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FACT CHECKEDExercising at home offers many benefits: no commute, immediate access to equipment, and privacy to learn new exercises. But is an all-in-one home gym effective for getting in good shape?
As an experienced personal trainer, I've extensively researched and tested home gym equipment and machines to recommend the best options to clients, family, and friends who ask.
Many all-in-one home gyms are excellent, but some aren't worth the investment. I've carefully selected a list of high-quality choices that are truly valuable additions to your home gym.
In compiling my list of top all-in-one home gym machines, I prioritized versatility, durability, and user customization. I carefully considered each machine's space efficiency and ease of use, also taking into account brand reputation and real user feedback.
Now, let's take a close look at each one to determine which is best for you.
The G3 is Force USA's most affordable all in one Smith machine combo that marries a functional trainer, Smith machine, chin-up station, and core trainer into a space slightly larger than a power rack.
Even though it is one of the most affordable trainers, it is still jam-packed with features that offer you the ability to perform 100+ strength training exercises.
The G3 is manufactured by Force USA, which adds significant value to the machine because they are well-established in the industry and are backed by years of high-quality gym equipment and thousands of impressive customer reviews. Force USA is one of the top brands to buy home gyms from if you want a quality machine.
With over 180 ratings and an average of 4.9 stars, users have spoken! Below is one of the more recent comments on the G3 to give you perspective.
Key Features:
Footprint (WxDxH) | 80" x 55" x 87" |
Machine Weight | ~370lbs |
Functions | 12 in 1 Strength Training System (Power rack, functional trainer, Smith machine, chin up bar, suspension trainer, core trainer) (Optional-leg press, lat pull-down, jammer arms, dip, low row, leg developer) |
Attachments | 14 attachments (J-hooks, safety spotter arms, landmine, multigrip landmine handle, dual hook straight bar, small straight bar, nylon stirrup handles, pulldown rope, 4 band pegs, 2 Olympic lock collars, 10 Olympic spring collars, 4 carabiners) |
Weight Stack(s) | NA |
Pulley Ratio | 2:1 |
Type | Plate Loaded |
The Force USA G3 All-In-One Trainer is the perfect entry level All-In-One Trainer. Combines a power rack, functional trainer, smith machine, chin up station, and core trainer...
The Bowflex PR1000 is an excellent all in one for individuals in the market for home gym equipment that won't break the bank. This machine allows a lifter to perform over 25 different exercises, which should be sufficient for achieving a full-body workout.
The PR1000 is also equipped with power rods instead of weight plates or a weight stack which offers a relatively low impact on the body and provides up to 210 pounds of resistance which makes it a great home gym for beginners as well as seasoned vets.
This is one of the most popular Bowflex machines with over 7,600 ratings and an average of 4.6 stars! Check out a recent buyer's comment below.
Key Features:
Footprint (WxDxH) | 80" x 103" x 82" |
Machine Weight | ~144lbs |
Functions | 25 exercises including: lat pulldown, bench press, low row, leg developer etc. |
Attachments | Stirrups/handles |
Weight Stack(s) | 210lbs resistance |
Pulley Ratio | NA |
Type | Power rod resistance |
If you are on a budget but looking for a total body workout, the Bowflex® PR1000 is your ideal home gym. With over 30 strength exercises and a built-in rowing station...
If you're on the market for a single piece of equipment that can do the job of a gym's worth of strength training equipment, then the Force USA G6 is the all in one trainer with two weight stacks is for you.
Your investment gets you nine training stations into a footprint less than a third of the size that would be required if you had a dedicated piece of equipment for each station.
This the best multi-tower all in one home gym for people with little room but who don't want to sacrifice any exercise diversity.
The G6 is loved by verified buyers where the machine currently has almost 100 reviews with an average rating of 4.8 stars! Here's a glimpse of what people are saying below.
Key Features:
Footprint (WxDxH) | 72" x 63" x 91" |
Machine Weight | ~800bs |
Functions | 11 in 1 strength training system (power rack, functional trainer, Smith machine, leg press, chin up station, dip station, core trainer, suspension trainer, low row) Optional (jammer arms, leg developer) |
Attachments | 19 (J-hooks, safety spotter arms, landmine, dual hook straight bar, lat pulldown bar, close grip handle, V-bar, sport handle, metal stirrup handles, pulldown rope, abdominal crunch handles, leg press plate, lat pulldown knee holder, multigrip dip handles, 4 band pegs, 2 Olympic lock collars, 6 Olympic spring clips, 2 extension chains, 6 carabiners) |
Weight Stack(s) | 2 x 220lb stacks |
Pulley Ratio | 2:1 |
Type | Pin & plate loaded |
The Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer is the original pin and plate loaded all-in-one trainer. Combines a power rack, functional trainer, smith machine, dip station, chin up station, core trainer, suspension trainer, leg press...
The EXM2500S is a well-built home gym machine has many workout stations you'd expect from a gym, including a pec fly station and a lower pulley with a built-in footplate.
It also comes with a 210 lb weight stack and is compatible with a leg press attachment for those who want to expand later down the road.
In addition, this bundle includes a free rower that offers effective low-impact cardio and full-body workout.
The EXM2500S isn't the most popular machine on this list but buyers have great things to say as you can see below.
Key Features:
Footprint (WxDxH) | 51" x 83" x 83" |
Machine Weight | ~410lbs |
Functions | Chest press, pec fly, leg developer, upper pulley, lower pulley |
Attachments | Optional (leg press) |
Weight Stack(s) | 210lbs (Optional up to 310lbs) |
Pulley Ratio | 2:1 |
Type | Weight stack |
EXM2500S -Consumer Digest Best Buy Home Gym! Made Exclusively for Fitness Factory by Body-Solid. Multi Station gym with 210 pound weight...
The XMark Functional Trainer is a high-end cable machine that is more than capable of providing an endless array of exercises with its dual 200 lb stacks, commercial pull-up rig, dual adjustable pulleys, and an assortment of attachments.
In addition, it makes it a capable home gym machine that will last you a lifetime with its sturdy frame with anti-corrosion and anti-scratch properties. With this many features, uses, and this much adaptability, it's no wonder why the XMark functional trainer is the best cable machine for a total body workout experience.
XMARK has gained notoriety on Amazon in recent years thanks to it's quality equipment at reasonable prices. Currently there are over 800 ratings with an average of 4.8 stars. One recent comment on the functional trainer can be seen below.
Key Features:
Footprint (WxDxH) | 65" x 43.5" x 83" |
Machine Weight | ~807lbs |
Functions | Chin up bar, adjustable pulley system allows for multiple exercises |
Attachments | Hand straps, handles, tricep ropes, bars |
Weight Stack(s) | 2 x 200lbs weight stacks |
Pulley Ratio | 2:1 |
Type | Weight stacks |
Hands down the XM-7626 is the most versatile piece of equipment for your family's home gym. Easily adjusts for anyone in your household, whether young or old, short...
This Body Solid lever home gym is a well-constructed machine that is compact, strong, and durable. It is perfect for individuals that want to work with weight plate-loaded machines but aren't quite comfortable doing free weight exercises. Lever gyms are great all in one machines because you'll be able to load more weight than other home gyms.
The unique lever arm station can self spot, allowing users to maximize their workouts without needing a spotter for safety.
The lever arm can adjust fully, allowing users to perform pull-ups, dips, squats, bench presses, incline presses, etc. We'd suggest a variety of weight plates if you want to get the most out of this home gym machine.
Body Solid is a well known brand in the fitness space but isn't one you often see in home gyms which is why there aren't many reviews on this equipment. However, we found one review below that talks about both good and bad aspects.
Key Features:
Footprint (WxDxH) | 85" x 95" x 83" |
Machine Weight | ~191lbs |
Functions | Press arm, bench, lat pulldown, chin up station |
Attachments | NA |
Weight Stack(s) | NA |
Pulley Ratio | NA |
Type | Plate loaded |
GLGS100P4 - Space Saver! Includes Heavy Duty Leverage Bench. The GLGS100 allows you to perform shrugs, squats, deadlifts, biceps curls and everything...
Doesn't look very multi-functional does it?
This one is a modular option for home gyms. One of our favorites. You can go bare-bones or all-in, depending on your budget.
You'll have to check the Force USA MyRack product page to view all the various add-ons and customizations it has, and pricing, but we'll give you a quick run through.
Customizations include:
Overall, this is a well-designed versatile home gym power rack. So whether you train weightlifting, powerlifting, Olympic lifting, calisthenics, gymnastics, or just want to get in shape, the MyRack is a great choice.
Users are impressed with this versatile pice of equipment as well as other reviewers in the space such as GarageGymReviews. This rack has over 190 reviews with a rating of a whopping 4.9 stars! The most recent review highlights the overall sentiment, check it out below.
Key Features:
Footprint (WxDxH) | 47" x 55" x 87" |
Machine Weight | ~180lbs |
Functions | Power rack |
Attachments | Optional (Lat pulldown, cable crossover, chin up, j-hooks, landmine, bench etc.) |
Weight Stack(s) | NA |
Pulley Ratio | NA |
Type | Power rack |
The Force USA MyRack Power Rack is the first truly custom power rack system of its kind. Configure your modular base rack with your choice of 20...
The Body-Solid EXM3000LPS is a commercial-grade multi-station home gym system with a leg press. You don't see leg presses included very often in all in one home gyms, so it is nice to see it included here. With this multi-station home gym, you could have up to three people working out on that same piece of equipment.
It also uses steel weight stacks for resistance and offers seven regular workout stations. You can perform 40 plus exercises on this machine, and since it has a dual weight stack system, so multiple users can work out simultaneously.
Body Solid made the list again with this versatile piece of equipment that would be great for a home gym providing you have the budget for it. One reviewer talks about this machine in a positive light below.
Key Features:
Footprint (WxDxH) | 82" x 90" x 83" |
Machine Weight | ~993lbs |
Functions | Leg press, chest press, lat pulldown, leg developer |
Attachments | Lat pulldown bar, low row bar, utility strap, workout poster |
Weight Stack(s) | 2 x 210lbs weight stacks |
Pulley Ratio | 2:1 |
Type | Weight stacks |
EXM3000LPS -Multi-station workhorse gym can accommodate 3 users at once, includes leg press and a combined 420 pounds of weight stack...
The Total Gym FIT is a well-established incline glide board system that uses your body weight to create the resistance. However, it does have 12 resistance levels, making it suitable for beginners to experts.
This machine can offer 85 plus different bodyweight exercises to promote a full-body workout, all from using a single glideboard as the base. It will take time to get accustomed to, but it would be tough to find a better incline bodyweight workout once you do.
What's more, Total Gym® TV allows you to stream workouts on their on-demand platform, free of charge.
TotalGym is a household name as their machines are great for a certain segment of fitness enthusiasts. It might not be for people who want to gain mass but it does satisfy plenty of people. With almost 2,000 reviews and with an average rating of 4.7 stars, this one might be the right pick for you. Below is an example of what buyers think about it.
Key Features:
Footprint (WxDxH) | Unfolded: 18.5" x 93" x 44.5". Folded: 18.5"x 50.5" x 8.5" |
Machine Weight | ~66lbs |
Functions | 85 exercises |
Attachments | Nylon cable handles |
Weight Stack(s) | NA (12 levels of resistance) |
Pulley Ratio | 1:1 |
Type | NA |
The Total Gym Fit is great for small spaces, all you need is yourself and determination to get an awesome workout done...
The G10 is one of the newest additions to Force USA's all in one lineup. What sets it apart from the rest is that it combines a Smith machine, power rack, and functional trainer into a single piece making it the best home gym machine on the market.
Unlike their previous home gyms, the G10 allows you to interchange between a 2:1 and 4:1 pulley ratio on the functional trainer, giving you more control as you train. The Smith machine is honestly one of the best on the market; with a smooth glide and 14 adjustable height positions, it is hard to find any faults in this home gym.
The G10 is an awesome machine that's overdelivered for customers with an average rating of 4.9 stars! Below you'll find the most recent review signing the praises of the G10.
Key Features:
Footprint (WxDxH) | 80" x 73" x 87" |
Machine Weight | ~650lbs |
Functions | 12 in 1 strength training system ( power rack, functional trainer, Smith machine, low row, chin up, lat pulldown, dip, suspension trainer) Optional (jammer arms, core trainer, vertical leg press, leg developer) |
Attachments | 18 (J-hooks, safety spotter arms, dual hook curl bar, dual hook straight bar, lat pulldown bar, small straight bar, close grip handle, V-bar, nylon stirrup handles, pulldown rope, low row footplate, lat pulldown knee holder, multigrip dip handles, 4 band pegs, 6 Olympic lock collars, 4 extension chains, 10 carabiners) |
Weight Stack(s) | NA |
Pulley Ratio | 2:1 & 4:1 |
Type | Plate loaded |
The new Force USA G10™ All-In-One Trainer features the World's first interchangeable cable pulley ratio (2:1 and 4:1), Heavy 11-Gauge...
An all in one home gym is a machine or piece of gym equipment that offers the ability to get a full body workout in while using one machine. All in one home gyms come in many shapes and sizes, but their purpose is to get all the benefits of multi gym machines while only using one piece of equipment. If you choose to purchase one of these machines for your home gym you could very well kiss your costly gym membership goodbye.
With all the options of home gym equipment today we wanted to breakdown some of the differences between each all in one home gym machine so that you might better understand which fits your needs.
Single stack home gyms are precisely as the name implies. It has a single-weight stack that gives you the ability to perform many different training moves.
The normal weight stack range is 100-320lb. Single stack home gyms can include both high and low pulleys that will allow you to perform exercises from lat pulldowns to chest press.
Multi-stack home gyms are the same as the single stack, except instead of a single stack of weights, they can have dual weight stacks or more. The multiple stacks usually give athletes more resistance to train and take up more space in your home gym space.
A lever gym is an excellent option that imitates the feel of free-weight movements. The design allows you to maximize your workouts but remains safe since the weight is kept on a lever arm.
The only downside is that you'll need a set of weight plates to use it as there isn't a weight stack. Lever gyms may have a limited range of motion depending on the machine as they have a more fixed movement pattern. Another thing to mention is that unlike many other home gyms usually there isn't a pull-up bar available.
Free weights are a form of training that can be defined as resistance exercises provided by 'free flowing' objects that aren't attached to anything and that you can quite literally pick up and move. A squat stand, power rack, or half rack are some pieces of equipment used in tandem with barbells and weight plates that offer the possibility to train the big upper and lower body compound exercises.
Some examples include barbells with weight plates, dumbbells, kettlebells, and sandbags. Many home gyms will include some free weights which give a little more flexibility for upper body and lower body exercises. For example, you can use one piece of equipment as a bench and squat rack.
The Smith machine is a commercial gym machine consisting of a barbell fixed within steel rails, allowing movement, limiting movement to a vertical or near-vertical plane of motion.
Once again the downside of Smith machines is that you'll need your own weight plates in order to reap the benefits. A few of the best home gyms from above include the Smith machine as part of the overall offering.
A cable machine is a functional trainer that includes cables, weight stack(s), and a pulley system that end with handles. By adjusting the cables' heights and weight increments, you can get almost infinite workout options to help you achieve your goals.
A cable pulley resistance system is a common sight in commercial gyms for good reason. Full body workouts on cable machines can provide constant tension on your muscles and can help you build muscle.
The most famous version of a power rod system is a Bowflex. They are low-impact alternatives to weight-stacked trainers and cable machines. The resistance comes from rods that act like archers when pulling back a bow. The weight starts off light, and the more you bend the rod, the more difficulty increases.
Like the Total Gym, an incline bodyweight machine is a unique style of equipment that uses the user's body weight as the resistance. The more inclined you are while performing the exercise, the harder it becomes. If you're interested in this type of all in one machine then check out our write up that reviews the Best Total Gyms available today.
This type of home gym machine combines technology and fitness. We didn't include the best smart home gym in our best home gym list because we consider this type of workout equipment in a class itself.
Popular smart home gyms include Tonal or Mirror which are multi gyms with a screen to follow an instructor or workout. These smart home gyms usually require monthly payments for access to their follow along with content. If floor space is an issue and money isn't then you might consider opting for a smart home gym.
Portable home gyms can be classified as products like resistance bands, suspension trainers or other gadgets that you can easily carry around with you.
We didn't include, the best portable home gym in this list as they aren't really an exercise machine. Some portable gyms require your own body weight to perform some exercises. Don't get us wrong though, a portable home gym can give you a killer whole body workout.
All in one home gyms, for most people, are a better solution than separate machines because they are cheaper and frequently take up way less space. They also provide enough resistance to build muscle and strength for most people.
For home gyms that plan on having more than one person working out at the same time then you might want to look for a multi-station home gym. Multi-station home gyms will be bigger and more expensive which is the reason why you're likely to find them in commercial gym settings.
When it comes to outfitting your home gym, all in one options have a lot to offer. One of the most significant benefits is the space savings it brings over most other forms of home gyms. They are also cheaper in the long run since you are getting a lot of functionality for your money compared to multiple gym machines that only have specific functions.
Building a proper home gym setup can be a scary and expensive task. If you don't plan properly, you may overspend and take up way too much room in your home. We have listed three of the most significant areas you need to consider before purchasing your home gym essentials.
One of the bigger concerns when buying a home gym is if you know the dimensions of the area where the gym will be positioned. You have to consider how much space you have, then the equipment's footprint and ceiling height.
For example, if the space is tight, then you should consider a home gym with a smaller footprint, such as a compact all in one home gym. Or if you're setting up your own home gym primarily for strength training then a heavy-duty steel frame power rack with a weight bench should be good for your bench press or big leg exercises like squats.
If you have plenty of space, like a garage, consider a multi-station home gym where you can add extra options to increase the range of exercises you can do. If you have the space and budget you could build a complete home gym fitted with commercial grade gym equipment that offers endless exercise options.
All in one home gyms can be expensive, but making constant repairs and replacing equipment are more costly. Look for products with a heavy-duty steel gauge frame that can stand the test of time. A commercial gym will consist of machines built from 12 gauge steel or better. However, you can buy a commercial grade home gym machine these days from multiple brands that are included above in our best home gym list.
Instead of wasting money on cheap machines and accessories, choose equipment with durable materials and more significant weight capacities. These high-quality home gyms can offer higher functionality and features that optimize your workout and challenge you to enhance your performance.
If the multi-gym you're considering buying offers a lifetime warranty then chances are it was built with the highest quality materials and that the company stands behind its products. Remember this could be a once-in-a-lifetime purchase so choose something that will stand the test of time providing you with a lifetime of workouts!
Strength training and muscle building aren't exactly the same, requiring different lifting techniques and equipment. Some people just trying to get stronger in the major compound lifts could get away using a bench and squat rack with some weight plates and a barbell while others looking to build a specific muscle group would be better suited to an exercise machine that provides more exercise options.
If you plan on lifting more weight than a few hundred pounds for any given exercise you should consider a power rack or a squat rack plus a barbell and weight plates. If not then an all in one home gym machine might suffice for full body workouts that can help you build muscle but not tremendous power and strength.
A major factor when buying a home gym is the price range you're able to comfortably afford. All-in-one home gyms can cost a few hundred bucks to $10,000 or more. You need to consider what exercises are the most important in your resistance training then look for a machine that can satisfy these. For example, if squat racks are essential to your training then you should consider a machine that incorporates a half/full rack or a Smith machine.
One of the smartest ways to see if a product is good or not is by looking at the opinions of others that have bought the same product. These reviews offer valuable guidance from people who have already tested the product, making it easier to decide if the product is worth considering.
If the review is mostly positive, the chances are that it would be a great product. If reviews are mostly negative, it is best to leave it alone and find a better option. However, t's important to understand that not all ratings and reviews you read online are 100% truthful.
A handful of the best home gym brands includes the following:
Force USA was founded in the early 2000s with the goal of building strength equipment at competitive prices. They now operate in over 25 countries and create some of the home gym equipment globally.
Bowflex started in 1986 and is well-known for its adjustable dumbbells and unique home gym equipment. Bowflex machines are incredibly affordable, high-quality home gyms that you can buy. Many would say they are the best home gym brand for beginners. If you're interested in home gyms from them, make sure to check out the post where we covered the Best Bowflex Home Gym Machines on the market.
Body-Solid is one of the leaders when it comes to home gym equipment. They've been around since the late 1980s, and in that time, they've developed an incredible reputation for the quality of their fitness equipment. Plus, their lifetime warranty is a much-appreciated perk.
Life Fitness is one of the world's most recognizable manufacturers of high-quality home gym and commercial equipment. The company has been building racks, cable machines, all in ones, and cardio equipment for more than 40 years.
Total Gym is a reputable company known for its Total Body home gym and commercial fitness exercise equipment and is the world's leading manufacturer of incline body weight training. Chuck Norris endorses this product, so it must be good.
Is a Home Gym Worth It?
Absolutely! Installing the right home gym for you is worth the time and money you'll dedicate to it. It's an investment in your fitness and overall health; while also providing faster workouts, extra motivation, and convenience, knowing that everything you'll need is at home.
Your fitness goals, budget and space available will influence whether or not you need a home gym. If you're looking for a portable home gym then you could try using some heavy-duty resistance bands. If you want to just work on squats get a squat stand. We do believe that a quality home gym is worth the investment for most people if you're serious about getting in shape.
How Much Does an All-In-One Home Gym Cost?
Prices vary, but you can usually find a decent all in one home gym in the $400-$6,000+ range, depending on your needs. If you add up all the associated costs of a gym membership plus commute time and hassle then home gym machines could be a bargain.
What Is The Best All-Around Home Gym?
Trying to decide the best overall home gym was a difficult task as there were many options, but we'd go with the Force USA G3 Home Gym. Overall it's tough to beat its exercise versatility, overall size, and affordable price point.
If you're looking to save money, the Bowflex PR1000 home gym is the best option. It has enough functionality to get a decent workout in, and at $600 it is an absolute steal.
If money is no problem, you might go for the most premium option. The Force USA G10 has all the bells and whistles you could want in an all in one option.
Are All-In-One Home Gyms Better Than Free Weights?
Deciding what to use is never an easy feat in your training, especially when it's a question like an all in one home gym vs. free weights. Like with any exercise equipment, there are benefits to both of them. This one is dependent on what your goals are. If you want to work multiple muscle groups with a home workout machine then a simple squat stand won't cut it.
Can I Build Muscle With an All-In-One Home Gym?
Absolutely! Building muscles comes down to how you train, so if you put in the work, all in ones are set up to help you build impressive muscles and shape your body. Scientific studies have shown that you can build muscle with both weight lifting machines and free weights. You can get a total body workout completed on a multi-gym like the ones listed above.
Gyms are great, but the long waits to use the equipment and gym membership fees are not. We all live hectic lives, and we're constantly trying to find ways to free up some time in our daily routines, save some money, and still get a great workout.
All in one home gyms allow us to get in a workout right in the comfort of our own home, saving us time from the commute and saving us money in the long run.
We hope the options we provided gave you some great home gym ideas that you could be taking advantage of.
As a final recap, here are our top 3 picks:
Prefer your equipment to be more compact? Check out these 7 Compact Home Gyms.
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