The Total Gym XLS is an exercise machine designed to be used in the home for both strength training and cardio training. It is heavily advertised on infomercials, and most TV viewers are familiar with the enthusiastic endorsements of action star Chuck Norris and model Christie Brinkley.
The Total Gym XLS uses the person’s own body weight as resistance. Whether it works or not depends on what results you are looking for and how much effort you put into using it.
There are some things to consider when looking at reviews of an exercise system or machine. Keep in mind that there is no one piece of fitness equipment that is the best one for everybody. In order to evaluate any piece of exercise equipment you first need to have a clear understanding of your physical fitness needs and exercise goals.
There are various models of the Total Gym. All models fold for easy storage and use the person’s own body weight for resistance. They are all available by way of a payment plan. All models carry a lifetime warranty on the frame. The XLS has a six month warranty on parts. It comes with an instructional DVD to guide you through the 80 different exercises for weight resistance training for strength and muscle toning or cardio exercise for heart health. The DVD also includes Christie Brinkley’s Pilates instruction.
While certain features are common to all models of the Total Gym, the Total Gym XLS is the top of the line. It has an upper weight limit of 400 pounds, so it is suitable for users up to that body weight.
One of the main features of the Total Gym XLS is that it folds for easy storage. When folded up it is about the size of an ironing board, but it is flat so there is no problem finding space for it in an apartment or in the family room of a home. Rather than having to leave a large piece of equipment set up in your home, you can fold up the Total Gym XLS and store it under a bed or in an out of the way corner.
The Total Gym XLS is designed to give you a complete workout, so you don’t need multiple pieces of equipment. It can give you an efficient workout in 20 to 30 minutes. If you commit to using it regularly, it is much cheaper than the cost of joining a gym, with the added advantage that since it is in your home, you are likely to use it more often. Also, it can be used by various members of the household across different sizes and fitness levels.
There are some possible downsides. Some users who need to lose significant amounts of weight may need more intense cardio workouts than are available with the Total Gym and someone looking to do serious bodybuilding will need a different kind of equipment. Also, as with any piece of home exercise equipment, you have to make the mental commitment to using it regularly in order to really get your money’s worth from it.