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Total Gym is a reliable brand that was started in 1974 and is still going strong today. Finding the right one can be tough since there are so many models, so we thought it best to compare two of their best. Our Total Gym XLS vs Apex G5 review will show you which is ideal for building muscle and losing fat.
Our Total Gym Apex G5 vs XLS review will compare these based on exercises, weight limit, accessories, storage, and any other differences we can find.
This is nearly a tie in many ways, but we found that XLS felt sturdier and had a better weight limit. However, Apex G5 is at a better price point and is just as reliable.
| Total Gym XLS | Total Gym Apex G5 |
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How Many Total Gym Models Are There?
Since the brand has been around for many decades, we found that there are dozens of different models, and each one has its own pros and cons. In terms of Total Gym XLS vs Total Gym Apex G5 for example, we found that one is better priced, but the other has better weight capacity and feels sturdier.
While many of the models are similar, it’s important to keep their differences in mind. Really look at what you’re getting to see which is right for you. Every Total Gym follows the same basic principle of using your bodyweight as resistance. The major differences you’ll find are the accessories, number of exercises, and resistance levels.
Total Gym Apex vs XLS: Exercises
The best home gym equipment works your whole body, not just one muscle group. Because of that, you want to make sure that you can do lots of exercises with your chosen home gym. We’d call this section a tie since both XLS and Apex are largely the same, but XLS does offer a tiny bit more.
If we look at the base model, then both of these offer over 80 exercises. This includes Total Gym workouts for your chest, arms, legs, back, and more. You’ll have no problem strengthening your entire body because they’re both highly versatile.
While they are very similar, we would say that XLS has a slight edge. You can choose to have the optional Total Body Ab Crunch accessory added to the equipment. This allows you to do more core workouts.
It’s very close. They’re nearly identical, but XLS does offer a slight bit more.
Check Price: Total Gym Apex G5 ->
Total Gym Apex G5 vs XLS: Weight Limit
The Total Gym weight limit for both of these is similar, but once again we found that XLS has a slight lead. However, while it’s only somewhat better on paper, we found that it felt much better in person. At the same time, Apex G5 fires back with more resistance levels.
In terms of weight, the Total Gym XLS weight limit is 400lbs while Total Gym Apex weight limit is 375lbs. For most people, that small difference won’t matter too much. For those who are close to the limit, this might be a deciding factor for you.
More than that though, we found that XLS felt sturdier. We wouldn’t say that Apex wobbled or felt unsafe, but XLS just seemed more solid and well built.
We also need to consider resistance levels. You increase the resistance by placing the backrest on an incline. XLS offers 6 resistance levels while Apex has 8-10 (depending on which you choose).
While it has fewer resistance levels, we still think XLS wins by a small margin here.
| Total Gym XLS | Total Gym Apex G5 |
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Total Gym XLS vs Apex: Accessories
This section is a tie as they come with the same basic accessories. Unlike some gym equipment that comes with tons of extra pieces, Total Gym is fairly basic. We still want to let you know what Total Gym accessories you get, but we can’t say that it’s a very long list. We also didn’t find any significant differences between the two here.
Both of them come with cables and handles for both arm and leg workouts. There’s also a mat to keep your floor clean and free of scuffs and scratches. That’s about it.
While the accessories aren’t overwhelming, it’s still enough to let you do over 80 workouts.
Total Gym XLS vs Apex G5: Storage
Another tie here because they both store in the same way. Much like with accessories, both of these follow the norm. Unlike accessories though, Total Gym storage is amazing as you can easily place it just about anywhere.
All you need to do is fold the backrest up and then place it in a closet, corner, or under your bed. It’s very easy and no one will even know the gym is there. Another great thing is that you don’t need to dedicate a ton of space to this home gym, unlike most Bowflex home gyms.
While they’re the same, we believe that both are fantastic for their easy storage.
Check Price: Total Gym Apex G5 ->
What is the Difference Between Total Gym XLS and Apex G5?
Curious about what is the difference between Total Gym Apex G5 and XLS? They look similar and are nearly identical in some ways, but we did find a few differences worth mentioning.
While they have the same number of exercises on paper, we found that XLS could do a few extra if you get the optional Ab Crunch accessory. Their weight limit is also slightly different as XLS can hold more weight and felt sturdier, but Apex did offer more resistance levels.
In terms of storage and accessories though, they were basically the same.
| Total Gym XLS | Total Gym Apex G5 |
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Final Thoughts
So, who wins when it comes to Total Gym Apex G5 vs Total Gym XLS? It’s very close, we have to say that XLS offered a little bit more and felt more durable. At the same time, Apex has basically all the same features but is at a better price point.