Alternatives to Total Gym

Home gyms can be convenient and versatile exercise tools. Their design and function makes them a desired product for many. They can also be cost prohibitive, impractical for travel and limited by their design. Fortunately, the exercises and benefits of home gyms can be emulated with little or no equipment.

Do It Yourself Gym

A major appeal of products like the Total Gym is having resistance without free weights. With research and planning, its function can be replicated by resistance bands and tubes. The only caveat being that, in addition to obtaining medical clearance and instruction, it's important to continuously monitor the wear of bands or tubes. Promptly replace any worn equipment.

Calisthenics

Body-weight exercises can never be underestimated. Complete and adaptable fitness programs can be created from a base of exercises such as squats, lunges, pushups, pullups, jumping jacks and planks. All that's required are proper forms and techniques, plus a space to exercise.

Getting Benched is Good

A mundane and simplistic bench can rival the benefits of a complex gym. It doesn't matter whether it's a park bench, an Olympic weight bench or work bench. As long as it safely supports body weight, many exercises can be performed on the bench. The possibilities are practically unlimited.