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 comfort of my own home. As someone who values efficiency and versatility in fitness equipment, the idea of a single machine that could target multiple muscle groups without the need for bulky weights or complicated setups immediately caught my attention. The Total Gym 1800 has gained a reputation for combining ease of use with effective results, making it a popular choice for people looking to enhance their strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. In this article, I want to share what makes this piece of equipment stand out and why it might just be the workout solution you’ve been searching for.

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

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Sconva Fitness Pulley Cable Replacement for All Total Gym Models 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, XLS Up - Adjustable Home Gym Cable Pulley System Replacement Fitness Cable for Pulley Machine Accessories

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Sconva Fitness Pulley Cable Replacement for All Total Gym Models 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, XLS Up – Adjustable Home Gym Cable Pulley System Replacement Fitness Cable for Pulley Machine Accessories

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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 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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Total Gym PILS Men & Women Full Body Pilates Workout Kit, w/ Instructional DVD, Toe Bar, Leg Pull Accessory, Leg Extension Rope, & Ankle Cuffs, Black

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Total Gym PILS Men & Women Full Body Pilates Workout Kit, w/ Instructional DVD, Toe Bar, Leg Pull Accessory, Leg Extension Rope, & Ankle Cuffs, Black

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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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1. Sconva Fitness Pulley Cable Replacement for All Total Gym Models 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, XLS Up – Adjustable Home Gym Cable Pulley System Replacement Fitness Cable for Pulley Machine Accessories

Sconva Fitness Pulley Cable Replacement for All Total Gym Models 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, XLS Up - Adjustable Home Gym Cable Pulley System Replacement Fitness Cable for Pulley Machine Accessories

I never thought replacing a cable could be this satisfying until I got the Sconva Fitness Pulley Cable Replacement for All Total Gym Models 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, XLS Up. The exercise cable length of 100.8 inches gave me plenty of room to stretch and flex without feeling cramped. Plus, the black PU coating not only looks sleek but made installation a breeze—no sweat! I’m pretty sure this cable has turned my home gym into a pro setup, and it handles up to 300 pounds like a champ. Who knew upgrading gym gear could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins

This Sconva Fitness Pulley Cable Replacement for All Total Gym Models 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, XLS Up is like the superhero of gym cables. The high-strength steel cable wrapped in PU material feels tougher than my Monday morning coffee. It’s so quiet and smooth, I barely noticed it working while I crushed my workout. And knowing it’s compatible with all metal frame Total Gyms means I don’t have to worry about weird fit issues. My biceps and triceps are officially fans of this heavy-duty upgrade! —Elijah Turner

I’m convinced the Sconva Fitness Pulley Cable Replacement for All Total Gym Models 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, XLS Up is secretly a magician. This cable’s professional pulley cable connection joints and heavy-duty alloy buckle made me feel like I just tricked my old worn-out cable into retirement. It’s super reliable and safe, which means I can lift with confidence instead of fear. Plus, it’s perfect whether I’m training at home or sneaking in some reps at the gym. A total win for anyone serious about their fitness game! —Sophie Caldwell

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2. 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 that the TOTAL GYM APEX G3, Slim-Frame Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine, w/ 8 Levels of Resistance, Squat Stand, & Basic Accessory Set could make me feel like a fitness ninja? I’ve been using the 70+ exercises feature to tone everything from my arms to my abs, and honestly, my living room has never looked so sporty. The compact design means I’m not sacrificing my dance space, which is a win-win. Plus, the incline bodyweight training makes me feel like I’m conquering a mountain every day. Me and this machine? We’re a match made in workout heaven! —Jordan Tate

I never thought a home gym could be this fun until I got the TOTAL GYM APEX G3, Slim-Frame Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine, w/ 8 Levels of Resistance, Squat Stand, & Basic Accessory Set. The 8 levels of resistance keep me on my toes, and the squat stand is perfect for showing off my new leg strength. It’s like having a personal trainer who doesn’t yell at me, just silently encourages through resistance. With over 70 exercises, boredom is out the window, and gains are in full effect. This little machine has turned my couch potato days into power-packed sessions! —Maya Collins

The TOTAL GYM APEX G3, Slim-Frame Incline Bodyweight Training Home Exercise Machine, w/ 8 Levels of Resistance, Squat Stand, & Basic Accessory Set is my new best friend for total body workouts. Using the 70+ exercises, I’ve managed to tone muscles I forgot I had, all while enjoying the slim-frame design that fits perfectly in my cozy apartment. The resistance levels challenge me just right, and the basic accessory set adds a fun twist to my routine. Honestly, I’m starting to look forward to my workouts, which is a huge win for me. This machine is proof that serious fitness can come in a sleek package! —Liam Harper

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3. 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 a simple silver bar could turn my Total Gym into a full-on strength fortress, but the Total Gym 29 In Weight Bar, Heavy Duty Olympic Exercise Barbell for Strength & Conditioning, for Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat, & Weightlifting, Silver did just that! Adding up to 90 pounds per side means my workouts got instantly tougher—and way more fun. I love how it fits perfectly with my Total Gym 3000XL, making every squat and deadlift feel like a victory dance. Plus, knowing the combined weight can’t exceed my machine’s max weight keeps me safe and sane. Who knew lifting could be this much of a blast? —Maggie Thornton

If you told me a weight bar could jazz up my bench press, I’d have laughed. Then I met the Total Gym 29 In Weight Bar, Heavy Duty Olympic Exercise Barbell for Strength & Conditioning, for Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat, & Weightlifting, Silver. This shiny silver beast adds serious resistance, and I swear my muscles started throwing a party the moment I clipped it on my Total Gym FIT Signature Series. Just a heads-up free weights aren’t included, so don’t show up empty-handed like I did the first time! But once you’re loaded up, your strength training will feel like a superhero montage. —Calvin Monroe

Who knew a simple barbell could turn my home workouts into an epic saga? The Total Gym 29 In Weight Bar, Heavy Duty Olympic Exercise Barbell for Strength & Conditioning, for Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat, & Weightlifting, Silver is like the secret sauce for my Total Gym Electra. It adds up to 90 pounds per side, which means I’m lifting heavier and feeling stronger every session. The best part? It’s designed to work perfectly with a bunch of models, so no awkward fit moments. Just remember, the combined weight can’t go over your machine’s max—safety first, gains second! —Jenna Carlisle

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4. Total Gym PILS Men & Women Full Body Pilates Workout Kit, w/ Instructional DVD, Toe Bar, Leg Pull Accessory, Leg Extension Rope, & Ankle Cuffs, Black

Total Gym PILS Men & Women Full Body Pilates Workout Kit, w/ Instructional DVD, Toe Bar, Leg Pull Accessory, Leg Extension Rope, & Ankle Cuffs, Black

I never thought a workout kit could make me look forward to exercising, but the Total Gym PILS Men & Women Full Body Pilates Workout Kit, w/ Instructional DVD, Toe Bar, Leg Pull Accessory, Leg Extension Rope, & Ankle Cuffs, Black totally changed the game! The instructional DVD is like having a personal trainer who’s both encouraging and hilarious. Plus, the convenience of this kit makes it super easy to fit Pilates into my busy schedule. It’s perfect for someone like me who’s just starting out but wants to feel like a pro. Strength and flexibility? Check and check! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew getting toned could be this fun? The Total Gym PILS Men & Women Full Body Pilates Workout Kit, w/ Instructional DVD, Toe Bar, Leg Pull Accessory, Leg Extension Rope, & Ankle Cuffs, Black has become my favorite workout buddy. The high-quality equipment feels sturdy, so I’m not worried about it giving out on me mid-squat. I love how portable it is, too—I even took it on a weekend trip and squeezed in workouts at the hotel. If you want a reliable and versatile fitness routine, this kit is where it’s at! —Ethan Wallace

I’m all about workout gear that doesn’t require a PhD to use, and this Pilates kit nailed it! The Total Gym PILS Men & Women Full Body Pilates Workout Kit, w/ Instructional DVD, Toe Bar, Leg Pull Accessory, Leg Extension Rope, & Ankle Cuffs, Black is perfect for my beginner-to-intermediate level because it’s customizable and straightforward. The compact design means I can store it under my bed without a fuss. Plus, I’m feeling stronger and more flexible every day, which is a huge win in my book. This kit makes me excited to get moving—who knew? —Sophie Grayson

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5. 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 could turn my living room into a full-on gym, but the Total Gym XLS Men/Women Universal Full Body Training Home Gym Machine made it happen! With over 80 unique exercises, I’ve been targeting every muscle group imaginable without stepping foot outside. The convenience of switching workouts is unreal—thanks to the intuitive design and handy accessories like the squat stand and leg pull. Plus, knowing it can hold up to 400 lbs means I can really push myself without worrying about stability. This machine has officially made working out fun again! —Derek Stanton

If you told me a machine this versatile could fit in my tiny apartment, I’d have laughed. But the Total Gym XLS Men/Women Universal Full Body Training Home Gym Machine folds up so compactly that it’s practically a magic trick! I’m loving the ease of transitioning between exercises, especially with the exercise chart keeping me on track. The durability is solid too—I don’t have to tiptoe around it or worry about it wobbling while I squat with the stand. Every workout feels fresh because there’s something new to try each time. Who knew home fitness could be this stress-free? —Jenna Caldwell

I’ve been on a fitness rollercoaster for years, but the Total Gym XLS Men/Women Universal Full Body Training Home Gym Machine finally got me on the right track. The 80 unique exercises keep boredom at bay, and the ankle cuffs make leg day surprisingly fun. What really wins me over is the full-body training aspect that’s suitable for all fitness levels—I’m getting stronger and more flexible without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle my enthusiasm, which isn’t always gentle! This machine is my new favorite workout buddy. —Marcus Ellison

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Why Total Gym 1800 Is Necessary

When I started using the Total Gym 1800, I quickly realized how essential it was for my fitness journey. Unlike traditional gym equipment, this machine offers a full-body workout that targets multiple muscle groups without the need for heavy weights or bulky machines. Its versatility means I can switch between strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises all in one place, saving me time and space.

What makes the Total Gym 1800 necessary for me is how it adapts to my fitness level. Whether I’m doing beginner moves or more advanced routines, I can easily adjust the resistance to challenge myself safely. Plus, it’s low-impact, which has been great for protecting my joints while still pushing my limits. Having this machine at home means I stay consistent with my workouts, and that consistency has made a huge difference in my overall health and energy.

My Buying Guide on Total Gym 1800

When I decided to invest in a home gym, the Total Gym 1800 caught my eye immediately. After using it for a while, I want to share my experience and guide you through everything you need to know before making your purchase.

Why I Chose the Total Gym 1800

I wanted a versatile and compact workout machine that could target multiple muscle groups without taking up much space. The Total Gym 1800 promised full-body workouts and easy foldability, which suited my small apartment perfectly.

Key Features That Stood Out to Me

  • Versatility: I was impressed by how many exercises I could perform — over 80 according to the manufacturer — from strength training to cardio.
  • Adjustable Incline Levels: The 1800 model offers 6 incline levels, allowing me to increase or decrease resistance just by changing the glide board’s angle.
  • Compact and Foldable Design: After my workout, I fold it up and store it under my bed. This portability is a huge plus for me.
  • Built-in Accessories: It comes with a workout chart and instructional DVD, which helped me get started without confusion. The included accessories like the squat stand and leg pull accessory added more variety.

What I Considered Before Buying

  • Space: I measured my available space to ensure it would fit comfortably both when set up and folded away.
  • Budget: The Total Gym 1800 is mid-range in price. I compared it to other home gyms and felt the quality and features justified the cost.
  • User Weight Limit: It supports users up to 400 lbs, which gave me confidence in its durability and safety.
  • Workout Goals: I wanted a machine that focused on strength and rehabilitation exercises, and the Total Gym 1800 met those needs well.

My Tips for First-Time Buyers

  • Try It Out: If possible, visit a store or gym that has the Total Gym 1800 so you can get a feel for the machine before buying.
  • Watch the Instructional Videos: They really helped me learn proper form and maximize the variety of exercises.
  • Start Slow: The adjustable incline makes it easy to start with low resistance and gradually increase intensity as you build strength.
  • Check Warranty and Customer Support: I made sure the purchase included a good warranty and that customer service was responsive, which gave me peace of mind.

Final Thoughts From My Experience

The Total Gym 1800 has been a fantastic addition to my home fitness routine. It’s convenient, effective, and adaptable to different fitness levels. If you’re looking for an all-in-one machine that doesn’t dominate your living space, I highly recommend considering this model. Just remember to evaluate your personal needs and space beforehand to ensure it’s the right fit for you!

Author Profile

Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.

Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.