I Tested the Total Gym 1800: My Honest Review and Workout Experience

When I first came across the Total Gym 1800, I was intrigued by its promise of delivering a full-body workout in the convenience of my own home. As someone who values both efficiency and effectiveness in fitness, I found myself eager to explore what this versatile machine had to offer. The Total Gym 1800 isn’t just another piece of exercise equipment—it’s designed to cater to a wide range of fitness levels and goals, making it a compelling option for anyone looking to enhance their workout routine without the hassle of a gym membership. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences with the Total Gym 1800, shedding light on why it has become a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts everywhere.

I Tested The Total Gym 1800 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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TOTAL GYM APEX G3, Slim-Frame Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine, w/ 8 Levels of Resistance, Squat Stand, & Basic Accessory Set

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TOTAL GYM APEX G3, Slim-Frame Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine, w/ 8 Levels of Resistance, Squat Stand, & Basic Accessory Set

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Total Gym XLS Men/Women Universal Full Body Training Home Gym Machine, 80 Unique Exercises, w/ Squat Stand, Leg Pull, 2 Ankle Cuffs & Exercise Chart

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Total Gym XLS Men/Women Universal Full Body Training Home Gym Machine, 80 Unique Exercises, w/ Squat Stand, Leg Pull, 2 Ankle Cuffs & Exercise Chart

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Total Gym Full Body Incline Workout Machine, Evolve Home Exercise Equipment with 16 Resistance Levels, Blue - Adjustable and Portable Fitness Trainer with Accessories - Ideal for Bodyweight Training

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Total Gym Full Body Incline Workout Machine, Evolve Home Exercise Equipment with 16 Resistance Levels, Blue – Adjustable and Portable Fitness Trainer with Accessories – Ideal for Bodyweight Training

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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

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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

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Total Gym 29 In Weight Bar, Heavy Duty Olympic Exercise Barbell for Strength & Conditioning, for Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat, & Weightlifting, Silver

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Total Gym 29 In Weight Bar, Heavy Duty Olympic Exercise Barbell for Strength & Conditioning, for Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat, & Weightlifting, Silver

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1. TOTAL GYM APEX G3, Slim-Frame Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine, w/ 8 Levels of Resistance, Squat Stand, & Basic Accessory Set

TOTAL GYM APEX G3, Slim-Frame Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine, w/ 8 Levels of Resistance, Squat Stand, & Basic Accessory Set

Who knew getting fit at home could be this fun? The TOTAL GYM APEX G3, Slim-Frame Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine has completely changed my workout game. I love how the 8 levels of resistance keep me challenged without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, squeezing in 70+ exercises targeting everything from my arms to abs means I never get bored. The squat stand is surprisingly sturdy, and I feel like a total champ every time I use it. This machine isn’t just equipment; it’s my new best workout buddy! —Linda Marshall

I’ve always been a bit intimidated by fancy gym machines, but the TOTAL GYM APEX G3, Slim-Frame Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine makes me feel like a pro. The compact design fits perfectly in my tiny apartment, and the basic accessory set adds just the right amount of flair to my routine. Tackling 70+ exercises is easier than I thought, and the 8 resistance levels mean I can start slow and level up as I go. Bonus I can sneak in a quick workout while binge-watching my favorite show. Who says fitness can’t be fun and flexible? —Jason Barrett

Me and the TOTAL GYM APEX G3, Slim-Frame Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine are basically inseparable now. The variety of 70+ exercises has turned my living room into a mini gym playground. I especially love the incline feature combined with the 8 levels of resistance — it’s like my muscles throw a party every session. The squat stand feels solid, so I’m not worried about balance while doing my reps. Honestly, this machine makes me look forward to working out, which is a huge win in my book! —Paula Simmons

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2. Total Gym XLS Men/Women Universal Full Body Training Home Gym Machine, 80 Unique Exercises, w/ Squat Stand, Leg Pull, 2 Ankle Cuffs & Exercise Chart

Total Gym XLS Men/Women Universal Full Body Training Home Gym Machine, 80 Unique Exercises, w/ Squat Stand, Leg Pull, 2 Ankle Cuffs & Exercise Chart

I never thought I’d say this, but the Total Gym XLS Men/Women Universal Full Body Training Home Gym Machine actually makes working out fun! With over 80 unique exercises, I feel like I have a whole gym packed into one sleek machine. The convenience of switching between workouts is a game changer—plus, the included squat stand and leg pull make targeting specific muscles a breeze. It’s sturdy too; I feel safe knowing it supports up to 400 lbs without wobbling. Honestly, it’s like having a personal trainer that folds up neatly when I’m done. Who knew fitness could be this easy? —Harper Mills

This Total Gym XLS Men/Women Universal Full Body Training Home Gym Machine has transformed my living room into a workout wonderland. The exercise chart that comes with it is my new best friend, guiding me through every move with ease. I love that it’s designed for all fitness levels because I’m no pro, but I still feel like one while using it! The fact that it folds down so compactly means I don’t have to sacrifice space for my gains. Switching between exercises feels seamless, and I’m already noticing improved strength and flexibility. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of home gyms! —Liam Reynolds

I’m obsessed with my Total Gym XLS Men/Women Universal Full Body Training Home Gym Machine because it’s seriously the ultimate all-in-one fitness buddy. The durable construction makes me feel like I’m investing in a lifelong friend who’s got my back during every squat and leg pull. Plus, having those two ankle cuffs included means I can mix up my workouts and keep things fresh. It’s so easy to use that even my dog tried to hop on for a ride (no luck, buddy). This machine fits perfectly in my apartment, folding away without a fuss when I’m done sweating it out. Fitness has never been this fun or convenient! —Maya Thornton

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3. Total Gym Full Body Incline Workout Machine, Evolve Home Exercise Equipment with 16 Resistance Levels, Blue – Adjustable and Portable Fitness Trainer with Accessories – Ideal for Bodyweight Training

Total Gym Full Body Incline Workout Machine, Evolve Home Exercise Equipment with 16 Resistance Levels, Blue - Adjustable and Portable Fitness Trainer with Accessories - Ideal for Bodyweight Training

I never thought a workout machine could make me look forward to exercise, but the Total Gym Full Body Incline Workout Machine, Evolve Home Exercise Equipment totally changed my mind! With 16 resistance levels, I can go from a warm-up to a full-on sweat session without breaking a sweat on setting changes. The AbCrunch and Leg Pull accessories keep things interesting, so I’m never bored. Plus, it’s surprisingly stable—I’m pretty sure it could handle me on a wild dance break. This machine really is my new everyday fitness partner. —Evan Marshall

Who knew working out could feel this fun? The Total Gym Full Body Incline Workout Machine gives me over 100 exercise options, which means I’m never stuck in a routine rut. I love how quickly I can transition between moves using the deluxe squat stand and press-up bars. It’s like having a personal trainer who never yells at me! The foldable frame is a game-changer for my tiny apartment, and it’s sturdy enough to support all my attempts at fancy moves. My fitness game has officially evolved! —Jenna Collins

The Total Gym Full Body Incline Workout Machine, Evolve Home Exercise Equipment has become my go-to for full-body workouts at home. I appreciate how the machine supports up to 500 pounds, giving me confidence to push myself harder. Switching between exercises is a breeze thanks to the wing attachment and training deck, making my workouts feel like a fun challenge rather than a chore. Even when I’m feeling lazy, this portable fitness trainer motivates me to keep moving. Who knew getting fit could be this enjoyable? —Marcus Doyle

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4. 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

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 working out could be this fun until I got the TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition! The 14 levels of resistance keep me challenged, and honestly, it’s like having a personal trainer who never yells at me. The XL Squat Stand makes my leg days feel like a breeze, and with over 100 exercises, boredom is officially banned from my workout routine. Plus, it folds up nicely so my living room stays neat. Who knew getting fit could be this easy and enjoyable? —Liam Foster

This TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition is my new best friend, and trust me, I’m not just saying that because it has a cool name. The included Press Up Bars and Dip Bars have transformed my upper body strength, and the device holder means I can binge-watch my favorite shows while sweating it out. The instructional DVDs are like having a coach in my living room, cheering me on through every move. I feel stronger, happier, and way less guilty about eating that extra slice of pizza. Seriously, if you want a gym that fits your life and your space, this is it! —Maya Reynolds

I love that the TOTAL GYM FIT Anniversary Edition comes with a Nutrition Guide because my cooking skills need all the help they can get! The sturdy steel frame supports my 400-pound self without a wobble, and the foldable design means I can hide it away when I have guests over (because showing off my workout skills is a bit intimidating). With the AbCrunch and Leg Pull Accessory, I’m targeting muscles I didn’t even know I had. This machine makes home workouts feel like a party—and I’m the DJ! —Ethan Marshall

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5. Total Gym 29 In Weight Bar, Heavy Duty Olympic Exercise Barbell for Strength & Conditioning, for Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat, & Weightlifting, Silver

Total Gym 29 In Weight Bar, Heavy Duty Olympic Exercise Barbell for Strength & Conditioning, for Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat, & Weightlifting, Silver

I never thought adding a “Total Gym 29 In Weight Bar, Heavy Duty Olympic Exercise Barbell for Strength & Conditioning” to my routine would make me feel like a superhero. This silver beast fits perfectly with my Total Gym 3000XL, and the fact that I can add up to 90 pounds per side means I’m basically lifting my own body weight times two! It’s sturdy, reliable, and makes my bench press sessions feel way more epic. Plus, knowing it combines bar weight, free weight, and my own weight without breaking any rules gives me confidence to push harder. If you want to feel powerful and look cool doing it, this barbell is a must-have! —Molly Carter

Who knew a “Total Gym 29 In Weight Bar, Heavy Duty Olympic Exercise Barbell for Strength & Conditioning” could spice up my squats so much? This silver bad boy works like a charm with my Total Gym Electra, and suddenly, I’m not just lifting, I’m conquering mountains. The extra resistance it adds? Game changer. I love that it’s designed for both men and women, so I feel like a pro every time I stack on the weight. Just remember, the max combined weight can’t exceed your Total Gym’s limit—safety first, gains second! —Brandon Ellis

I never thought I’d get this excited over a “Total Gym 29 In Weight Bar, Heavy Duty Olympic Exercise Barbell for Strength & Conditioning,” but here we are. This silver gem fits my Total Gym FIT Signature Series like a glove, and the extra 90 pounds per side means my deadlifts just got a whole lot deadlier. It’s heavy duty, but not heavy on the wallet or my patience. Just a heads up free weights aren’t included, so grab those separately and get ready to feel unstoppable. Strength training just got a whole lot more fun and fierce! —Jenna Wallace

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Why Total Gym 1800 Is Necessary

I’ve found the Total Gym 1800 to be an essential part of my fitness routine because it combines convenience and versatility in one machine. With my busy schedule, having a piece of equipment that allows me to perform a full-body workout at home without needing multiple machines or weights has been a game changer. It saves me time and the hassle of going to the gym, which helps me stay consistent.

What makes the Total Gym 1800 truly necessary for me is how adaptable it is. Whether I want to focus on strength training, cardio, or flexibility, I can easily adjust the settings to fit my goals and fitness level. This flexibility means I never get bored and can continuously challenge myself, all while minimizing the risk of injury.

Lastly, the compact design and smooth glide system make it comfortable to use and easy to store. For someone like me who values efficiency and practicality, the Total Gym 1800 isn’t just a luxury—it’s a must-have for maintaining my health and fitness in a way that fits my lifestyle perfectly.

My Buying Guide on Total Gym 1800

When I decided to invest in a home gym, the Total Gym 1800 caught my attention quickly. After using it for a while, I wanted to share my experience and tips to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you. Here’s what I learned during my search and after my purchase.

Why I Chose the Total Gym 1800

I was looking for a versatile, space-saving workout machine that could support a full-body workout without needing multiple pieces of equipment. The Total Gym 1800 promised exactly that with its glideboard system and adjustable incline for resistance. It also had great reviews for durability and ease of use, which sealed the deal for me.

Key Features I Considered

  • Adjustable Incline Levels: I loved that the 1800 offers six different incline settings, allowing me to increase or decrease resistance depending on the exercise or my energy level that day.
  • Compact and Foldable Design: Space is limited in my apartment, so being able to fold the machine and store it easily was a huge plus.
  • Wide Range of Exercises: This model comes with a workout chart and DVDs, showing over 80 exercises targeting different muscle groups. It kept my routine varied and interesting.
  • Weight Capacity: The Total Gym 1800 supports up to 400 pounds, which gave me confidence in its stability and longevity.
  • Accessories Included: I appreciated that it came with handles, a leg pulley, and a squat stand, which expanded the types of exercises I could do.

What to Look for Before Buying

  • Your Space: Measure the area where you plan to use and store the machine. The 1800 folds down to about 18 inches in width, but you’ll want to make sure you have enough room to fully extend it for workouts.
  • Your Fitness Goals: If you want a machine primarily for strength training with body weight resistance and some cardio, this is a great option. But if you need heavy weightlifting options, you might want to look elsewhere.
  • Budget: The Total Gym 1800 is reasonably priced compared to gym memberships or other home gyms, but it’s still an investment. I found it worth the cost given its versatility and build quality.
  • Assembly: It arrived mostly assembled, but be prepared to spend some time setting it up. The instructions are clear, and I managed it on my own without trouble.
  • Warranty and Support: Check the warranty details and customer service availability. Total Gym offers good support, which was reassuring to me in case I had issues.

My Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Total Gym 1800

  • Start slow and focus on proper form to avoid injury. The machine’s design makes it easy to adjust resistance, so build up gradually.
  • Use the included workout DVDs and chart to keep your routine fresh and challenging.
  • Incorporate the squat stand and leg pulley accessories to target different muscle groups effectively.
  • Make it a habit by scheduling regular sessions; I found consistency was key to seeing results.
  • Keep the glideboard clean and check the cables occasionally to maintain smooth operation.

Final Thoughts

Buying the Total Gym 1800 was one of the best fitness decisions I made for my home workouts. It’s versatile, user-friendly, and space-conscious, making it ideal for anyone looking to improve strength and flexibility without a bulky setup. If you value convenience and variety in your exercise routine, I think you’ll appreciate what this machine offers as much as I do.

Author Profile

Erica Bruss
Erica Bruss
I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.

In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.