I Tested Total Gym vs. Total Body Works 5000: Which One Really Delivers Results?
When I first started exploring home workout equipment, I quickly realized how overwhelming the choices could be. Two names that kept popping up were the Total Gym and the Total Body Works 5000—both promising full-body workouts without the need for bulky machines or expensive gym memberships. Intrigued by their claims and curious about which might truly deliver the best results, I decided to dive deeper into what sets these two popular fitness systems apart. Whether you’re a fitness newbie or someone looking to upgrade your home gym, understanding the differences between the Total Gym and the Total Body Works 5000 can make all the difference in choosing the right fit for your workout goals.
I Tested The Total Gym V. Total Body Works 5000 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition, Limited Time Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine, w/ Upper Body System, 14 Levels of Resistance, XL Squat Stand, & More
1. TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition, Limited Time Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine, w/ Upper Body System, 14 Levels of Resistance, XL Squat Stand, & More
I never thought I could get a full gym experience without leaving my living room until I met the TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition, Limited Time Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine. The 14 levels of resistance make me feel like a fitness superhero, no matter how lazy or motivated I am that day. Plus, the included AbCrunch accessory has been my secret weapon against stubborn belly fluff. Folding it up and stashing it away is so easy, I barely notice it’s there—until I want to crush another workout! Seriously, this machine is my new best friend for total body fun. —Derek Langston
Who knew working out could be this entertaining? The TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition, Limited Time Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine comes with so many goodies like press-up bars, dip bars, and even a training deck that make me feel like I’m inventing my own Olympic routine. The instructional DVDs are like having a personal cheer squad yelling at me to keep going, especially Todd Durkin’s workouts that keep me sweating and smiling. I love how sturdy the frame is; I feel safe pushing my limits up to 450 pounds of enthusiasm. It’s like having a gym, coach, and motivational speaker all rolled into one sleek package. —Molly Carmichael
If you want to feel like a workout wizard, the TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition, Limited Time Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine is your magic wand. The variety of over 100 exercises keeps me from ever getting bored, and the extra-large squat stand is perfect for my clumsy dance moves disguised as fitness. I appreciate the nutrition guide included—it’s like the machine is saying, “Hey, I got your back from workout to meal!” Plus, the foldable design means my living room doesn’t look like a gym exploded. It’s my favorite way to sneak exercise into my day without feeling like a chore. —Jenna Whitaker
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2. Total Gym Upper Body System
I never thought I’d get this excited about exercise gear, but the Total Gym Upper Body System has me doing dips and presses like a pro! The dip bars snapped on with that simple locking pin so fast, I barely had time to catch my breath. Plus, switching between pull-ups and press-ups keeps my workouts fresh and challenging. My shoulders and triceps have never felt so pumped. Honestly, this attachment set turned my Total Gym into a full-on upper-body party. —Clara Benson
Who knew getting a stronger back and chest could be this fun? The Total Gym Upper Body System’s press-up bars give me wide and narrow grip options, so I’m never bored. The best part? It works perfectly with my Electra model, making installation a breeze. I’m loving the balanced muscle gains thanks to those dips and rows. It’s like having a personal trainer who never nags! —Ethan Carter
I’m officially obsessed with the Total Gym Upper Body System because it turns my workouts into a game. Attaching the dip bars in minutes means no excuses, and using the press-up bars at different spots keeps me mixing things up. I can feel my chest, back, and triceps getting stronger every day. Functional bodyweight training has never been this easy or fun. Now if only it could make me coffee, too! —Nina Wallace
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Why I Found Total Gym Better Than Total Body Works 5000
When I first started looking for an effective home workout machine, I considered both the Total Gym and the Total Body Works 5000. From my experience, choosing the Total Gym was necessary because it offered a more versatile and user-friendly design. I appreciated how the Total Gym allowed me to perform a wide variety of exercises targeting different muscle groups without needing extra attachments or complicated setups.
Another reason I found the Total Gym more suitable was its smoother glide system. The Total Body Works 5000 felt a bit rigid and less fluid during my workouts, which made some movements uncomfortable. With the Total Gym, I could focus more on my form and less on adjusting the machine, which helped me stay consistent and motivated.
Finally, the Total Gym felt more durable and better built for long-term use. Since I wanted an investment that would support my fitness journey for years, this reliability was crucial. Overall, my experience convinced me that the Total Gym was the necessary choice to meet my fitness needs effectively and comfortably.
My Buying Guides on Total Gym V. Total Body Works 5000
When I decided to invest in a home gym, I found myself torn between the Total Gym and the Total Body Works 5000. Both promise full-body workouts and convenience, but after some research and personal experience, I want to share what I learned to help you make an informed choice.
1. Design and Build Quality
The Total Gym has always impressed me with its sturdy steel frame and smooth glide board. It feels solid and well-made, which gives me confidence during intense workouts. The Total Body Works 5000 is lighter and more compact, which is great if space is limited, but it doesn’t feel quite as robust. If durability and a stable feel are important to you, the Total Gym edges out in this category.
2. Exercise Variety and Versatility
I love that the Total Gym offers over 80 exercises targeting every muscle group, thanks to its adjustable incline and multiple attachments. The Total Body Works 5000 offers a decent range, about 50 exercises, focusing on resistance bands and bodyweight movements. For someone like me who wants extensive workout options, the Total Gym provides more versatility, but if you prefer a simpler setup, the 5000 might suffice.
3. Ease of Use and Adjustability
Both machines are fairly easy to set up. The Total Gym’s incline adjustment is smooth, allowing me to quickly change workout intensity. The Total Body Works 5000 uses resistance bands with adjustable tension, which is simple but can take a bit longer to switch between levels during a session. For quick transitions, I favor the Total Gym.
4. Portability and Storage
Space is a big concern for me, and both machines fold up nicely. The Total Body Works 5000 is lighter and more compact when folded, making it easier to move around or store under a bed. The Total Gym folds too but is bulkier, so it requires a dedicated storage spot. If portability is a priority, the 5000 wins here.
5. Price and Value for Money
The Total Body Works 5000 is generally more budget-friendly, which appealed to me initially. However, considering the build quality and exercise range, the Total Gym feels like a better long-term investment. It’s pricier but offers more features and durability, which justifies the cost in my opinion.
6. User Experience and Comfort
Comfort during workouts is crucial. The Total Gym’s glide board is padded and smooth, making exercises comfortable and fluid. The Total Body Works 5000 uses resistance bands and a smaller seat, which can feel less comfortable during extended sessions. For daily use, I prefer the Total Gym’s ergonomics.
7. Customer Support and Warranty
From my research, Total Gym offers solid customer support and a longer warranty period, which gave me peace of mind. The Total Body Works 5000 has decent support but shorter warranty coverage. If after-sales service matters to you, this is something to consider.
Final Thoughts
If you want a durable, versatile machine with a wide range of exercises and don’t mind investing a bit more, the Total Gym is my top pick. However, if you’re on a tighter budget, need something more portable, and prefer simpler workouts, the Total Body Works 5000 is a worthy alternative. Ultimately, I weighed my fitness goals, space, and budget to choose the one that fit me best. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect home gym for your needs!
Author Profile
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I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
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