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Total Gym XLS vs Rogue R3 rack [Article, Video]

Written by Pascal Landshoeft | Jun 13, 2020 4:00:00 PM

Total Gym XLS vs Rogue R3 rack

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

Rogue R3 power rack 

 

The Rogue RM4 fortis rack comes in at $695 and is one of the low-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 Rogue R3 rack has been inspired by the model that Louie Simmons used in Columbus, Ohio to build some of the best powerlifters in the world. It ships from and is built in the US. This rack is a solid option for home warriors and gym facilities alike. 
 
The R3 weighs in at 200LB and comes in different heights, The standard height is 90'' while the shorts version comes in at 84''. the steel notes are made 2x3'' 11 Gauge Steel. The R3 is part of the Rogue Infinity series and compatible with accessories and parts from the same line. It ships with J cups, band pegs, pin/pipe safeties and a Fat/Skinny pull up bar. It also provides Westside hole spacing to you in the middle of the rack.
 
This is a solid rack from an older product line of Rogue which you can use for building out your gym. Compared to the MOnster and Monster lite series you will save somewhere between $400 to $1000 depending on your build. 
 

Pros of the R3

 
This is a good value for money option from Rogue to start your gym or built a powerlifting station if you do not have one yet. It is also lighter and smaller than most other racks from the Rogue portfolio and will serve you well.
 

Cons of the R3

 
Haf racks can sometimes be a little crammed, especially when you also want to store your plates on them. Consider either getting a bigger rack or taking care of your plate storage somewhere at the sides of the rack itself. If you factor in plate storage you might as well bump up the budget for the rack. 
 

Alternatives to the R3

 
Alternatives to the R3 power rack are
 
 
The R3BT is the same rack but will be delivered in smaller chunks. This makes it easier to carry the rack to its destination, especially if it is up windy staircases. Apart from this, there are no differences between the two models.
 
The RE4 is a full rack from the Echo series. If you would like to get more rack space for roughly the same price, this is the one to go for. Be aware that the Echo and Infinity series are at the lower part of the Rogue food chain and do not get as many updates and upgrades as their bigger brothers from the Monster and Monster lite series. 
 
Te RML3WC is a good option for garage gyms in which you still want to get your cars in. They can be folded to the wall and therefore save space. The only downside is that you will be very close to the wall and have to bolt it in there. 
 
 
 

Overview and review of the Total Gym XLS [Article, Video]

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.