Rethinking the X3 Bar: Should I Keep or Return It?

[@regprofant8609]

I am 80 years old and have been working out since I was 13. I have done just about every form of lifting except Olympic as I couldn't find a adequate teacher at that. I have trained with George effiferman, chet yorton, Pete Sisco and John little and I was a power factor part of their experiment. I have suffered the usual injuries over the years and partly due to those injuries I started X3. I am definitely more than pleased with my results on every level. I suggest that anyone that have doubts give it a fair try BUT I also suggest reading his book first.

[@hybridresistance]

Love that story my friend. Stay tuned tomorrow as I'll be covering some X3 content.

[@CollaredConsulting]

It’s a overpriced scam with much cheaper and better alternatives (though the bar is decent). You don’t need 50 years of experience just 50 IQ points of common sense to see that

[@Andrew2944r]

Coming on week 10 now with X3 and the gains are very real. It is very easy on the joints and resistance training for sure is the real deal.

[@hybridresistance]

Very great to hear. The thing (or just bands/bar/board) do work. I can attest (at least for me) that it is possible to overdue it, but that could be cumulative with other stuff I was doing. X3 is great though.

[@francescaerreia8859]

I use a protective sleeve from black mountain that is just long enough to cover the length of the band under the plate. They get no wear and tear. This is a product you have to really give some time for your body and brain to figure out how to use right. I’d give it at least a month following the protocol to a t. You can’t approach it like you do weights. Once it starts clicking, it feels amazing.

[@hybridresistance]

I have seen those, I got to look into that, thanks. I do actually feel after a bunch of trial with other bands and paying close attention to to the bands while I'm doing exercises, that it greatly does reduce any wear with the stand as long as your not repping loose tension or friction on the bands. I agree the more you use it with a certain style, the exercises for sure grow you.

[@iang8169]

Don't be afraid to experiment to find superior variations that work better for some people . remember this is not jaquish s program . 60 years ago Arthur Jones ( inventor of nautilus machines ) invented the h.i.t program of training . Jones program has 4 points a) keep the muscle under constant tension for the whole rep b ) slow , consistent rep speed , no explosive movement , 2 -3 secs up , 2-3 secs back c) go to full rep failure , then to partial rep failure till you basically can't move the bar at all d ) only do one all out set per body part . sound familiar ? haha Jaquish is a marketing genius but he's no bodysuit expert so try variations to see what works best for you . I got a door stopper ,double looped the band through it ,put the door stopper at the top of the door , put 2 handles on each end of the bands, got on my knees and in a narrow to wide action pulled the handles down and back towards me ,trying to copy as best I could ,the hammer strength lat pull down machine . for me that hits my lats a LOT more than using the bar for a bent over row . same thing for tricep push down but standing and using a lighter band ,except for me I get the biggest tricep pump when I don't use the handles or the bar , I just grab each side of the bands with my hands in a neutral grip . basically I only use the bar now for shoulder press ,biceps and 50% of deadlifts ( alternating with putting handles on the sides and doing the equivalent of a hex bar dead lift )

[@hybridresistance]

@@iang8169 Great comment. Arthur Jones was a genius and you’re right he did talk about that tempo.

[@uscwindoggy]

@@iang8169 You mention getting better results sometimes with hands in a neutral grip. I've found neutral grip prevents injury for me especially with shoulder presses. How are you putting handles on the sides of the X3 bar?

[@iang8169]

@uscwindoggy i ditch the bar and put handles on each loop . Jaquish is full of it when he says you have to use the bar on every exercise. The bar is only optimal for shoulder press and bicep curls in my opinion.

[@hybridresistance]

I did decide to keep this bar and will add more content with it. If you want to pick one up and support the channel click this link and and Use "MIKE" to save $50: www.jdoqocy.com/click-100825257-13511487

[@Ephesians64blogspot]

Good choice!

[@hybridresistance]

@@Ephesians64blogspot Thanks for the help Bryan. I wouldn't have tried this had it not been for your suggestion.

[@mikeconley3068]

I have the X3 and the TG. I used the X3 for three years and made great progress and gains. After those three years and the same moves over and over again, I wanted a change. Now I rotate the X3, TG, dumbbells and calisthenics for a nice variety. When I bought the X3 it was 350, worth every penny. Don’t discount the quality and value without trying it. There are many people that think the TG is gimmicky, over priced and not effective…..are they correct? nope, I love the TG too but do not want it to be my only source of strength training.

[@hybridresistance]

Excellent points Mike. I know I get similar comments to me about the TG cost all the time. Rotating and or incorporating these things is a solid routine.

[@thehaaps]

I agree with Mike. I have the TG and X3 and love them both. I also incorporate some good ol' fashion Kettlebell work from time to time just to add some variety.

[@Hardcortes]

TG?

[@illegitimate0]

They could put a roller on the platform where the bands go over and solve that friction problem. I don't believe for a second that wear is not a problem, you undoubtedly are wearing through those bands, and probably faster than you want. I would say for anyone using this, they should buy some Ultrahigh Molecular Weight Polyethylene Tape and tape it to the friction area of the base. It is an extremely low friction material and will undoubtedly help, but it won't change the small radius bend you are putting on the band.

[@buddyryan875]

That was well done final review. You looked MUCH MUCH more comfortable and smoother on there like a pro! I can only imagine the exercises you would come up with on here! Already saw you doing some I didn't think of! These resale no problem on ebay 300+ used. Aren't risking much hanging onto it. You as a content creator I think should keep. You are right there is something about that bar that reminds me of a gym barbell with the knurling. Makes me enjoy using bands more. It compliments the total gym perfectly. As far as tempo there are times I go faster and slower really depends on how I'm feeling. Slow gets the most out of bands. Fast is good to shock the body sometimes. I've used several band sleeves over my bands to protect against the plate. The band sleeves are shredded up like crazy!! The company really should address that plate. It's just rather disingenuous of the company to call the plate shredding a "user issue." It's not from constant tension that's all I do. They are just worried about losing money on manufacturing and returns if they admit it's their fault. Fix your stupid plate don't be a jerk gaslighting your customers

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks for that great and informative comment Buddy. I think you nailed the biggest concern which is the plate. I'm still trying to give them the benefit of the doubt with that. I will say I've been using the "Rubber Bandits" band and that one despite the same use is not getting frayed so far on the plate. Which makes me wonder if it is (like they said) something do with the type of latex they use. But I don't know.

[@mr._durden_]

Been doing it almost two weeks now, i love it.

[@michaelg4062]

Id like to see a set up and workout video using the total gym attachments. like the pull up bar dip bars etc. along with using these x3 bands and get some thoughts about it.

[@hybridresistance]

I will definitely consider that. Thank you

[@michaelg4062]

@@hybridresistance no problem I enjoy your videos helps me out a lot I was actually considering doing this myself since I have the total gym XLS and the x3 bar and bands. I was trying to figure out if I could combine the two cuz I use the total gym attachments and eventually see if the bands and weights both work on the total gym.

[@lionki3]

I appreciate this followup video. Initially I was researching this before getting sidetracked into a Total Gym and ending up with a GTS for $100, way cheaper than the X3. I now am interested in getting a good used X3 as well to suppliment.

[@rcastro4340]

Full body workout-Do it regularly!Keep it ❗️❗️❗️ nothing like it. It's best quality on the market.

[@TylerINDY1]

You should look at the harambe system bar. I think you might really like it. I enjoy their platform more, and their bars come in different lengths. Your mileage may vary, but out of the two I preferred the Harambe System bar.

[@hybridresistance]

I'm definitely checking them out.

[@Tomasquo]

Both Clench Fitness and Harambe Systems allow you to buy their system components à la carte. If X3 Bar did the same they would quickly learn that no one wants their platform, and everyone is curious about their bar. They aggravated the situation by introducing a longer bar which you can only buy if you have already purchased the whole set.

[@Ephesians64blogspot]

That system is very expensive when compared to the X3. Practically double the cost.

[@stever8827]

@@Ephesians64blogspot Nope its cheaper. It comes with equilivent paraforce bands. In order to get them you need to have the X3bar first. And you need to purchase the long bar and in order to do that you need the X3 first. So for the entire price you save around $300 with Harambe

[@ronstrode9124]

No way on Harambe being cheaper

[@mr._durden_]

The bar is great. The spin is so good for the wrists

[@hybridresistance]

I have to agree, it does feel great.

[@mrsh2167]

For the same price, I recently bought the TG Pinnacle. There are not enough hours in the week for me to try the near infinite variety of exercises I have seen on this channel. With the addition of the weight bar, I don't foresee ever maxing out the TG.

[@hybridresistance]

No question a TG has this beat on shear number of exercises.

[@mrsh2167]

@@hybridresistance Good for travel or folks who live in small spaces. The intensity of resistance seems more geared toward men. Nothing wrong if you can afford it and use it

[@TimothyWStar]

Thank you for this video! I've been eyeing the X3 for a few years as a complement to my home workout setup, especially with a good way to add deadlift and squat motions. I had tried some of the cheaper systems and had similar issues with annoyance of hooks, extra slack on some bars, too far of a spread on bases, etc. And other than some of my Rogue latex bands, I feel most of what I got was a waste of money. What really brought me back to looking at X3 today is I haven't been lifting as much as I used to. My doctors have told me I need to prioritize cardio, but I want to get back into at least some lifting. My current schedule doesn't allow me to maximize what I want out of both. But the 10-minute workout I can definitely fit into my workouts without sacrificing the cardio focus. Do you feel someone like me who's been out of intense strength training for a while will still find strong benefits out of the 10-minute workout?

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks Tim. I think you for sure could get benefits out of the x3 or at least some resistance bands. I personally would do more than 10 minutes for the workout, but certainly people do follow the program as is and see results. I would for sure just watch their materials in detail to get all the information on progression, technique, and how to tailor it for your needs. Feel free to let me know if you have any other questions.

[@iang8169]

That 10 min workout is just b.s marketing . if you take the set all they to full rep failure ,then partial rep failure ,then miniature rep failure till you literally can't move the bar an inch , you absofrikenlutely can't go onto the next exercise in 2 minutes . if you are trying to build muscle you'll need to rest 4 ,maybe 5 min before you can be ready for the next set . if you take 75 secs for each set and 4 to 5 min rest between sets ,youll take close to half an hour ,especially if you add say some lateral raises or crossovers with the bands

[@sydneybird116]

@@iang8169 Do you have experience/recommendation regarding the one set to failure method for someone 60+ years old versus 3x5 to 80% failure regarding recovery time either between exercises or between days? I find that recovery is taking much longer now that I am older and feel that I need 3-4 days between heavy 3x5 sets or I have to back off 20% of weight if I try every other day. Thanks!

[@xdmc005]

Okay, okay. I’ve been watching the X3 videos on your channel, wondering if I should add this equipment to supplement my TG Fit workouts. I’ve seen them all, a few more than once, and I finally pulled the trigger tonight! I used a link from one of your videos; but, when I got to the site, they had a $150 off code auto applied, and they wouldn’t let me add your promo code. I hope that they see I used your link! If it wasn’t for your videos, I never would’ve seen this product, let alone purchase it. I did mention your channel in their post-order survey. Anyway, thanks for all the insight, reviews, and just overall being the Guinea Pig for these systems! I certainly appreciate it.

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks so much brother. Simply clicking on the link when you purchase helps me out a lot. Can you give me any details on how that $150 off? That's a good deal that I'd like to share, I just don't see it on their website. Thanks again. You're gonna like it for sure.

[@xdmc005]

No problem. It just auto-applied a code “EarlyAccess150” to the X3 Elite Set, so it was $399 instead of $549. I didn’t have to do anything! For context, this was on 10/30/23, so I don’t know how long this will work.

[@josefdeigner1045]

You really liked the bar from the get go..For you the bar is worth while keeping..I don'tvlike the design of the base..having a narrow square edge forvthe resistance bands to be making contact under load makes no sense to me..If I were to get that system..Which I won't..first thing I wud do is place a round sleeve from metal tubing or even wooden dowel over that edge ..almost like a fat gripz idea..but shouldnt have to DIY for that kind of money

[@briand5047]

I was taught somewhere that with bands, the rule is soft to soft and hard to hard The actual band (soft) should go through a loop (soft). Carabiners (hard) connect with metal rings (hard). Not following that concept is my concern with the X3 bar. Getting slapped by a snapping band is a little too "50 Shades" for me.

[@hybridresistance]

Fair and good points Brian, Thanks.

[@briand5047]

@@hybridresistance Great review! I have the Innstar bar and Bodylastics curl bar. The ends are holding up, but I wasn't too sure about them at first.

[@bandanabanana3162]

I've had mine for a year or so and I don't use it regularly because I have some limitations. I can do one of the exercises on the list for the day, and it takes me about 10 to 12 minutes to catch my breath and be able to do the next. That said, it definitely works without a doubt! Once I complete the days list I'm usually spent but it has kept me from losing muscle tone entirely. I also use the same Total Gym for lighter exercises when I'm feeling puny.

[@hybridresistance]

I know what you mean. This thing can gas you out it you push it to where it's supposed to be. Very cool to hear you're getting results with limited use on it.

[@scottw-gu9ik]

Ron Williams total body bar just came out, and by adding more bands to it looks like it can do a lot of the same stuff--and its $138.00 Is a seriously less expensive option. Just say'in

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks for letting me know, didn't know it was out yet. I don't know if this would be the same functionality on what you can do with an x3. It's designed for a different bands but you certainly I guess throw loop bands over.

[@eladmitchell752]

its a nice bar.heavy duty looks real nice.i made my own because i couldnt afford it.i drilled 2 holes in a fencing bar i had and its great.but if i could afford it i definitely would buy one.i use a bike handle bar for rowing ,triceps extensions, pullovers .i love it

[@hybridresistance]

These are bad as well amzn.to/3Akbvdp

[@quantumhealthandnutrition]

Man..great review. Can you please do a video with adding the X3 bands to the total gym? I’m curious if it will add serious resistance for working out the quads.

[@hybridresistance]

Thank you. I've made a bunch of "resistance band" videos with the Total Gym, but I do plan on updating that in the near future so definitely stay tuned for that. The X3 bands are great no question, but I don't you have to have those on to add decent tension. I wouldn't stress the TG with something like the ELITE band though. Here is a band playlist in case you're interested.

[@matticussilverman6179]

Hi Mike, I invested in the Harambe system, I love it and use it with my TG. I think the Harambe system is superior to the X3, I got the longer version though.

[@hybridresistance]

That system definitely looks cool and they seem like a great company.

[@mr._durden_]

I had the harambe. Got the x3 used from the company for a discount and wound up selling the harambe.

[@stever8827]

excellent system! better all the way around and the leg exercises feel better plus the bands that come with it are the equilivent to the perforce bands that X3 charges you again for.

[@power_man1]

I agree. The Harambe System is an overall better and safer option. I thought the video was going to compare the two since in the beginning it shows a picture of the Harambe System, but it was only compared to the cheap bars you get on Amazon.

[@mr._durden_]

Those bands are layer upon layer. They are well made. Get the paraforce bands

[@hybridresistance]

I did a review on "best loop bands" and was very surprised how awesome these base level bands feel overall.

[@mr._durden_]

Hell yea bro. TUT range looks way better in this video

[@hybridresistance]

Thank you brother.

[@mr._durden_]

@@hybridresistance awesome videos man. Very informative.

[@raiden225005]

Love the reviews you do for other unique fitness products. Total gym is still the best but I’m curious if you’d ever review one of the cheaper bow flex gyms. I remember seeing those infomercials way back just like the total gym ones.

[@hybridresistance]

I'd love to review those, just got to find it in the budget / room in the garage.

[@ryankonishi1547]

What are those straps you used to connect the X3 bar to the TG - at the 2:20 mark.

[@hybridresistance]

Here you go amzn.to/3pdTpqR

[@chairchi]

If you're ever able, I'd love to see a review of the Xbar. I'm seeing a lot of ads in this and just curious on you're opinion. Thanks again

[@hybridresistance]

I have seen that, but I'm not really as interested in that due to it being an EZ curl bar. I also think as far tube bands, it's hard to beat the Bodylastics

[@chairchi]

@@hybridresistance no worries. Keep up the good work

[@RobertCombs70]

If there's ever a doubt whatsoever about something then the best thing to do is get rid of it. When something is absolutely right you will know it 100% with no questions asked. So there's my food for thought for the day. LOL!

[@manderson406]

keep it and review the fortagen product.

[@hybridresistance]

I did try their free samples, but it might be a little steep in total price to do a review. But I will see what I can do. I went to a few seminars a few years ago from a guy who was heavily invested the research about "special" essential amino acid formulations that was very interesting.

[@jacoblynch9862]

I do not own this, nor have I ever been huge into Fitness, but what I will say is irregardless of cost as long as the product will last and wind up being something you will use consistently to me that is more important than the cost because if you go and spend $100 on a system for whatever it is and you never use it you wasted your money same thing if you go buy a $2500 system if you don’t use it and don’t enjoy using it you’ve wasted your money on the flipside of that if you enjoy using it and it is benefiting your life to me cost is almost irrelevant just my two. Cents.

[@hybridresistance]

This is 100% true!

[@reggieaustin1639]

Could you do a video how effective the X3 workouts are. I’m 58 years old can I get close to your arms and what tips and exercises to get my arms like yours, I just bought one , what strikes me the most was how big Dr Janquish arms are , are they from the x3 ?

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks for the question Reggie. I will look at answer that on a future video as I'll definitely be making more X3 / resistance band content. Genetics is always a factor, but for me the best way to build arms is volume and consistent stress. I'd personally do more then the recommended 1 set of arms on the x3.

[@uscwindoggy]

Do you ever get concerned with not being able to pronate or supinate your wrists? I just bought an X3 and it just dawned on me there is no ability to externally rotate to take extra pressure off the joints where needed. Thoughts?

[@hybridresistance]

No I wouldn’t worry about that. But I do have other modalities I incorporate as well.

[@NateB]

I share this concern. It does seem like an unnatural position, but I guess most power lifters use straight bars. And their problems tend toward other joints, not the wrists.

[@uscwindoggy]

Thank you for the reply. My shoulder felt tweaky with the X3, so I returned it. It's too bad as I was hoping to have a portable gym at home like the all-in-one X3 system@@hybridresistance

[@protectandserve7385]

Honestly I bought it months back and used it religiously and gained some size. High protein carnivore for about 2 months tho.

[@hybridresistance]

Awesome to hear. How are you doing with that carnivore diet?

[@mikehintenach2503]

I have the plastic board which doesn’t effect the bands at all.

[@mikeconley3068]

Same here, the OG board and Serious Steel Bands they originally shipped with.

[@loulopez554]

Bottom line is you like it so go for it .

[@hybridresistance]

I have to admit, I am liking it.

[@panos3505]

Hi,how do you place the orange band when you do a back squat? I have trouble getting it over my head to get in position

[@hybridresistance]

Here's a clip from a video where I show how I get into it. Might not work for everyone though. I do now really like their single leg squats and go back to front squats as well. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJzId36HeM1jn68

[@panos3505]

@@hybridresistanceThanks

[@charleshorseman55]

I wonder how many people have knocked themself out/knocked their teeth out with that thing.

[@John-sn4hl]

Is this still worth it? Thinking about getting the Harambe. I live in an apartment and work on the computer all day. Starting to lose all my gains 😢

[@hybridresistance]

I still love mine, but I think it's good to mix things up to keep things interesting.

[@Neel_44]

Do you think the bar/platform better than Undersun program?

[@hybridresistance]

I think the success of the program really depends on how it fits you (goals, enjoyment, adherence, etc), but I personally do enjoy having a bar / platform over just using bands. I honestly wouldn't stick to what is strictly laid out in the either the X3 or Undersun programs for what it's worth based on my own personal preferences.

[@Natty4Life]

how in the world did you get the bar on your back for back squats without the plate flipping?

[@hybridresistance]

In this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJzId36HeM1jn68 at the 18:20 mark you see how slip into it. Basically have to get into a deep squat.

[@Natty4Life]

@@hybridresistance thanks buddy

[@RocketMan200]

I use the TG Apex G5.....love it.

[@hybridresistance]

Awesome product, but that’s a given

[@ELDogStar]

I have other reasons aside from cost. I say get rid of it.

[@fredvos4015]

Great follow up review but at $752 in Canada, I think I'll pass

[@NiechoBGCSL]

I have the X3, had surgery on my elbow and missed the return time and took longer to heal than expected. I hugely regret buying it. It's an expensive mistake I am atill paying off. I don't have an issue with the system. I do, however, have an issue with the price. There are other equally effective systems less than half the cost! Not to mention, they try to sell ya all kinds of other things on top of this nearly $600 system. And they want to push a carnivore diet without much leeway for other healthier diet. Carnivore is also really expensive too. If you read other posts, everything about the guy (elitist 🌵) and the product screams overpriced scam. You can find a substitute for about a quarter of the price!

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks for sharing my friend. I'm right there with you on the price and have made videos showing alternatives as cheap as a $15 pipe, but here's a video where I get into the price not being possibly as bad as it seems. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6XdcoSqrZd2n6s

[@tristannavarro1584]

First comment! Don’t keep it.

[@loulopez554]

Imo way over priced for what you get.

[@robertf863]

This or speediance gym pal

[@hybridresistance]

Thanks for the question Robert. This deserves its own video. Stay tuned for this (this week, possibly tomorrow).

[@robertf863]

@@hybridresistance thank you! I know the bands are portable but I think gym pal might give me more exercises to do. Thank you!

[@JoseSuarez-bk3qg]

I see you like the bar very much as it appears to be a nice complement with the Total Gym. But at $500.00 for a system that, in my case will not work can’t see myself spending the money for just the bar.

[@hybridresistance]

Check out the 11:49 mark where I break down the cost. The set was around $400 on sale and when you factor the band tension alone is around 150-200, the USA made bar easily worth close to $100 retail, the remainder goes to the platform (also made in the USA). I'm not trying to defend it, but assuming an obvious mark up, I can't find anything comparable in price/ quality on the market for this set up. I actually trying to talk myself out of it, but I still can't find anything comparable.

[@JoseSuarez-bk3qg]

@@hybridresistance If you are including other components such as the bands and platform I guess a case can be made for the purchase. However, the only component I see worth purchasing is the bar and using it on a Total Gym as the platform concerns me as it will eat up the bands because of the rough edges. Also, I’m not really a fan of substituting bands over barbells and weights. I like using bands as a functional training options on a power rack and adding resistance to a sliding bench trainer.

[@chunwong1807]

Still don’t understand why it costs so much. The package only includes a bar, a band and a base. Don’t keep it.

[@protectandserve7385]

4 bands

[@hybridresistance]

I don't know if you got to the time stamp on the "cost" but to be fair to the product, I don't think it's outrageous as it initially seems when you consider the cost of the bands / bar to other comparable products.

[@protectandserve7385]

@@hybridresistance I agree. Once you actually use the product the bands make a huge difference compared to others as well.

[@chunwong1807]

@@hybridresistance I did watch that part. I got your point. But maybe it’s just me; just don’t feel natural when doing band training exercises; when you do the chest exercise, it seems awkward to me. Yeah I would just stick with total gym for now; don’t feel this is a necessary equipment for my current fitness routine. But thank you for your follow up review.

[@chunwong1807]

Hi Mike, could you please provide a comparison between the X3 and Total Gym? In your opinion, can the X3 replace the Total Gym? Also, does the X3 live up to its claim of being three times better than weights? Lastly, if I have a budget of $550, which product would you recommend between the X3 and Total Gym?

[@RV-ri8jk]

All fitness equipment is overpriced. A few are WAY overpriced. This seems like it should be $119.95 and Susanne Sommers or the Shamwow guy should be peddling it on Home Shopping Network.

[@hybridresistance]

I think at initial glance I totally hear you on that. But in retrospect after considering the comparable price in quality bands and the USA made bar alone, I think you're looking at close $300 at a fair cost.

[@chrisyoung8062]

you should really take a breath once in a while.

[@ToddDolce]

Dump it!!! Save your wrists and finger joints! Spare your tendons! If you are even questioning it then you have your answer. Dump it! Sell it!

[@NateB]

Do these systems have a history of causing wrist and hand injury?