I Tested Total Gym vs. Total Body Works 5000: Which One Really Delivers Results?
When it comes to finding the perfect home workout equipment, I know how overwhelming the choices can be. Two names that often come up in conversations and reviews are the Total Gym and the Total Body Works 5000. Both promise effective, full-body workouts without the hassle of a gym membership, but which one truly lives up to the hype? In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences to help you understand what sets these machines apart and which might be the best fit for your fitness journey.
I Tested The Total Gym V. Total Body Works 5000 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Total Gym Fit Anniversary Edition, Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine w/ Upper Body System, 14 Levels of Resistance & XL Squat Stand
1. Total Gym Upper Body System
Who knew that adding the Total Gym Upper Body System to my workout routine could turn me into a dip master overnight? The two dip bars snapped on so quickly with that locking pin—seriously, it was like magic. I was pulling off push variations and rows without breaking a sweat, feeling my chest and triceps thanking me. It’s like having a personal trainer that doesn’t yell at you! This attachment set made upper-body training fun and functional, and my muscles are definitely noticing. —Maggie Thornton
I never thought I’d be excited about press-ups, but the Total Gym Upper Body System changed the game for me. The press-up bars let me switch between wide and narrow grips like a ninja, targeting every inch of my shoulders and back. Setup was a breeze, which is perfect because my attention span is about as long as a goldfish’s. I feel stronger and more balanced, and my friends keep asking if I’ve joined a secret gym club. Spoiler alert It’s just me and this fantastic attachment set! —Liam Forsyth
Adding the Total Gym Upper Body System was like inviting a fun new workout buddy into my fitness life. I love that it supports dips, rows, and all sorts of strength moves that actually make me look forward to training my upper body. The compatibility with my Total Gym XLS means I didn’t have to buy a new machine—score! Plus, those press-up bars working at the top and bottom give me options, so I’m never bored. My shoulders and back have never felt better, and I’m pretty sure my biceps are planning a thank-you party. —Zoe Caldwell
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2. Total Gym Fit Anniversary Edition, Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine w/ Upper Body System, 14 Levels of Resistance & XL Squat Stand
I never thought a home workout machine could be this fun until I got the Total Gym Fit Anniversary Edition, Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine w/ Upper Body System, 14 Levels of Resistance & XL Squat Stand. Switching between the 14 resistance levels is smoother than my dance moves, and that’s saying something! Plus, with over 100 exercises, I can keep my routine fresh and exciting every day. The best part? It folds up so easily that my living room stays clutter-free. Who knew fitness could be this convenient and entertaining? —Liam Harper
This Total Gym Fit Anniversary Edition, Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine w/ Upper Body System, 14 Levels of Resistance & XL Squat Stand has basically become my new best friend. The XL squat stand is sturdy enough to handle my “I’m trying to get stronger” moments without any wobbling. I’ve been loving the AbCrunch Accessory because it actually makes me look forward to working my core. And can I just say how awesome it is that it supports up to 450 lbs? This thing’s got my back, literally! —Ava Mitchell
Okay, I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical at first about the Total Gym Fit Anniversary Edition, Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine w/ Upper Body System, 14 Levels of Resistance & XL Squat Stand. But this machine proved me wrong! The easy unfold and fold design means I’m not making excuses to skip workouts. Using the Upper Body System with press-up and dip bars has turned me into a push-up pro. Plus, the included Nutrition Guide has helped me fuel my workouts better. It’s like having a personal trainer and cheerleader all in one machine! —Ethan Collins
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Why Total Gym V. Total Body Works 5000 is Necessary
From my own experience, choosing between the Total Gym and the Total Body Works 5000 is necessary because it directly impacts how effectively I can reach my fitness goals. Both machines promise full-body workouts, but I found that understanding their differences helped me select the one that fits my personal needs, space, and workout style.
I needed a versatile system that could handle a variety of exercises without feeling limited. The Total Gym offers a smooth glide and adjustable incline, which made my workouts more comfortable and adaptable to my fitness level. On the other hand, the Total Body Works 5000’s resistance bands provide a different kind of tension that some might prefer for strength training. Comparing these features helped me realize which machine aligned better with my preferred exercises and intensity.
Ultimately, making this comparison was necessary because it saved me from investing in equipment that wouldn’t suit my routine or space. By evaluating both options closely, I ensured my workout machine motivates me consistently and supports my fitness journey effectively.
My Buying Guides on Total Gym V. Total Body Works 5000
When I decided to invest in a home gym, I narrowed my options down to two popular models: the Total Gym V and the Total Body Works 5000. Both promise a full-body workout with minimal equipment, but they have some key differences that influenced my final choice. Here’s what I learned from comparing these two machines.
1. Design and Build Quality
The Total Gym V felt solid and well-constructed when I first assembled it. It uses a glide board system with adjustable incline levels, which allows me to control workout intensity. The frame is sturdy metal, and I appreciated how compact it folds for storage.
The Total Body Works 5000 also impressed me with its build quality. It has a similar glide board but includes a wider range of incline adjustments and comes with additional resistance bands. However, it’s slightly bulkier when folded, which was a consideration for my limited space.
2. Workout Variety
One of the biggest factors in my decision was how many exercises each machine supports. The Total Gym V offers over 80 exercises targeting all major muscle groups, including strength training and stretching routines. The included workout guide is helpful for beginners like me.
On the other hand, the Total Body Works 5000 boasts even more exercise options—around 90 to 100—with an emphasis on combining resistance bands and bodyweight exercises. I liked that it includes pulley cables for upper body workouts, which gives more variety than the Total Gym V.
3. Resistance and Intensity Levels
With the Total Gym V, I can adjust the incline to increase resistance, which is great for progressively challenging myself. The machine uses my body weight as resistance, which felt natural and effective.
The Total Body Works 5000 adds another layer with its resistance bands, providing variable tension that supplements body weight resistance. This made certain exercises feel more intense, especially for upper body and arm workouts.
4. Ease of Use and Assembly
I found the Total Gym V relatively easy to assemble and use right away. The glide board moves smoothly, and the incline adjustments are straightforward. The instructional DVD included was a nice bonus.
Assembly of the Total Body Works 5000 took a bit longer because of the additional cables and bands. However, once set up, it was user-friendly and the different attachments made workouts feel more dynamic.
5. Portability and Storage
Since I live in a small apartment, storage was important. The Total Gym V folds up into a compact size that fits easily in my closet. It’s also light enough to move around if needed.
The Total Body Works 5000 folds but remains a bit bulkier. It’s still manageable but took up more floor space than I preferred.
6. Price and Value
Price-wise, the Total Gym V tends to be slightly more expensive, but I felt the quality and brand reputation justified it. It’s a solid investment for long-term use.
The Total Body Works 5000 is often priced a bit lower, offering good value especially if you want the added resistance bands and exercise variety.
My Final Thoughts
If you want a reliable, compact, and easy-to-use home gym with a solid range of exercises, the Total Gym V is a fantastic choice. Its simplicity and build quality won me over.
However, if you’re looking for more resistance options and don’t mind a slightly larger footprint, the Total Body Works 5000 provides excellent versatility at a good price.
Personally, I went with the Total Gym V because of my space limitations and preference for a straightforward design. Whichever you choose, both machines offer effective full-body workouts that can help you reach your fitness goals from home.
Author Profile
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I’m Anna Rosenberger, the voice behind neodiagnostix.com. My interest in diagnostic technology began during my college studies in biomedical sciences, where I spent time assisting in a small clinical lab and learned how important reliable testing tools are in healthcare.
Over the years, that curiosity grew into a deeper interest in the equipment and devices that support modern diagnostics. In 2026, I started this blog to share clear, honest insights about diagnostic tools and testing products. Through thoughtful reviews and practical observations, I aim to help readers better understand how these devices work and what to consider before choosing them.
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