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Total Gym XLS vs TITAN X3 squat stand [Article, Video]

Written by Pascal Landshoeft | Sep 22, 2020 4:00:00 PM

Total Gym XLS vs TITAN X3 squat stand 

This is a comparison of the Total Gym XLS and the TITAN X3 squat stand. Follow the links for more details.

Overview and review of the X-3 Squat stand with pull up bar 

The TITAN X3 Squat stand will put you back about $490. TITAN is well known for their very good prices compared to their competition and will get you started on your home gym. This review was originally posted in “which Titan rack to buy for under $500

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Overview of the X3 squat stand 

 
The X3 is a squat stand which boasts 3x3 steel tubes. It is, therefore, a very sturdy squat stand compared to other 2x3 or 2x2 options. The X3 comes with Westside spacing in the lower part of the rack to allow for smaller increments on the bench press. The flat foot design saves you bolting it to the floor which makes it a very good option in some home gym scenarios. It also comes with spotter arms. The specifics and features of the squat stand are: 
 
 
  • 3" x 3" 11 gauge steel uprights
  • Westside hole pattern through bench zone
  • 2" hole spacing above and below.
  • 1,000 + lb capacity
  • Pair of UHMW lined X-3 JHooks included
  • Double-sided gusset plates 
  • Standard 1.25" Pull up bar included 
  • Mounted at your preferred height. 
  •  Pair of X-3 Spotter Arms included
  • Height: 92"
  • Width: 49"
  • Depth: 48" 
  • Product Weight: 203  lb
  • Finish: Black Power Coating
  • Floor Space: 16.3 sq ft (49" x 48")
 
This is as sturdy as they come as far as squat stands go. 
 

Pros of the X3 squat stand

 
As with all TITAN equipment, the first thing to note is the competitive price. You will have a challenge to find a good quality 3x3 squat stand for the same price. A squat stand also gives you the ability to drop weight easier than in a power rack. If you prefer the Olympic lifts over powerlifting this might be the better choice for you. A squat stand also saves space and can be easily transported. 
 

Cons of the X3 squat stand 

 
Especially for beginners, you have less protection. The spotter arms are fine and nice, but in practice, safety pins in a full rack are a lot more secure as you won’t miss them. The whole structure is also led likely to tip over if installed correctly. In addition, TITAN is known for inconsistencies on their finish. 
 

Alternatives to the X3 squat stand 

 
These are other options for the X3 squat stand
 
 
For almost the same amount of money, you can get a colored version of the T3 rack. While the tubes are only 2x3 you will get a full rack in the color of your choice. 
 
Another way to go is to save on the color to have more budget for different size options on the T3 and maybe even adding some plate holders. The T3 is available in a short and tall version to adjust the height. For depth, you can choose between 24” and 36”.
 
The T3 folding rack saves you about $100 on the X3 and can be installed in your garage. If you only train on the weekends or two days a week, this is a good option so that you can still use the garage or basement for your car/ miscellaneous rubbish you think is important ( I have that stuff in my attic). The savings can be put towards a barbell like the blues city or Atlas bar. 
 

Summary of the X3 squat stand 

 
A great option for anyone planning on a home gym for Olympic lifting or a gym that still has a corner left and does not j ow what to do with it. If you get the squat stand make sure you can store your plates somewhere separate. 
 

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.