Total Gym APEX G5 Review: Complete Guide to This All-in-One Home Workout Machine
Want a home gym that works your whole body in just 20 minutes? The Total Gym APEX G5 might be your answer.
This machine uses your body weight and gravity for resistance. It offers over 80 exercises on a single frame.
Is it as good as the hype says? We put the APEX G5 to the test. We checked its build quality, versatility, and real results.
This model holds up to 375 lbs. It stays sturdy without feeling bulky in your space.
Beginners and fitness pros both find value here. The adjustable incline lets you control your own intensity.
Want to know if this machine deserves a spot in your home? Keep reading. We cover every pro, every con, and everything in between.
In a Nutshell
Here is the quick rundown on the Total Gym APEX G5:
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Sturdy build: The frame feels strong and stable during workouts. It supports smooth, controlled movements for every exercise.
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Full body routine: You get access to 80+ exercises on one machine. This covers arms, legs, core, and back without extra equipment.
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Gentle on joints: The sliding design offers a low impact workout. This makes it a smart pick for people with joint pain or injuries.
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Muscle tone, not bulk: This machine helps you tone and maintain muscle. It won’t help you build serious muscle mass.
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No cardio boost: The APEX G5 skips cardio training. You will need another tool for heart rate workouts.
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Short warranty: The one year warranty is shorter than some competitors offer. Keep this in mind for long term support.
Overall, this machine scores 4.4 out of 5 stars. Users rate it highly for its flexible, joint friendly design and solid construction.
Build Quality and Materials
The Total Gym APEX G5 uses a steel frame that feels solid and stable during workouts. The machine weighs 53 lbs, which makes it lighter than some competitors. This frame supports up to 375 lbs of user weight, so it works for most people.
The sliding carriage glides smoothly along the rails. This design reduces stress on your joints while you exercise. The materials used feel durable enough for regular home gym use. You won’t hear creaking or wobbling during your sessions.
All the attachments come included with your purchase. The machine comes with a leg press attachment, cable handles, and a squat stand. These pieces feel sturdy and connect easily to the main frame. The attachments store neatly when you’re done exercising.
The incline adjustment system works without any complicated tools. You simply move the pin to change resistance levels. This simple design means fewer parts can break over time. The adjustment mechanism stays reliable through hundreds of workouts.
The overall construction reflects solid engineering for a home fitness machine. The materials don’t feel cheap or flimsy. You can tell the company invested in quality components that last. The frame geometry keeps everything aligned and stable.
One thing to note: the warranty lasts just one year. This is shorter than what you’ll find with some other brands. A longer warranty would give you more peace of mind. Still, the build quality suggests the machine should last well beyond the warranty period.
The APEX G5 feels like a well made machine that won’t let you down. The steel construction and included attachments show attention to detail. You get a machine that feels professional grade, not like a budget fitness toy. The materials support daily use without complaints.
Whether you’re setting up a home gym for the first time or adding to existing equipment, this machine’s build quality stands out. The frame remains stable whether you weigh 150 lbs or 375 lbs. The attachments hold up to regular use without degrading.
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Exercise Variety and Workout Capability
The APEX G5 opens up a wide range of movement options with 80+ exercises available on a single machine. This variety means you can target different muscle groups without buying multiple pieces of equipment. The sliding carriage system lets you work your chest, back, shoulders, arms, and legs all from one position.
Upper body work stands out as a real strength here. Many users report effective results in just 20 minutes for chest presses, rows, and shoulder movements. The adjustable incline feature changes how your body weight works against gravity, creating different resistance levels for each exercise.
Lower body options exist too, though they feel less comprehensive than upper body work. You can perform leg presses and some isolation movements, but the machine doesn’t offer the same depth for leg training that dedicated leg equipment provides.
The low impact nature of this machine makes it ideal for people who want to work out without stressing their joints. Every movement involves smooth, controlled sliding rather than sudden impacts. This design appeals to older adults and anyone recovering from injury.
One important limitation: this machine won’t deliver cardio benefits. The APEX G5 focuses entirely on strength and muscle tone work. If you need heart rate elevation and cardiovascular training, you’ll need separate equipment like a treadmill or rowing machine.
The exercise variety works well for all fitness levels. Beginners can start with lighter resistance by adjusting the incline slightly, while experienced exercisers can increase the angle for more challenging workouts. The same exercise becomes harder or easier based on your body position and incline setting.
The included attachments expand your options even further. These accessories let you perform different grips and angles for specific muscle targeting. You won’t feel limited by a single handle or fixed position.
Overall, the APEX G5 delivers solid exercise variety for full body workouts. It excels at upper body training and works well for muscle maintenance and toning. The low impact approach makes it accessible, though serious muscle builders and cardio enthusiasts may want additional equipment alongside it.
Weight Capacity and User Suitability
The Total Gym APEX G5 supports users up to 375 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of body types. This weight capacity sits comfortably in the mid-range for home gym equipment. Most household users will find this limit more than adequate for their fitness goals.
The machine works well for beginners just starting their fitness journey. New users appreciate the simple setup and intuitive exercise movements. You don’t need prior gym experience to use this equipment effectively.
Intermediate fitness enthusiasts also benefit from the APEX G5. These users can increase resistance by adjusting the incline angle. The sliding carriage system lets you control workout intensity without adding weights.
Advanced users may find limitations here. The machine focuses on muscle tone and maintenance rather than significant muscle growth. If your goal involves building substantial mass, you might outgrow this equipment over time.
The low impact design makes this machine ideal for people with joint concerns. Your knees, hips, and shoulders experience minimal stress during workouts. This feature appeals to older adults and those recovering from injuries.
People seeking quick workout sessions appreciate the APEX G5. You can complete effective upper body work in about twenty minutes. The machine lets busy individuals fit exercise into tight schedules.
Those wanting comprehensive lower body training may feel disappointed. The machine offers lower body options, but they feel less developed than upper body exercises. Upper body work remains the real strength of this equipment.
The 53 pound frame presents an important consideration. Lighter users find this manageable for repositioning and storage. Larger individuals might need assistance moving the machine around your home.
Athletes focused on cardio benefits should look elsewhere. The APEX G5 doesn’t provide cardiovascular training. You’ll need additional equipment if heart health improvement matters to you.
Overall, this machine suits people wanting low impact exercise with excellent upper body options. It works best for users under 375 pounds seeking flexibility and joint friendly workouts. The APEX G5 becomes less ideal if you need cardio training or significant muscle building capacity.
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The Bowflex Max Trainer offers cardio and strength training in one compact machine. You get a low-impact workout that’s easy on your joints while building muscle. The machine uses resistance technology to adjust automatically as you exercise.
This option works well if you want quick, efficient sessions. Most users complete workouts in 30 minutes or less. The display shows your heart rate, calories burned, and workout time clearly. Setup takes minimal effort, and the footprint stays small in your home.
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Nautilus focuses on full-body strength training with cable-based resistance. The machine includes multiple stations for targeting different muscle groups. You can work your chest, back, legs, and arms without switching equipment.
The design emphasizes safety and proper form. Guide rails and padded seats keep your body aligned during exercises. The resistance adjusts smoothly between levels, so beginners and experienced users both benefit. Storage is straightforward since everything connects to one central frame.
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Weider Home Gym delivers versatile strength training with a simple setup process. The machine features multiple weight stacks and exercise stations. You can perform dozens of movements targeting all major muscle groups.
This option appeals to users who want variety in their workouts. The cable system moves smoothly, and the weight increments allow gradual progression. Assembly requires basic tools and takes a few hours. The overall design balances functionality with reasonable space requirements for home use.
Resistance System and Adjustability
The resistance system on the APEX G5 works through an incline adjustment mechanism. You tilt the machine to increase or decrease how much weight you’re lifting. This simple approach means fewer moving parts and less maintenance overall.
The incline range gives you flexibility in your workouts. You can start light and gradually increase the angle as you get stronger. The system responds smoothly without jerky movements or resistance changes.
Adjustability happens quickly and easily. You don’t need special tools or complicated procedures to change your resistance level. This matters because it keeps your workout flowing. You can switch between exercises without spending time on setup.
The sliding carriage moves along the rails with consistent tension throughout each movement. This creates a smooth, controlled feeling during exercises. The resistance feels natural rather than mechanical or forced.
One key advantage: the resistance adapts to your body position. As you move through an exercise, the angle of the machine creates variable resistance. Your muscles work harder at certain points in the movement, which can improve strength gains.
The system works well for progressive training. You start with a lower incline and gradually increase it as your fitness improves. This progression happens naturally without needing additional weights or equipment changes.
The low impact nature of this resistance style protects your joints. Unlike free weights or machines with heavy plates, the APEX G5 creates smooth, continuous resistance. This makes it ideal if you have joint concerns or want to avoid sudden stress.
The resistance system supports the full range of exercises available on the machine. Upper body work feels particularly strong with this setup. You can perform pushing, pulling, and isolation movements with consistent tension.
The incline adjustment also works for different fitness levels. Beginners can use lower angles to build foundational strength. More experienced users can increase the angle for greater challenge. This versatility means the machine grows with your fitness journey.
The resistance system keeps workouts simple and effective. You focus on your movement quality rather than managing complicated equipment. This simplicity actually helps you maintain better form throughout your sessions.
Space and Portability Considerations
The Total Gym APEX G5 weighs just 53 pounds. This lightweight frame makes it genuinely portable compared to many other home gym machines.
You can move this machine from room to room without major effort. Most people can relocate it solo or with minimal help. The compact footprint means it fits into apartments, spare bedrooms, or home offices without dominating the space.
Storage becomes realistic with the APEX G5. Unlike larger machines that demand permanent floor real estate, this one tucks away more easily. You won’t need a dedicated gym room to own this equipment. Small living situations benefit from this design choice.
The folding capability adds another layer of convenience. When not in use, you can collapse the machine to reduce its footprint further. This feature matters if you share your living space or want flexibility in how you use your room.
Setup takes minimal time. You don’t need professional installation or complex assembly procedures. Most users get the APEX G5 ready within an hour. The straightforward design keeps complications away.
Transportation to different locations works smoothly. Whether you want to use it at a second home or move it during a house relocation, the lighter weight helps. You won’t face the logistics nightmare that heavier machines create.
One consideration: the 53 pound frame means some taller or larger users might find it feels slightly compact during workouts. The machine’s smaller profile works brilliantly for space conscious buyers but may feel snug for certain body types. Test it out if possible before committing.
The portability advantage extends to travel. Fitness enthusiasts who move frequently appreciate having a machine that doesn’t require hiring movers or special equipment transport. This machine travels with you without becoming a burden.
Overall, space efficiency and portability stand out as genuine strengths of the APEX G5. You get a full exercise machine without sacrificing your living space or flexibility. For people in apartments, small homes, or anyone who values mobility, this machine delivers on both fronts.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Handles up to 375 pounds with a sturdy frame that lasts
- Delivers effective upper body workouts in just 20 minutes
- Works for everyone from beginners to advanced users seeking maintenance
- Offers 80+ exercises on a single machine with quick resistance adjustments
- Protects your joints with low impact movements throughout each session
Cons
- Won’t build significant muscle mass or help you get visibly ripped
- Provides no cardiovascular benefits during your workout
- The 53 pound frame may feel compact for taller or larger users
- Comes with only a one year warranty compared to longer coverage from competitors
Who Should Buy It
The Total Gym APEX G5 fits best with specific fitness goals and user types. If you want low-impact exercise that protects your joints, this machine delivers. People recovering from injuries or managing joint concerns find real value here.
Beginners love this machine. The 80+ exercises feel accessible, and you adjust resistance by changing the incline angle. No complicated settings confuse you. You learn quickly and start seeing results in muscle tone and definition.
Fitness enthusiasts seeking maintenance workouts should consider this option. You don’t need to build massive muscle mass. You want to keep what you have and stay active. The APEX G5 handles this perfectly. Twenty-minute upper body sessions work well for busy schedules.
Older adults and those seeking flexibility in their routines find this machine helpful. The low-impact nature means less stress on your body. The adjustable resistance lets you control intensity. You progress at your own pace without pressure.
The machine works for people with limited space. At 53 pounds, you move it easily between rooms. The folding design means storage takes minimal effort. Apartment dwellers and those with small home gyms benefit greatly.
However, certain users should look elsewhere. If building significant muscle mass matters to you, skip this machine. The resistance system won’t get you visibly ripped or create the gains you seek. Serious bodybuilders need heavier free weights or cable machines.
Athletes needing cardiovascular training should explore other options. The APEX G5 provides zero cardio benefits. Your heart rate won’t elevate enough for aerobic conditioning. You need a treadmill, bike, or rowing machine for that.
Taller or larger users might feel the 53-pound frame feels compact during workouts. You may want something with more surface area. Test it first if you’re over 6 feet tall or prefer more space.
The one-year warranty concerns some buyers. If equipment durability and long-term protection matter to you, competitors offer longer coverage. Check what matters most for your peace of mind and long-term commitment to home fitness.
Final Verdict
The Total Gym APEX G5 earns a strong 4.4 out of 5 stars rating, with an impressive 87% score on FitRated. These numbers reflect what real users experience daily with this machine.
This home gym equipment delivers consistent results for people who want a simple, effective workout system. The design focuses on function over flashy extras.
Fitness experts often praise how this machine blends simplicity with real results. You get a machine that does what it promises without unnecessary complications.
If you want a single tool to handle strength maintenance and joint friendly workouts, this machine fits that need well. It serves as a solid foundation for consistent exercise habits.
Think about your specific goals before buying. Serious muscle building or intense cardio training aren’t this machine’s strong points.
For those needs, you might explore other models in the Total Gym lineup. Each option offers different features suited to different training styles.
The APEX G5 shines brightest for people who value consistency over intensity. It works well for anyone building sustainable fitness habits that last for years.
Home workout enthusiasts appreciate how this machine adapts to different fitness levels within one household. Family members at different stages can all use it effectively.
The straightforward design means less time figuring out settings and more time actually exercising. This simplicity becomes a real advantage for busy people.
Overall, the Total Gym APEX G5 delivers on its core promise. It gives you a dependable way to stay active and maintain muscle tone.
Choose this machine if you want reliable, low impact workouts that fit into a packed schedule. Skip it if your main goal involves heavy muscle gain or cardio training.
For most everyday users seeking consistent, joint friendly exercise, this machine remains a smart choice worth serious consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Total Gym APEX G5 help me build muscle?
The APEX G5 works well for muscle tone and maintenance. It won’t help you build significant muscle mass or get visibly ripped. If your goal is strength building, this machine may not deliver the results you want.
This machine shines for people who already have muscle and want to keep it. It’s perfect for maintenance workouts and staying active.
Is this machine good for cardio workouts?
No. The Total Gym APEX G5 provides no cardiovascular benefits. It focuses on strength and flexibility work only.
If you need cardio training, you should look at other equipment. You might combine this machine with running, cycling, or another cardio option.
How long does a typical workout take?
You can complete effective upper body workouts in just 20 minutes. This makes it great for busy people who have limited time.
The machine lets you move quickly between the 80+ exercises. You adjust resistance in seconds without changing equipment.
Who should buy this machine and who should skip it?
Buy this if you want low impact exercise, have limited space, need flexibility in your routine, or seek maintenance workouts. Beginners and older adults love this option.
Skip this if you need significant muscle growth, want cardio benefits, are very tall or large (the 53 lb frame may feel compact), or prefer longer warranties than one year.
How many exercises does it include?
The APEX G5 offers 80+ exercises on a single machine. Multiple attachments come included. You get variety without needing multiple pieces of equipment.
DK is a passionate wellness advocate and product reviewer dedicated to helping readers make informed decisions about health-enhancing tools and devices. With a keen eye for quality and functionality, DK provides honest, thorough reviews and comparisons to support your journey toward better living.
