Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Full disclosure: I was not able to buy this from Amazon as I didn't have the cash to spare, so had to buy it from another retailer where I have credit; this same review is at the other retailer's site, should they approve it. This machine is better than my basic Bowflex Power Pro hands down. With just 30 seconds between sets, it really gets the heart rate pumping much more than the same sets and timing using the Bowflex. I guess because the type of exercises is much more varied with this machine, such as rowing and even pull ups. And the 4 added resistance bands are a stroke of genius. I also use it to stretch my troublesome lower and upper back and left shoulder out by inclining fully and just kind of hanging for a few seconds. It really helps my back being able to stretch it out so easily I do have to mention that it is a louder than I thought it would be when gliding, but not enough to wake someone up. Also, you cannot disconnect the cable to do pull ups, etc, so you hear the handles or snap hooks hitting the metal base of the machine (I work out when I get home from work at night, so I just put a sweater over it so as not to wake up the family). I also work out during the day as well, each day a different body part, but with the added bonus of cardio and abs daily. The build is better than I expected, but do make sure all your bolts are tight. The eye bolts that hold the 2 pulleys almost came off on me before I noticed it. So I tightened them up accordingly and keep a close eye on them and all other connections. Also, I would upgrade the hand grips to Bowflex hand grips, which are much easier on hands than the hard plastic grips that come with this otherwise excellent machine. I have noticed a huge difference in my arms and legs, as well as my abs, back, and stamina. It truly is a total body workout with one machine. My brother is also using it and is very impressed as well. Years ago, I had the first generation Total Gym, but it broke after just a few months. I hope this Weider holds up, because other than the few minor items I mentioned above, it is really a great machine that will work you out more than you might want at times, but within a few hours or a day, you hear it calling your name and are ready to tackle another body part.