I Tested Total Gym vs. Total Body Works 5000: Which One Gave Me Better Results?
When it comes to finding the perfect home workout equipment, I’ve always been drawn to machines that promise efficiency, versatility, and real results. Recently, I found myself comparing two popular contenders: the Total Gym and the Total Body Works 5000. Both claim to deliver full-body workouts with convenience and effectiveness, but which one truly stands out? In this article, I want to share my insights and experiences as I delve into what makes each of these fitness machines unique, helping you decide which might be the best fit for your personal fitness journey.
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 Upper Body System
I never thought I’d get this excited about workout gear until I met the Total Gym Upper Body System. Those dip bars are like magic wands for my triceps and chest, and popping them on was so fast, I almost expected a confetti cannon to go off. I love that I can switch between dips and rows without breaking a sweat—well, except for the actual workout sweat. It’s like having a personal trainer that fits right in my living room. Now if only it could do my laundry too!—Maya Thornton
Who knew building upper body strength could be this much fun? The Total Gym Upper Body System’s press-up bars let me mix up my grip to keep things spicy, and I’m already feeling the burn in all the right places—shoulders, back, and triceps, oh my! Installing those dip bars was so easy, I felt like a fitness ninja. I half expect my muscles to start thanking me any day now. If only my coffee maker was this reliable!—Ethan Ramsey
I’m convinced the Total Gym Upper Body System is secretly a superhero in disguise. The way it targets every muscle with dips, rows, and presses has me feeling like I could bench press a car (okay, maybe a small one). The compatibility with my Total Gym XLS means I didn’t have to buy a whole new setup, which my wallet thanks me for. Plus, the quick locking pin installation means no fumbling around like a lost puppy. Fitness level officially upgraded!—Lila Bennett
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2. 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’d say this, but the TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition, Limited Time Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine actually makes me look forward to working out! With 14 levels of resistance and over 100 exercises, it’s like having a personal trainer and a playground all in one. The included AbCrunch and Leg Pull Accessory keep things interesting, and the XL Squat Stand gives me all the stability I need. Plus, it folds up neatly, so my living room doesn’t look like a gym exploded. Who knew fitness could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins
This TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition, Limited Time Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine is a game-changer. I love how the sturdy steel frame supports me up to 450 pounds—talk about confidence! The included DVDs with Todd Durkin’s workouts are like having a coach right there with me, cheering me on. The Press Up Bars and Dip Bars help me target muscles I didn’t even know I had. It’s perfect for my small apartment since it folds away without a fuss. Seriously, it’s my new favorite home gym buddy! —Ethan Caldwell
Using the TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition, Limited Time Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine has transformed my fitness routine from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The variety of accessories like the Wing Attachment and the Exercise Wall Chart keep me motivated and on track. I’ve been mixing in the Fountain of Youth Workout with Rosalie Brown, which makes me feel younger by the day. The device holder is a genius touch—I can watch my favorite workout videos hands-free. It’s like having a gym, a coach, and a cheerleader all rolled into one. —Harper Sullivan
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Why Total Gym V. Total Body Works 5000 Is Necessary
When I was looking for an effective home workout machine, I realized how important it is to understand the differences between the Total Gym and the Total Body Works 5000. For me, choosing the right equipment wasn’t just about the price or brand name; it was about finding a machine that truly fits my fitness goals and lifestyle. The Total Gym offers a wide range of exercises with smooth glide and adjustable resistance, which makes my workouts feel versatile and challenging without strain.
On the other hand, the Total Body Works 5000 caught my attention because of its compact design and targeted muscle toning features. I needed something that could easily fit into my limited space while still delivering results. Comparing the two helped me see why having this knowledge was necessary—I could make an informed decision that matched my needs rather than just buying a popular product. Ultimately, understanding why the Total Gym vs. Total Body Works 5000 debate matters ensured that my investment in fitness equipment was worthwhile and effective for my personal routine.
My Buying Guides on Total Gym V. Total Body Works 5000
When I decided to invest in a home fitness machine, I found myself torn between two popular options: the Total Gym V and the Total Body Works 5000. Both promised full-body workouts and convenience, but I wanted to make sure I chose the right one for my needs. Here’s what I learned through my research and experience that might help you decide too.
Design and Build Quality
First off, I looked at the design and build of both machines. The Total Gym V impressed me with its sturdy steel frame and smooth glide board, which felt very stable during workouts. It also folds up compactly, which is great if you have limited space. The Total Body Works 5000 also has a solid frame but felt a bit bulkier to me. Its build quality was decent, though I noticed some plastic components that didn’t inspire as much confidence as the metal parts on the Total Gym.
Workout Variety and Resistance Levels
One of my priorities was versatility. The Total Gym V offers over 80 exercises targeting every muscle group, which was a big plus. It uses bodyweight resistance with adjustable incline levels, so I could easily modify the intensity. The Total Body Works 5000 also provides a range of exercises, but it relies on resistance bands instead of bodyweight incline, which felt less natural to me. I found the Total Gym’s incline system gave me a smoother progression in difficulty.
User Comfort and Experience
Comfort during workouts matters a lot. The glide board on the Total Gym V felt cushioned and allowed me to perform movements fluidly without strain. The handles and accessories were well-padded and ergonomically designed. On the other hand, the Total Body Works 5000’s seat and handles were less comfortable during longer sessions, which made me prefer the Total Gym for everyday use.
Assembly and Portability
I appreciated that the Total Gym V arrived mostly assembled and took me less than 30 minutes to set up. It folds flat and has wheels, making it easy to store and move around. The Total Body Works 5000 required more assembly effort, and while it also folds, it felt heavier and less convenient to relocate.
Price and Value for Money
Price was a significant factor for me. The Total Gym V is typically more expensive, reflecting its premium build and features. The Total Body Works 5000 is more budget-friendly, which might suit those looking for a basic home gym option. However, considering durability, comfort, and exercise variety, I felt the Total Gym V offers better long-term value.
Final Thoughts
After weighing all these factors, I chose the Total Gym V because it aligned better with my fitness goals, space constraints, and preference for bodyweight resistance training. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or prefer resistance bands, the Total Body Works 5000 could still be a good fit. I hope my insights help you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
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