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Total Gym XLS vs Rogue R3 bolt together [Article, Video]

Written by Pascal Landshoeft | Jun 25, 2020 4:00:00 PM

Total Gym XLS vs Rogue R3 bolt together

This is a comparison between the Total Gym XLS and the Rogue R3 bolt together. Follow the links for more details.

Overview and review of the Rogue Bolt together R3 

 

The Rogue R3 bolt together rack comes in at $725 and is one of the mid-range options for under $1000 from Rogue. Learn more in this review which was originally published in the Article "Which Rack to buy from Rogue for under $1000".

 

What else to consider from Rogue

Overview of the R3

 
The R3 Rogue Bolt together rack is part of the Rogue Infinity series and comes in black. It is manufactured in Columbus, Ohio. This rack is special as it is delivered in more parts than the standard R3. This makes it easier to install in narrow settings and to transport.
 
The R3BT is 24'' or 30'' in length and 43'' wide. The height comes to 90.375''. The stell notes are made of 2x3'' 11 Gauge steel. The total footprint comes to 34'' or 40''x53''. The R3 weighs about 200LB. As part of the Infinity series, this rack is compatible with the accessories from this line. It ships with 4 band pegs and to safety pins. A Fat/Skinny pull up bar is also included.
 
This is a good variation on the standard R3 which is a little more pricey but gives you more options for the installation itself. If you need a versatile half rack this is the way to go.
 

Pros of the R3

 
This rack is ideal if you have to get it up narrow staircases. If you want to install your rack in an attic or your gym is somewhere up a lot of stairs.
 

Cons of the R3

 
The infinity series is part of the Rogue portfolio that probably will get less attention over the years. Rogue has the Monster, Monster Lite, Infinity, and Echo series. The most additions to the portfolio have been made in the MOnster and Monster lite bracket. So don't expect too many extras for this rack, if you choose to buy it and work from the options already available.
 

Alternatives to the R3

 
Alternatives to the R3BT are:
 
The R3 is the same rack which comes in bigger chunks. If you have loads of space to install it and do not have to bring it up narrow staircases, go with this option.
 
The RM4 Fortis rack costs only slightly more money but will make you part of the Monser family of Rogue. If you want to protect your investment long term you might want to spend the extra $200 to have access to more upgrades instead of the R3BT.
 
If you want to acquire a full rack instead of a half rack for roughly the same money, go for the RE4. The RE4 is part of the Rogue Echo series and will set you back $650. If you only want a rack and do not care too much about upgrading it in the future this is a very good alternative to the RE3BT.
 

Overview and review of the Total Gym XLS

This is an overview of the Total gym XLS and alternatives. This article has been originally published under "Which total gym to get". Follow the links for more details.

 

Total Gym XLS $799 - $2000

 
The total gym XLS is my recommendation for home use when you get a total gym. You can stay under $1000 and have a full gym at home. Especially older beginners can consider this option as it can be stored away, does not challenge the lower body too much and still keeps you fit. The specifics are:
 
  • FREE streaming workouts 
  • 6 Levels of Resistance
  • Over 80 Exercises on One Home Gym
  • 400lb User Weight Capacity
  • Arrives Fully Assembled
  • Lifetime Warranty on Frame, 6-Month Warranty on Parts

This will cover you for a long time to work out at home and improve your fitness to be healthy. 
 

Pros of the total gym XLS

 
 
The pro of the Total Gym XLS is the price point. This is the best value for money options from the total gym you can get for a home user. You only lose little on the exercises compared to the Total gym Fit while saving about $700. 
 

Cons of the total gym XLS

 
The total gym XLS has a very low warranty on parts. You will also get fewer increments in resistance compared to the total gym fit. If you are a heavy user or expect to train a lot to get stronger you might be better off with the Total gym fit
 

Alternatives of the total gym XLS

 
Alternatives to the Total Gym XLS are:
 
 
The Rogue Echo bike will be a good alternative if you want to save space and focus on cardio. compared to the total gym you will give up the option of doing any pulley exercises. 
 
The dealt CrossFit package will give a starter set for CrossFit with a few things to be desired. You will get bumper plates, a bar, rings, and a medicine ball. You might want to add some kettlebells for more variety.
 
A Y2 yoke is a great option if you want to build a home gym quick and easy without having to bolt anything to the ground. You will not have the safety options of a rack or squat stand and trade-off for plate storage and extra exercise options as you can use the Yoke for yoke carries and sled exercises.