 1-3 times a week! This is with have access to 2 gyms and an X3! TG is by far the most fun piece of exercise equipment I've ever been on! Will always own one!

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks Buddy! One thing I failed to mention in the video is that a sliding bench trainer would be worth alone for the outdoor workouts. Forgot how great those feel with that sun.

[@taylorpark3544]

I think it all comes down to a person's adaptability and experience. The more coordinated a person is, the more balance they have; the easier it is for them to pick things up. But I agree if a person doesn't know what the muscles should feel like and good form it can be a tough learning curve and might create a negative experience. I've been training for over 15 years so it was easy and natural for me to adjust to the Total Gym. But my wife who is untrained recently played with it and picked up most of the exercises pretty good with only a small form correction here or there from me. But my wife learns things easy and is willing to take some time to get something down, so a part of your personality makes a difference for sure. For completely untrained individuals, yeah it might not be the best place to get started. I will wish I had this device back when I was a teenager training at home. Thanks again Mike for sharing your experience with the Total Gyms, its made a big difference in my training overall.

[@hybridresistance]

Thank so much Taylor. Awesome to hear both you and your wife are taking advantage of it.

[@TomOhle1]

yet again. great video mike and you’re looking good man. kinda like arnies special ops crew in predator. have been going though your older follow along workouts recently. have been mixing it up with pacing of the reps are feel of the exercises. definitely makes a difference to me anyway on the Total Gym and something i think that probably gets overlooked on the TG as a way of keeping things fresh and interesting for the body. anyway godbless and keep on truckin

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks Tom. If I look, the lighting must have been good that day. What I really need are you professional photography skills! You're a good example of someone who has stuck with the TG and keeps learning. And it obviously shows each time I see you.

[@Buddhamind11]

It’s the best bicep pump and tricep pump I get. I have a really good muscle mind connection with the total body when using it for arms. I can load weights on mine

[@hybridresistance]

I hear you on that.

[@keithkiser7011]

I'm 58 now, and I love my total gym!

[@hybridresistance]

Love it Keith. Which model do you have?

[@keithkiser7011]

@@hybridresistance XLS. Love the smooth flow from one exercise to the next!

[@RobertCombs70]

@@keithkiser7011 will be 54 aug 31st, Been using xls for at least 4 years now. Bought the Mac Block which helps me with the tower level issue compared to the fit. I don't need anything else for my workout needs. SBT always said doing something is better than doing nothing. :-)

[@ericmalitz]

“Not the best thing without some coaching…” Applies to anything else as well, though gym-goers don’t want to admit it.

[@hybridresistance]

AMEN to that. A good coach / teacher (in anything) is always valuable.

[@johncrankshaft2886]

I saw a video of you earlier about 4 hours ago, i got on marketplace and actually found a 2022 model Fit for $60. Just got home and gonna put it thru the first session, for the price i got very lucky as it has the squat plate and wing attachments.

[@hybridresistance]

Very nice.

[@johncrankshaft2886]

@@hybridresistance i was just looking at your 20 minute workout video, im definitely eager to try some of the exercises you showed, however some i will stay away as i have blown rotators in the past; which is the reason why i stopped working out over a decade ago. My initial impression though is that i liked it, i have been fighting the urge to go back and do more.

[@mindripperful]

Chuck Norris !!!

[@mrqualityreviewer4752]

Still loving my total gym it gets good results. Very versatile piece of equipment

[@hybridresistance]

@@mrqualityreviewer4752 great to hear as I know you’re trying other things

[@mrqualityreviewer4752]

@@hybridresistance it’s still my go to for resistance training.

[@mrqualityreviewer4752]

@@hybridresistanceoff topic I was researching the concept 2 rower as possibly add on cardio to my Versaclimber. Do you still use it our really not your go to for cardio anymore

[@hybridresistance]

@@mrqualityreviewer4752 I’ve since given away the versa climber knock off and sold the concept 2. I didn’t really want to sell the rower, but it was taking up space and I simply wasn’t using it much to my surprise.

[@ronmartinelli5772]

What you get from Total gym is quality. I have an XL Mens and I love it. I've had ot for well over 10 years and I regularly use it. In fact, once I don't use it for a week or so due to long hours at work, I miss it. The resistance is real. Especially upper body. Definitely legit. Legs not so much but you will gain flexibility and strength for sure

[@briand5047]

I watched the TG infomercial a few weeks ago on Comedy Central. Probably been about 30 years since I watched one. A few hours later, I had the thought that I don't think they said the price once in the 1/2 hour. I haven't rewatched to confirm yet. But I do wonder how many grandmas order from QVC, think they will easily fold it up, intend to return it, and never do.

[@hybridresistance]

@@briand5047 I think this is a gigantic portion of a demographic. not saying specifically grandmas, but definitely people who are watchingQVC at that time.

[@keithmac7596]

What ?

[@tjc525]

I love the TG. Along with calisthenics and bands it works well, especially for older lifters....no joint pain. However leg exercises are not ideal for gaining size and strength. The key is time under tension. Sliding trainers make people flow through the movements. No.....slow down the cadence and you will feel the.muscles work. If you wanna be a.pro body builder then no the TG is not for you. It's great to just stay in shape. Don't forget proper diet with added protein intake

[@davidhernandez846]

Has anyone had any shoulder issues using the TotalGym? I have had mine for four years now but have since developed some shoulder pain. The constant reaching back and pulling on the cables could be the cause. Then again I also add additional weight to the weight bar. Never had any issues with free weights. I love the machine. I still use it till this day . I used to go the gym 5 days a week but bow I prefer to workout from home and the machine allows me to get the most out of my workouts. I do have other equipment to supplement the TotalGym since it has its limitations but it serves t's purpose.

[@hybridresistance]

@@davidhernandez846 you can definitely overdo it with the total gym and I’ve learned that a time or two. That’s where I personally feel having other equipment keeps things interesting, and also avoids any repetitive stress injuries, regardless of machine

[@mariolp2999]

but it's 1200 dollars.. if were maybe 100 bucks...lol

[@hybridresistance]

Go used and you'll find that price or you can literally get them for free.

[@mariolp2999]

@@hybridresistance for free!.. I would like that very much...

[@mikeervin7654]

You have progressed to showing other equipment on you're channel which is cool to. But I remember you're new wave bodybuilding video and you looked jacked as hell. You proved it is great. For legs add a weight bar.

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks Mike! I still stand by that "new wave" philosophy as I'd say a typical session with or without a TG is still a little unorthodox to most people's typical routine in the home gym.

[@trellwiggins2539]

Facts brother 💪💪💪

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks man.

[@SkylerKingTW]

I am working out of town, for the next 8 months. Monday through Friday, I am in Taoyuan. I go home to Taichung on the weekends to spend time with my family. It became very obvious very quickly that i did not want to spend my weekends trying to play catch up in the gym. I needed a way to train while I was out of town. The first week, I took my TRX and a bunch of resistance bands (both tube style and loop style). It was better than nothing, but I simply couldn't get into the right mindset with that stuff. It is one thing to do a specific exercise with bands or with the TRX because it feels good. But trying to do an entire workout with them really bothers me. Just too many compromises and some exercises simply don't work as well as I want them to. So, the second week I loaded my old Total Gym XLS into the back of my car and I now have it set up in my room in Taoyuan. It turned out to be a great solution. I still have the TRX and the bands for a few exercises that they really shine with, but the bulk of my workouts are done on the Total Gym. It isn't perfect, obviously, and there are some short comings, but overall it is a fantastic choice and I am VERY happy I have it as an option. Edit: I forgot to add, I just came across an old/original Bullworker X5 and decided to pick it up. I had never even heard of these until you did your videos about the Bullworker stuff. I am going to see how much usefulness I can squeeze out of it, though. Any suggestions or tips would be appreciated...

[@hybridresistance]

That's awesome and very cool to hear about how the machine has pulled through for you yet again. I think you saw this video already kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6nUeZmZjpiYr7s (the folding chair video). Those are my main staples when I pick it up and use it. If you got your TRX straps you can do some creative things anchoring them to the straps. I actually got the new x5 awhile back and have been meaning to do another video with it. So you might have motivated me with this comment. Straight up old school set up you got there for sure. I love it.

[@gianlucacerri4398]

Very well said! There is a learning curve, but if you stick with it, it stands the test of time. This was a very insightful review. I agree wholeheartedly... patience and coaching are key. Initially, I bought the Elevate GTS after watching several of your videos. At first, I had trouble reconciling the message in your video given the awkwardness of the exercises on the sliding bench. However, once I gained footing and found how to properly BALANCE my body while the bench slides, it outperformed my expectations.

[@hybridresistance]

@@gianlucacerri4398 very excellent to hear and thank you for the kind words

[@TheMikeWash]

Great video man. Good explanations. Good advice. I just picked one up from a family member - and this gives me a good idea of what's possible with it. The Chuck Norris infomercials are kind of a distant memory - so this was helpful.

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks so much Mike for the comment and for watching

[@edwardtodd6160]

Thanks Mike!! As with everything, people always want the one-stop-shop panacea for anything. Keep up with the videos!

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks so much Edward

[@thoth80]

You nailed it. Total Gym is great but ...

[@garywinterscoachablemoment7029]

Has anyone ever told you that you look like the main character (Harvey) in Suits? I'm streaming all 9 seasons right now and I swear the two of you could be brothers.

[@hybridresistance]

haha no, I had to look that up because while I vaguely have heard of that show, I had no idea who the character was. Just going off the pictures, maybe it's more of my head shape. But I can kind of see it. The only thing I get often on the channel is Mark Cuban.

[@ked4864]

I haven't used my Total Gym much; I'm someone for whom it hasn't clicked. I like the gym, at home I use some kettlebells and dumbbells...the Total Gym is in the way. However, you effectively telling me to not expect much out of it for legs -- that was an epiphany. I think you're right; stick to it for upper body, do something else for legs. I was wasting my time trying to do the "whole body" exercise....

[@hybridresistance]

@@ked4864 thank you for watching and for the comment. Just like everything, and every device will be for everyone. Let me know later if you end up sticking with it.

[@dalebiskey2808]

When I was younger, going to the gym, I had to learn to properly use the equipment, learn proper form, and that's true no matter what ya use for working out. At 63, some resistance bands with the TG, I can get a great workout in, and greatly cut the time. That's the real advantage. But yer right, might not be for everyone. Sure am glad I have mine. Thanks for the video.

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks Dale for sharing that.

[@altonm9371]

I'm in my 60s, I spent lots of time at the gym in the 80s, then wore out 2 Bullworkers in my late twenties (springs broke) then settled into the Total gym, I am on my 3rd one, I also do occasional Deadlifts and free weights & Rowing all at home. Out of everything I've tried the Total gym is the only must have piece of equipment, it is essential for me.

[@hybridresistance]

@@altonm9371 that says a lot that you wore out 2 old school bullworkers. You’re dedicated for sure.

[@76v8jeep]

I love this machine, I find I work out more and hit different angle on muscles that I can’t on plate machines. It also works the core on most exercises as a side benefit along with your stabilizing muscles. If you have ever gone from stationary type machine movements for a long time to working out with free weights you know what I mean. Although strong your stabilizing muscles will tremble trying to bench free weights until they get use to balancing the weight(will take weeks to get those stabilizing muscles up to task)

[@hybridresistance]

@@76v8jeep excellent points!

[@captainguns9761]

Yeah mines great XLi model. Don’t use it all the time as I prefer x3 and bands attached to my pull up station as I don’t have to unfold & put away. Hopped on tg for a back workout other day & it was bloody brilliant & I was sore in a good way & new I had an ace workout, I have to attach bands of course to get resistance I need. Legs I find ok as it’s not 2 taxing on the knees doing squats & calf raises then finish off with x3 squats & calves for the full burn

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks man. The bands are a perfect compliment to a total gym for sure, especially in the legs.

[@JamesVillarreal-i7y]

I have the Total Gym XLS and I also have the older gloss black Powertec leverage gym. They both have different benefits, and both are well made machines.

[@hybridresistance]

Those two definitely complement each other no question!

[@Ren_coaching]

Was a gym rat for almost 30 years… invested in a Total Gym at the first lockdown. Transitioned easily and the advantages of working out from home, never again having the possibility of overreaching government attempting to handcuff my health and fitness, is all the motivation I need to stay creative in the uses and possibilities with my TG. 🙏

[@hybridresistance]

Love that that comment and story. Thank so much for sharing.

[@peterminton8105]

Hi Mike , The one thing about exercise and equipment is not just going through the motions . It's how you use it and using your imagination and thinking about the time under tension and internalizing muscle building . Slow , steady , squeezing the muscles your using . That's my favourite way of doing exercise . I use a suspension trainer , Bull worker , 5 kg weighted ball . I use my ball and just throw it up in the air in front of my head about 100 times and my arm muscles are killing me . I do slow intense squats with it . I do h.i.t.with it . I am waiting for the flexicon machine to come out and I think I will buy one as a lifetime purchase . ( Thanks to you for doing the video on that . ) I do use bands as well . I try just to get the most of what I have using my imagination . I looked at that machine you did in you last video but it's not available in the UK . I was interested in that . I read the comments on Amazon and there were some issues but overall people did like using it . Thanks again . 👍

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks Peter. The "slow steady" approach is defiantly great while keeping and maintaining tension. For one reason or another, many TG workouts where I get in the zone I find myself wanting to go faster, but regardless I make sure I have the constant tension on the muscle.

[@sobutterysmooth]

Being someone who has been powerbuilding for the past 5 to 6 years with a dedicated home gym, I would definitely say that the Total Gym is such an underrated and under appreciated product. It is a very effective training tool. I’ve felt more comfortable working on things like flyes and pullups on it than I do with traditional methods. Plus, the main features I love-the safety aspect of it and the ability to work through true failure without risking injury.

[@hybridresistance]

Great points. And yes, for sure the bodybuilding aspects are there if people want that.

[@Ryan1189.]

I picked one up a couple of years ago after seeing your videos. It's so easy to just hop on and get a good workout in a short amount of time. I think that's why its the only equipment I can stay consistent on.

[@hybridresistance]

@@Ryan1189. that for sure is a big part of it in just how accessible it is.

[@kylermichael3972]

I miss my total gym. I had to get rid of it since I was moving cross country but I think I’ll get one soon. I always see them on sale

[@hybridresistance]

Got many stories of people who sold to then buy again a TG.

[@DaviWalt]

What happened to the large Total Gym model that you got as a discount second hand?

[@hybridresistance]

@@DaviWalt it was off camera. I mentioned it super briefly at the start of the video. Just as behemoth to bring outside

[@DuncanL7979]

I've used both the Total Gym and the Bowflex. The Total Gym is superior in every way.

[@mrqualityreviewer4752]

Agreed I used a bowflex total gym beats it

[@hybridresistance]

@@DuncanL7979 100%

[@kyles8391]

So Mike, where would you recommend someone find a coach or trainer who's familiar with a Total Gym to guide them through it or even better, design a program around it?

[@hybridresistance]

A decent trainer (even if new the machine) I think could be of good use. However I think most trainers probably have never used a TG before. I'd look for a trainer that has the education, the look, more seasoned in age, and has more a bodybuilding approach to their resistance training. I could get into a lot more reasons why I stress "bodybuilding", but basically they'd be better at cutting out some of the "fluff" exercises while also stressing good mechanics.

[@kyles8391]

@@hybridresistance thanks, let me know if you'd be interested in setting something like this up

[@forhisglory1984]

Can’t wait for your lever arm video

[@hybridresistance]

Thank you. I made an initial one about a week ago here in case you missed it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jaLSpGOLm91sidk But I plan on making more in the future.

[@IronMayne]

As always , your content is spot on brtha💯…since my injury I had earlier- using this machine has really helped me to doing other things like lifting heavy and even going to the homegym con and competing. I love this thing so much, wife wants to get the newer Evolve model. That’ll prob be next year or something but overall, this machine is so underrated still.

[@hybridresistance]

@@IronMayne big Keith spouting truth as always. Always good to see you on here and pray the recovery is doing well.

[@IronMayne]

@@hybridresistance blessed to be alive good brtha and to see your posts! Many blessing to you and the fam!🏋🏾‍♂️🙏🏿🙏🏿

[@hybridresistance]

@@IronMayne thank you my friend. God bless

[@GGhostStudios]

I agree 100% the total gym has its own learning curve on top of learning the movement’s , and how to perform them properly. It’s marketed to people that have never been to the gym, don’t know anyone named Jim, and they have never even bothered to google what a gym even is. It took me almost 2 years to figure everything out, proper posture, angles of resistance etc..but it’s still the best at home cable machine, or general piece of equipment that someone could buy, especially in the small space department. And at different price points. God bless bro.

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks Greg (correct me if I got that wrong) as always. The best clients I've worked with are the ones that want to keep learning and realize the conversation or program alone won't get you very far, but dialing in the movements that work for their needs/goals. God bless to you as always.

[@aussie_al]

I have the GR8FLEX which is a knock off of the Total Gym. I'm so glad i found it cause, imo it is a better machine. Its cheaper yet really solidly built with quality materials. It has bands under the slide and is higher for greater resistance. The only thing missing is the weight bar, but i guess GR8FLEX thinks that the resistance bands under the slide is a better alternative. It's higher as i said but the rails are also longer which helps out tall people and allows a greater stretch. I'm 6'3" and have no trouble with bottoming out. It's worth taking a look.

[@GGhostStudios]

@@hybridresistance it’s Lou, keep up the great content

[@boxofpears2]

Will not lie.. you can do everything this does, with resistance bands...

[@joerenner8334]

Every beginner gets this thing all wrong. One only needs 4 movements on it. Thats it. Every video I see on theae things have a rapid talking hoat showing 53 movements to learn.

[@pauls9034]

That sounds like a you problem.