don't forget if the company dissappears, you'll end up with a machine with locked features because some are only available with a subscription. This is the worst business practice I'm surprised is legal tbh.
Bought my Tonal 3 years ago. I recommend it. When I first got it and did the advanced programs, I got unsolicited comments about how fit I looked for being in my mid to late forties. Lately, I am lazy and do lighter programs and basically you reap what you sow. But at least it keeps me from being totally sedentary. That was my problem with being a , "I just need a bench, dumbells and squat rack guy" when you missed a few weeks it was tougher to get back into for me and so I delayed even longer. With Tonal, I know I have option to just keep me from being sedentary when I am not quite feeling it. Plus the programs give you really balanced workouts which I need because I will neglect body parts I dont feel like working out.
I super appreciate your videos!!! I ended up going with a Tempo and have been using it just about every day since October. I will say, I don’t have the pro package and even still there’s so much offered in a variety of classes, the live classes are amazing but their customer service is phenomenal!! The service & the community alone are the reasons why I bought and have no regrets with my tempo. Videos like this are so helpful!
I did the same thing. I was curious about Tonal but wasn’t sold by it fully. I ended up purchasing the Tempo Pro pack (awaiting shipping time now). I like the whole concept of it, the future that it’s going in and the options that are available. I got a used Tempo Move and have been using that and I am definitely happy with my choice.
also, forgot to mention one downside of the MaxPro... it doesn't offer any eccentric loading which means it has more limited application for strength training.
Honestly none of these even compare to Tonal...and Tonal is just an oversized tablet with 2 arms that hangs on your wall at all times and has a 3 year warranty that doesn't cover anything. Smart gyms are just going to be a niche market for those who want to feel more rich than they probably are and those who are tech nerds and think a "smart" function makes every existing item better. They usually have other expensive and useless crap such as a peloton bike so you can bicycle watching the wall instead of nature and people or a fitnesstracker that tracks their calories and is only 20% off.
These smart gyms have a sleek design. However, the reason I'm not buying any of them is because where are these companies going to be in 10-20 years? After the warranty is over, can someone fix these machines, whether it's a software, mechanical, or hardware issue? Do they provide software updates periodically?
Thanks for your run down in this very competitive space. As a tonal user for the past year I am biased but it is the best purchase I have ever made for fitness. I use it consistently and I’m in the best shape of my life.
as a person who lives in Europe, in my opinion it costs a lot, and even if you don't go to the gym it's still very difficult to amortize the cost over the years
I don't have a problem with the price, but with the needed subscription to unlock features that should be already unlocked with the initial cost. Nevertheless their business practices are shady af, I'm surprised this is a legal practice. I'm sure many are doing it but given they fired all their fitness instructors and their legal problems it won't be long until they go under if they are not already there.
Just got the speedience gym monster and I'm really happy with it! Did a bunch of workouts already, super easy to use and doesn't take up much space at all.
I've been watching Tonal since 2020 but kept waiting to see what was going on with them but had an uneasy feeling about them. I've been watching all the emails announcing price updates and still resisted. I've searched for posts from owners with issues and how support has handled them. Ultimately, while it still looks like an amazing machine and I still want one, I'm passing because I just don't trust them. I really appreciate your videos.
I am going with Speediance. By far the best. I just sold my Max Pro because it does not offer eccentric resistance at all...none and it is not even offered at any cost. It does not belong in this group.
Max pro has a place, but yeah, it’s not a full alternative as these are. Size, portability, and price weigh heavily in its favor as a supplemental piece of equipment.
@@balboa0621 The Handy Gym is portable like the max pro but one can get a much better workout with it. I replaced my max pro with the Handy Gym and not looking back. The Handy Gym is just about the most cool workout product out there at this time.
How are you getting on with Speediance? from the features that have been described in the video it seems very convenient especially for the fact that even if you don't have a subscription you can still do what you want, the workout you want
I have had Tonal going on 2 years. My subscription was pre-paid for 3 years. It’s the best home fitness equipment I’ve ever owned. I sold my cumbersome, chunky Tempo to buy Tonal. That said, with machines like Forme and OxeFit out, I suggest people look at competing options that didn’t exist when I bought Tonal.
So obnoxious....I just want the technology/equipment without all the junk. I don't need a giant touchscreen. I don't need smart features or a subscription to programs, etc. I literally just want a wall mount cable machine.......that's compact and isn't throwing weight plates around. These are awesome....I don't need all the junk attached to them with subscriptions and programs and smart crap.
I have the space for an actual rack, barbells, dumbbells, and an Inspire M3 home gym, but if I were constrained, I’d get a functional trainer like a Cybex or an Inspire FTX and an adjustable bench. If I were pressed for cash I’d get a bow flex (had before) since they fold up, are very cost effective, especially if bough used, and fold up to save space, depending on the model.
Speediance really looks like Tonal "Lite". Kinda wonder if this will make Tonal develop an entry model of sorts. At any rate, I'm a Tonal user that bought it in early 2019. Wife and I both love it, no regrets unless they go under and I'm stuck with a "brick" in the wall. I really thought Peloton would buy them but Peloton has been negative cash flow post pandemic. They are barely floating.
If you’re really determined, you can get jacked for CHEAP with just calisthenics, even more so when you throw in rings or a weighted vest. The only potential downsides are sometimes poor/slow progressions & a lack of variety of movements which can cause injury, boredom, and sub optimal rep ranges. When I can’t hit the gym or playground, I got in my bedroom some Olympic weights, a Kensui vest, yoga blocks, farmer walk straps (loop through the weights), and Walmart plastic bags filled with water bottles for dumbbells. My bench is 285lb and can EZ bar preacher curl 100lb so I think im doing ok.
Vitruvian all the way.... 440 lbs and the only one that I think has 100% eccentric mode (correct me if I'm wrong). The lack of screen is an advantage... you can place any type of screen you want anywhere - much more versatile. How are you going to see the screen when you're facing down / up or away from the screen? You can put your phone / tablet / tv anywhere you want and even have 2 screens as you mirror from your phone to tv.
So cool, thanks for this video! Vitruvian and Tempo are not really the same form factor, thus fewer exercises... There's also the Wolfmate M2 on pre-order. I've seen in a showroom in Montreal, it was amazing.
I just found a used Tonal for $2,400 on facebook marketplace. Even used the Tonal is built like a tank, I’ve had no issues. My thought is there is a good chance if I end up wanting to go a different direction, I can sell it for what I paid. Anyway that’s my recommendation try and find one used there is always someone out there that buys exercise equipment with the best intentions but end up not using it and selling it.
Ya I agree with you, it’s one of the few I never tried and was hoping to get a lower priced option in, but didn’t know initially that it doesn’t provide eccentric resistance. I took it off the list for the written version here connectthewatts.com/2023/01/24/tonal-alternatives/
Another Tonal user. It's unlike anything I've used. Vitruvian and Tempo are out for me I could easily just replace those with free weights so really unless they offer the pulling cable machine exercises for back and shoulders it has very little benefit over what I have in my basement. Oxefit would be my second choice vs Tonal. Though Speediance seems ok but I'm not confident that they can compete long term. The Tonal is fantastic and so is the support. The competition is good though hopefully once Tonal get's stable the prices come down. My insurance paid for some of Tonal and covers the membership so the price isn't really an issue for us.
@@cameronchow7183 Blue Cross Blue shield's activefit pays $20 per month per person to work out 12times per month. The $1000 toward the price was a Prudential wellness program. There are a lot of health plans that pay for you to work out and get fit you just have to ask yours.
Thanks so much for this video. i am not sure which to go with but know I dont want to purchase somethig that depends soley on a monthly membership that keeps rising.
Hate that the tonal raised their monthly price, although they did just add form check from your phone. And what I hate the most is the bricking of the tracking without a subscription. They really should offer that for cheaper, like $20 a month for people who don’t want the classes. However, the only thing on your list that comes close to the tonal is the home gym. If you have the room and know how you can build quite the home gym for the price of these things. But the Tonal is way better than everything else you listed. And worth the extra money.
I had Tonal since their beginning.. There is alot of pros and cons as you mentioned.. Subscription is really bad.. Not sure why Tonal can't just offer you smart feature without coaching for less subscription fee. I just use it with Subscription and have been doing it for more than 1 year. Its still the best space saving system out there. If I did have space, definitely would get the rack, free weights so much more effective in terms of load on your body. The 2nd product, only having weight controlled by APP, is a deal breaker for me... it will drive me nuts to have to use my phone to adjust weight everytime. 😅
I have worked out very consistently on Tonal for a year and it is amazing. I think it’s like an iPhone versus a Samsung. You can list all the features of both and the Samsung is a better deal on paper, but the iPhone is the iPhone. You get the same feeling when you own a Tonal. That said, I am disappointed with the subscription increase. I do think Tempo seems more customer friendly but damn the Tonal is awesome.
Fellow Tonal owner here who owned a Tempo. Tonal is much better and safer to me. I sold Tempo due to space but also changing out weight plates for small muscle groups. It’s time consuming.
I was thinking about getting a tonal but the only reason I didn't is just because the subscription is both so expensive, AND you lose so much functionality without it. Just isn't worth it to me to potentially own glorified wall art in case they go out of business, and I am not even sure if I could reasonably afford that pricey subscription with my income.
Speediance has said live classes are coming this year. I have a Speediance and a MAXPRO. I love both systems. MAXPRO absolutely belongs on this list. Especially since my broke my arm and for some exercises my wrist hurts. But I can do those exercises on the MAXPRO and go pretty heavy for me. I can feel a pump. The Speediance is really good too. Just some off translation, a few glitches that can be updated with software. Plus more content and it will be great too.
I'm actually considering the MaxPro or Speediance. We have a newborn in the house and I'm a bit hesitant at having some free weights hanging on the walls with the kiddo when he starts to hit the single digit years. Also, it's easier to make time to exercise when you're at home rather than having to drive to our gym (which sucks, because we had a great membership at a boat house where we could also do whitewater rafting and such, c'est la vie...). I like the simplicity of the MaxPro and the weight limit, but really don't want to put any holes in our walls as we may buy/build another house later and I would prefer to "pack it away" when not in use. However, the Speediance classes look like they'd be great, but obviously more expensive. How do you like each one and do you prefer one over the other? Cost isn't much of an issue here, but I have zero faith in Tonal (even at the beginning when it was clear they were going for subscription based revenue model and I knew that wasn't going to last post-pandemic) which is why I'm not even considering them. The Vitruvian is very close second, but I don't think we'll ever need 440lbs of resistance!
@@ryanshannon6963 I like both. I like athe more modes of the Speediance but the Maxpro is more portable. Just know the Maxpro doesn't have eccentric resistance.
The video is great, but how many have you actually used? How reliable are they long term? The market is exploding in this area and eventually will contract as happens in most industries. No doubt Tonal is slick, but very expensive and what happens if they crash? The industry is relatively immature at this point and making a choice is tough. Very concerned abut the Foxcom issue. Hmmm.
I bought my tonal when it was a grand less. They are getting ridiculous with their pricing but hey.... the market is commanding it since there's no great competition yet.
The max pro seems like the best deal until you use it and find it doesn't do eccentric. So there is resistance when you pull, but not on the way back, so it misses the most effective portion of the lift. Tonal is still the best of these machines, for even pro bodybuilders and anyone except pro powerbuilders (as the 200lb can feel like 300lb but that is still lacking for a pro powerlifter since they use lower rep ranges). It covers all the angles which some of the other machines do, and the weight modes make it more efficient than the PRX. I don't use my PRX much anymore. Speedience looks like a great compromises and the best value though
The problem with Tonal is that they do not offer an extended warranty! Soooo... after 2 years should anything happen you are out of luck. Also, the whole warranty issue with second-hand ownership and self-installation is bullshit. The customer service interactions that I have had with them encouraged me to RUN away from any further purchase consideration.
I wish someone made stuff like this without the expectation of subscriptions. I just want the equipment and the tracking. I don’t need some personal trainer on a video.
Currently speediance is offering a free lifetime membership and Vitruvian has no subscription fees for life if you pay an extra $990. Both look good compared to Tonal which requires a $720 yearly membership
You forgot one HUGE point in all this. Reliably! Who's to say these smart home gyms will be around 10 years to do updates and I doubt those cables will last. PRX for the win that it will easily last 30 years or more plus you just buy weights
I have question i have been using the iso max machine for 3 months not really i like it but i was interested and have been watching it for year or i was msybe intetested vitruvian what do think might be better i know vitruvian is alot more money
Tonal is amazing, totally worth the money IMO. Yeah it is kind of expensive, but if you can afford it, do it. Best investment in my health I have ever made.
Seems interesting but haven’t heard from anyone that has been able to use one. Similar pricing to Tonal as well. I’m also hoping to try out the FORME Lift soon which is also comparable to Tonal in both function and price.
True! I had forgotten about the Forme Lift! OxeFit has a showroom not too far from me. Less than an hour away at Jupiter, FL. I’ve been meaning to go check it out
Know anyone that’s tried this? It looks like it’s only been out a few months. I ordered the Tonal a few weeks ago and then canceled because of fear of instability and the gear shop being down. Where I would install the unit I would need their mount covers and they couldn’t commit when I could get them. I’ve been tempted with Tempo but really want the wall mount and less gear around the house.
You cant buy those smart machines, you only rent them. 6647$/36 month = 185$ per month. And those things will not last more then 5 years, at least they will be morally outdated. Traditional free wights you can use free and forever, and you can sell them a year or 20 years from now and get back at least some 20% to 40% of your purchase price. PRX 3352$/120 month (10 years) = 28$/per month. If you use it for 20 years, then it is 14$/month. And buy some program to use on your phone or ipad, if you need one.
Found this vid after finding the AliExpress Tonal clone (Asita Station). No reviews, coverage, or even impressions of the Asita online... which makes me morbidly curious about it. Supposedly its Tonal with all of the hardware and features but none of the subscription.
Thanks for the video. I would prefer if you compared hardware costs and subscription fees separately so it provides an apples to apples comparison. Also what if some of these other companies go out of business in 4 years. Lastly I think you should only offer wall mounted units that offer classes as comparable. There's a reason ppl are spending the extra money to buy those vs traditional dumbells units etc.
Noted! Though the reason I combine is because the subscription for most connected fitness is part of the actually price. Take WHOOP for example... the cost is $0. But requires a subscription to use. So it wouldn't make since to separate the "hardware costs" from the "subscription costs", especially given the hardware costs are often manipulated to be lower when a subscription is needed
I'm dumping my membership. I will just do a workout created for me. Basic moves. They dumped all the original coaches and the Facebook community manager. I feel they will eventually fail.
wow, Tonal cut your ACCESS by like 90% Holy Shit.....Thats MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR specially at $60 month WTF....Was going to get a Tonal until I just saw your video, definitely NOT NOW....good Video man...
You missed the Squadz Apollo board (motion space) at $1500 free app to use...I haven't tried it yet but it seems great on paper the only thing is that the app isn't as good as the others...a review on that one would be great✌️
I don’t think any are a good bang for your buck unless you have money to burn. You could join a big name gym for let’s say 40 a month and it would still only come out to over 400 a year. And you get way more functionality
I don't get why so many people are keen to stare at a screen while working out. Training/Exercising should be a chance to get unplugged and turn off the brain.
How about calculating in the time and energy and annoyance to prepare yourself and to drive to the gym and back home? Just having to get somewhat presentable and getting into a car might be enough deterrent to stop someone from even going to the gym. With a gym at home, you can basically just jump on it and start working out and not have to worry about if you are "ok" for being in the public eye. That has a lot of value. Though, the monthly charges they are asking for is still exuberant. I wholeheartedly agree with that.
I so badly wish there was something like Tonal or Speediance that didn't require the user interface. Just give me something to change the resistance, don't charge me an arm and a leg, and leave me alone: I already know what I'm doing.
Vitruvian+ is potentially the answer here. Especially since they do offer a "lifetime membership" option so you don't have to worry about paying forever to keep using everything and get features upgrades
I found a nordic track pt3... $75. Same idea as tonal as far as cable based with moving arms. Loads of resistance for my 6'1" 210lb muscular frame. Thats something that doesn't break the bank!
@@jeffsim4191 Yeah I mean you can do any functional trainer. But then you're not shopping for a smart home gym so this list doesn't matter. I like the freemotion but there are some nice functional trainers out there.
Speediance customer service is pitiful. They have false advertising on their site, and ghosted me when I asked them to explain their Early Bird Special pricing. No way would I give that kind of money to a company that won't reply to customers, and neither should you.
So, I currently rent and with the housing market as it is I don't expect to buy in the next 5 years. For all of its features, Tonal has an extremely narrow market. Basically, home owners with space and renters who can get it approved by the landlord and will keep a longterm lease. On top of that they took on the Peleton model of make an amazing product subscription only which we've already seen is a failing model. It hurts to say but at almost half the price I think Speediance made all the right moves and will eat up Tonal's share of the market if they don't do something quick. If I were at Tonal, this is what I would do: 1) Make agreements with a few large gyms to make space for Tonal equipment to be used by gym goers. I think Planet Fitness is the best option, and they could add Tonal use to their gym membership for an extra $15 to $30. They could easily make it so you link a phone app to whatever Tonal you show up to and never skip a beat with your workout. 2) MAKE THE DEVICE NON-SUBSCRIPTION FRIENDLY!!! I think if they allowed you to make all of your movements, make workout plans, hosted a broad library of basic workout plans, and still allowed for progress monitoring even with limits, it would make it so much more attractive! 3) Make a Tonal lite. Whether it's a floor unit or a Speedian-like unit, make a half price option that makes good use of that subscription. 4) Make a Tonal workout tracking app that is useful without a Tonal. Hear me out, if they had a workout tracking app that partnered with fitness trainers to provide quality basic workouts, they could charge a lesser subscription for it and get potential new users exposed to their product line. Then when people are looking to invest in a smart trainer, they've already been exposed and accustomed to the Tonal services they've experienced in the app. TLDR: Tonal needs to get their act together cause speediance is coming for them and they're only gonna get better.
Tonal is ridiculous........no way I'd ever pay that much. If someone would just give us a product with just the equipment without the screens, or smart features. Just a compact cable machine.........it'd sell like hot cakes. No way in hell I'm paying that much and a subscription. The subscription model just pisses me off on all these things. Give me the equipment without the bloody subscription.
“The negatives are that you have to adjust the weight or take classes via your phone or tablet.” In what universe is that a *negative*? An integrated screen is the dumbest thing in the universe.
It's just the new wave of old school tricks. They all useless just stick to the gym. Cheaper with more equipment. Gym costs £250 a year that's £750 for 3 years. If these machines come to market at max £1000 with a subscription £25/m they would get millions more customers
Dude, your video is totally whack. All of those contraptions will break the bank. Thank goodness I invested in Tony Little's PERFECT TRAINER and Ridge Fit using the Bodylastics door suspension system - all for less than $500. I have already changed my Perfect Trainer bands for greater resistance, and the portability is unbeatable. At my age, I must work out smarter, not harder. And I am no cheapo either. I purchased both the Cybex 610a Arc Trainer and Life Fitness recumbent bike during COVID but I do not need a wall system unless it is with real weight that offers both concentric and eccentric resistance. As a retired kickboxer and long distance cyclist, I currently skate and have no need for heavy weights at my age. You must be some spokesman for some or all of these companies because all of your products are bank busters. I will keep my Perfect Trainer, change resistance bands every year, and be happy with my portable gym that I can take anywhere.
I could deal with the cost. I will NOT deal with a required subscription to use my $4500 thing. That is ludicrous.
don't forget if the company dissappears, you'll end up with a machine with locked features because some are only available with a subscription. This is the worst business practice I'm surprised is legal tbh.
@@nobytes2good point thank you for your share and input
Bought my Tonal 3 years ago. I recommend it. When I first got it and did the advanced programs, I got unsolicited comments about how fit I looked for being in my
mid to late forties. Lately, I am lazy and do lighter programs and basically you reap what you sow. But at least it keeps me
from being totally sedentary. That was my problem
with being a , "I just need a bench, dumbells and squat rack guy" when you missed a few weeks it was tougher to get back into for me and so I delayed even longer. With Tonal, I know I have option to just keep me from
being sedentary when I am not quite feeling it. Plus the programs give you really balanced workouts which I need because I will neglect body parts I dont feel like working out.
I have a Speediance and I'm very happy with it. Space, time, and money saved.
Mine is waiting to ship, Can you tell me the import fees?
Do you know if they will offer a lifetime access too like Vitruvian?
@@scottamolinari Lifetime membership is offered on their home page.
@@jimleitner1521 Hot damn. They are selling it in the price of the machine! That makes it very attractive.
I super appreciate your videos!!! I ended up going with a Tempo and have been using it just about every day since October. I will say, I don’t have the pro package and even still there’s so much offered in a variety of classes, the live classes are amazing but their customer service is phenomenal!! The service & the community alone are the reasons why I bought and have no regrets with my tempo. Videos like this are so helpful!
Thanks Nikita and happy to know you are enjoying Tempo!
I did the same thing. I was curious about Tonal but wasn’t sold by it fully. I ended up purchasing the Tempo Pro pack (awaiting shipping time now). I like the whole concept of it, the future that it’s going in and the options that are available. I got a used Tempo Move and have been using that and I am definitely happy with my choice.
also, forgot to mention one downside of the MaxPro... it doesn't offer any eccentric loading which means it has more limited application for strength training.
Honestly none of these even compare to Tonal...and Tonal is just an oversized tablet with 2 arms that hangs on your wall at all times and has a 3 year warranty that doesn't cover anything.
Smart gyms are just going to be a niche market for those who want to feel more rich than they probably are and those who are tech nerds and think a "smart" function makes every existing item better.
They usually have other expensive and useless crap such as a peloton bike so you can bicycle watching the wall instead of nature and people or a fitnesstracker that tracks their calories and is only 20% off.
These smart gyms have a sleek design. However, the reason I'm not buying any of them is because where are these companies going to be in 10-20 years? After the warranty is over, can someone fix these machines, whether it's a software, mechanical, or hardware issue? Do they provide software updates periodically?
Thanks for your run down in this very competitive space. As a tonal user for the past year I am biased but it is the best purchase I have ever made for fitness. I use it consistently and I’m in the best shape of my life.
as a person who lives in Europe, in my opinion it costs a lot, and even if you don't go to the gym it's still very difficult to amortize the cost over the years
I don't have a problem with the price, but with the needed subscription to unlock features that should be already unlocked with the initial cost. Nevertheless their business practices are shady af, I'm surprised this is a legal practice. I'm sure many are doing it but given they fired all their fitness instructors and their legal problems it won't be long until they go under if they are not already there.
Just got the speedience gym monster and I'm really happy with it! Did a bunch of workouts already, super easy to use and doesn't take up much space at all.
I've been watching Tonal since 2020 but kept waiting to see what was going on with them but had an uneasy feeling about them. I've been watching all the emails announcing price updates and still resisted. I've searched for posts from owners with issues and how support has handled them. Ultimately, while it still looks like an amazing machine and I still want one, I'm passing because I just don't trust them. I really appreciate your videos.
why?
He can't even answer, he just doesn't know @@aecoIT
EXACTLY how I fell brotha, you took the words right outta my mouth. Its NOT worth 4K plus $720 year for mebership.
I am going with Speediance. By far the best. I just sold my Max Pro because it does not offer eccentric resistance at all...none and it is not even offered at any cost. It does not belong in this group.
Max pro has a place, but yeah, it’s not a full alternative as these are. Size, portability, and price weigh heavily in its favor as a supplemental piece of equipment.
@@balboa0621 The Handy Gym is portable like the max pro but one can get a much better workout with it. I replaced my max pro with the Handy Gym and not looking back. The Handy Gym is just about the most cool workout product out there at this time.
How are you getting on with Speediance? from the features that have been described in the video it seems very convenient especially for the fact that even if you don't have a subscription you can still do what you want, the workout you want
Is there a lat pulldown option?
What’s the max weight for squat ? Does it reach 800 lbs
I have had Tonal going on 2 years. My subscription was pre-paid for 3 years. It’s the best home fitness equipment I’ve ever owned. I sold my cumbersome, chunky Tempo to buy Tonal. That said, with machines like Forme and OxeFit out, I suggest people look at competing options that didn’t exist when I bought Tonal.
So obnoxious....I just want the technology/equipment without all the junk. I don't need a giant touchscreen. I don't need smart features or a subscription to programs, etc.
I literally just want a wall mount cable machine.......that's compact and isn't throwing weight plates around. These are awesome....I don't need all the junk attached to them with subscriptions and programs and smart crap.
Thanks coach for the video, can you please make an updated 2024 version of this video .
I have the space for an actual rack, barbells, dumbbells, and an Inspire M3 home gym, but if I were constrained, I’d get a functional trainer like a Cybex or an Inspire FTX and an adjustable bench. If I were pressed for cash I’d get a bow flex (had before) since they fold up, are very cost effective, especially if bough used, and fold up to save space, depending on the model.
Speediance really looks like Tonal "Lite". Kinda wonder if this will make Tonal develop an entry model of sorts. At any rate, I'm a Tonal user that bought it in early 2019. Wife and I both love it, no regrets unless they go under and I'm stuck with a "brick" in the wall. I really thought Peloton would buy them but Peloton has been negative cash flow post pandemic. They are barely floating.
I have ordered gymera.
It seems like the next best thing (compared to Tonal) and without wall installation.
Delivery is in June , cant wait!
Can you reply here when you get it? First impressions, etc? I'm very interested.
How do you like the gymera?
You are spot on, the people at tonal have never been in touch with reality!
If you’re really determined, you can get jacked for CHEAP with just calisthenics, even more so when you throw in rings or a weighted vest. The only potential downsides are sometimes poor/slow progressions & a lack of variety of movements which can cause injury, boredom, and sub optimal rep ranges. When I can’t hit the gym or playground, I got in my bedroom some Olympic weights, a Kensui vest, yoga blocks, farmer walk straps (loop through the weights), and Walmart plastic bags filled with water bottles for dumbbells. My bench is 285lb and can EZ bar preacher curl 100lb so I think im doing ok.
Vitruvian all the way.... 440 lbs and the only one that I think has 100% eccentric mode (correct me if I'm wrong). The lack of screen is an advantage... you can place any type of screen you want anywhere - much more versatile. How are you going to see the screen when you're facing down / up or away from the screen? You can put your phone / tablet / tv anywhere you want and even have 2 screens as you mirror from your phone to tv.
Does it require a smartphone or Internet connection to function?
@@Tomasquo smartphone - yes. Internet - no - unless you’re streaming a class.
You can see your screen facing up on Tonal.
no pull downs, deal breaker for me
So cool, thanks for this video! Vitruvian and Tempo are not really the same form factor, thus fewer exercises... There's also the Wolfmate M2 on pre-order. I've seen in a showroom in Montreal, it was amazing.
I just found a used Tonal for $2,400 on facebook marketplace. Even used the Tonal is built like a tank, I’ve had no issues. My thought is there is a good chance if I end up wanting to go a different direction, I can sell it for what I paid. Anyway that’s my recommendation try and find one used there is always someone out there that buys exercise equipment with the best intentions but end up not using it and selling it.
Great video! Honestly though I really don't think Max pro belongs on this list, that thing is such a waste of money IMO but to each his own.
Ya I agree with you, it’s one of the few I never tried and was hoping to get a lower priced option in, but didn’t know initially that it doesn’t provide eccentric resistance. I took it off the list for the written version here connectthewatts.com/2023/01/24/tonal-alternatives/
Joey the man! And what about Handy gym? portable, smart, eccentric mode and best of all no subscription.
I love the way you don’t give the price of the product as we would be trying to save money and just go All in ❤
Subbing. You are doing a great job looking into this category.
Another Tonal user. It's unlike anything I've used. Vitruvian and Tempo are out for me I could easily just replace those with free weights so really unless they offer the pulling cable machine exercises for back and shoulders it has very little benefit over what I have in my basement. Oxefit would be my second choice vs Tonal. Though Speediance seems ok but I'm not confident that they can compete long term. The Tonal is fantastic and so is the support. The competition is good though hopefully once Tonal get's stable the prices come down. My insurance paid for some of Tonal and covers the membership so the price isn't really an issue for us.
how did your insurance pay for the tonal?
@@cameronchow7183 Blue Cross Blue shield's activefit pays $20 per month per person to work out 12times per month. The $1000 toward the price was a Prudential wellness program. There are a lot of health plans that pay for you to work out and get fit you just have to ask yours.
Thanks so much for this video. i am not sure which to go with but know I dont want to purchase somethig that depends soley on a monthly membership that keeps rising.
Really saved the best for last! Those last two are great
I am longing for the launching of Gymera.
Hate that the tonal raised their monthly price, although they did just add form check from your phone. And what I hate the most is the bricking of the tracking without a subscription. They really should offer that for cheaper, like $20 a month for people who don’t want the classes.
However, the only thing on your list that comes close to the tonal is the home gym. If you have the room and know how you can build quite the home gym for the price of these things. But the Tonal is way better than everything else you listed. And worth the extra money.
But it’s incomparable as it’s free weights, not connected fitness. OxeFit or FORME Lift would’ve been comparable.
I had Tonal since their beginning.. There is alot of pros and cons as you mentioned.. Subscription is really bad.. Not sure why Tonal can't just offer you smart feature without coaching for less subscription fee. I just use it with Subscription and have been doing it for more than 1 year. Its still the best space saving system out there. If I did have space, definitely would get the rack, free weights so much more effective in terms of load on your body. The 2nd product, only having weight controlled by APP, is a deal breaker for me... it will drive me nuts to have to use my phone to adjust weight everytime. 😅
I have worked out very consistently on Tonal for a year and it is amazing. I think it’s like an iPhone versus a Samsung. You can list all the features of both and the Samsung is a better deal on paper, but the iPhone is the iPhone. You get the same feeling when you own a Tonal. That said, I am disappointed with the subscription increase. I do think Tempo seems more customer friendly but damn the Tonal is awesome.
Fellow Tonal owner here who owned a Tempo. Tonal is much better and safer to me. I sold Tempo due to space but also changing out weight plates for small muscle groups. It’s time consuming.
I was thinking about getting a tonal but the only reason I didn't is just because the subscription is both so expensive, AND you lose so much functionality without it. Just isn't worth it to me to potentially own glorified wall art in case they go out of business, and I am not even sure if I could reasonably afford that pricey subscription with my income.
Speediance has said live classes are coming this year. I have a Speediance and a MAXPRO. I love both systems. MAXPRO absolutely belongs on this list. Especially since my broke my arm and for some exercises my wrist hurts. But I can do those exercises on the MAXPRO and go pretty heavy for me. I can feel a pump. The Speediance is really good too. Just some off translation, a few glitches that can be updated with software. Plus more content and it will be great too.
I'm actually considering the MaxPro or Speediance. We have a newborn in the house and I'm a bit hesitant at having some free weights hanging on the walls with the kiddo when he starts to hit the single digit years. Also, it's easier to make time to exercise when you're at home rather than having to drive to our gym (which sucks, because we had a great membership at a boat house where we could also do whitewater rafting and such, c'est la vie...).
I like the simplicity of the MaxPro and the weight limit, but really don't want to put any holes in our walls as we may buy/build another house later and I would prefer to "pack it away" when not in use. However, the Speediance classes look like they'd be great, but obviously more expensive. How do you like each one and do you prefer one over the other? Cost isn't much of an issue here, but I have zero faith in Tonal (even at the beginning when it was clear they were going for subscription based revenue model and I knew that wasn't going to last post-pandemic) which is why I'm not even considering them. The Vitruvian is very close second, but I don't think we'll ever need 440lbs of resistance!
@@ryanshannon6963 I like both. I like athe more modes of the Speediance but the Maxpro is more portable. Just know the Maxpro doesn't have eccentric resistance.
The video is great, but how many have you actually used? How reliable are they long term? The market is exploding in this area and eventually will contract as happens in most industries. No doubt Tonal is slick, but very expensive and what happens if they crash? The industry is relatively immature at this point and making a choice is tough. Very concerned abut the Foxcom issue. Hmmm.
Any plans to review the arena home gym?
I bought my tonal when it was a grand less. They are getting ridiculous with their pricing but hey.... the market is commanding it since there's no great competition yet.
The max pro seems like the best deal until you use it and find it doesn't do eccentric. So there is resistance when you pull, but not on the way back, so it misses the most effective portion of the lift.
Tonal is still the best of these machines, for even pro bodybuilders and anyone except pro powerbuilders (as the 200lb can feel like 300lb but that is still lacking for a pro powerlifter since they use lower rep ranges).
It covers all the angles which some of the other machines do, and the weight modes make it more efficient than the PRX. I don't use my PRX much anymore.
Speedience looks like a great compromises and the best value though
The best dumb gym? Synapse CCR. One rep max machine, both lifting and lowering (where we are stronger). Also, isometrics at any angle.
The problem with Tonal is that they do not offer an extended warranty! Soooo... after 2 years should anything happen you are out of luck. Also, the whole warranty issue with second-hand ownership and self-installation is bullshit. The customer service interactions that I have had with them encouraged me to RUN away from any further purchase consideration.
I wish someone made stuff like this without the expectation of subscriptions. I just want the equipment and the tracking. I don’t need some personal trainer on a video.
Currently speediance is offering a free lifetime membership and Vitruvian has no subscription fees for life if you pay an extra $990. Both look good compared to Tonal which requires a $720 yearly membership
Huge thanks for this video !!!
You forgot one HUGE point in all this. Reliably! Who's to say these smart home gyms will be around 10 years to do updates and I doubt those cables will last. PRX for the win that it will easily last 30 years or more plus you just buy weights
What do you think of Oxefit?
I have question i have been using the iso max machine for 3 months not really i like it but i was interested and have been watching it for year or i was msybe intetested
vitruvian what do think might be better i know vitruvian is alot more money
Tonal is amazing, totally worth the money IMO. Yeah it is kind of expensive, but if you can afford it, do it. Best investment in my health I have ever made.
I know the video was about cheaper options… but what about the OxeFit XS1??!!
Seems interesting but haven’t heard from anyone that has been able to use one. Similar pricing to Tonal as well. I’m also hoping to try out the FORME Lift soon which is also comparable to Tonal in both function and price.
True! I had forgotten about the Forme Lift! OxeFit has a showroom not too far from me. Less than an hour away at Jupiter, FL. I’ve been meaning to go check it out
Can you track form without subscription
What is the maximum weight in this machine can I lift
You need to add macvon to the list… i bet it’s the manufacture Pissed off and made the same thing for less money
Know anyone that’s tried this? It looks like it’s only been out a few months. I ordered the Tonal a few weeks ago and then canceled because of fear of instability and the gear shop being down. Where I would install the unit I would need their mount covers and they couldn’t commit when I could get them. I’ve been tempted with Tempo but really want the wall mount and less gear around the house.
You cant buy those smart machines, you only rent them. 6647$/36 month = 185$ per month. And those things will not last more then 5 years, at least they will be morally outdated.
Traditional free wights you can use free and forever, and you can sell them a year or 20 years from now and get back at least some 20% to 40% of your purchase price.
PRX 3352$/120 month (10 years) = 28$/per month. If you use it for 20 years, then it is 14$/month. And buy some program to use on your phone or ipad, if you need one.
Thx for this video
Can you review the new Voltra 1 from Beyond Power?
Found this vid after finding the AliExpress Tonal clone (Asita Station). No reviews, coverage, or even impressions of the Asita online... which makes me morbidly curious about it. Supposedly its Tonal with all of the hardware and features but none of the subscription.
Thanks for the video. I would prefer if you compared hardware costs and subscription fees separately so it provides an apples to apples comparison. Also what if some of these other companies go out of business in 4 years. Lastly I think you should only offer wall mounted units that offer classes as comparable. There's a reason ppl are spending the extra money to buy those vs traditional dumbells units etc.
Noted! Though the reason I combine is because the subscription for most connected fitness is part of the actually price. Take WHOOP for example... the cost is $0. But requires a subscription to use. So it wouldn't make since to separate the "hardware costs" from the "subscription costs", especially given the hardware costs are often manipulated to be lower when a subscription is needed
Kind of surprised not to see Oxefit on the list?
OxeFit is around the same price as Tonal and still have not heard from anyone that has been able to test it in depth
Max pro would be the winner if it had resistance on the way down. Speediance is the winner.
This 100%
The lack of eccentric ruins it, but if it hard resistance in both directions it would be the best, and it would be no competition.
No NordicTrack studio? 😢
I'm dumping my membership. I will just do a workout created for me. Basic moves. They dumped all the original coaches and the Facebook community manager. I feel they will eventually fail.
wow, Tonal cut your ACCESS by like 90% Holy Shit.....Thats MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR specially at $60 month WTF....Was going to get a Tonal until I just saw your video, definitely NOT NOW....good Video man...
You missed the Squadz Apollo board (motion space) at $1500 free app to use...I haven't tried it yet but it seems great on paper the only thing is that the app isn't as good as the others...a review on that one would be great✌️
So "smart" just means hidden costs, that explains almost everything about the last 15 years.
there is far better alternative. "Eisenhorn" cost 2000€ complete with everything
How about Gymera?
Not sure. I don’t think it’s officially out yet.
I don’t think any are a good bang for your buck unless you have money to burn. You could join a big name gym for let’s say 40 a month and it would still only come out to over 400 a year. And you get way more functionality
I don't get why so many people are keen to stare at a screen while working out. Training/Exercising should be a chance to get unplugged and turn off the brain.
How about calculating in the time and energy and annoyance to prepare yourself and to drive to the gym and back home? Just having to get somewhat presentable and getting into a car might be enough deterrent to stop someone from even going to the gym. With a gym at home, you can basically just jump on it and start working out and not have to worry about if you are "ok" for being in the public eye. That has a lot of value. Though, the monthly charges they are asking for is still exuberant. I wholeheartedly agree with that.
I so badly wish there was something like Tonal or Speediance that didn't require the user interface. Just give me something to change the resistance, don't charge me an arm and a leg, and leave me alone: I already know what I'm doing.
Vitruvian+ is potentially the answer here. Especially since they do offer a "lifetime membership" option so you don't have to worry about paying forever to keep using everything and get features upgrades
They all do that and even Tonal if you don't want it to track your workouts it's just a digital weight machine without a membership.
@@Oliver1071 I understand that, but my point is that without the digital panel it should be a lot less $
I found a nordic track pt3... $75. Same idea as tonal as far as cable based with moving arms. Loads of resistance for my 6'1" 210lb muscular frame. Thats something that doesn't break the bank!
@@jeffsim4191 Yeah I mean you can do any functional trainer. But then you're not shopping for a smart home gym so this list doesn't matter. I like the freemotion but there are some nice functional trainers out there.
Speediance customer service is pitiful. They have false advertising on their site, and ghosted me when I asked them to explain their Early Bird Special pricing. No way would I give that kind of money to a company that won't reply to customers, and neither should you.
So, I currently rent and with the housing market as it is I don't expect to buy in the next 5 years. For all of its features, Tonal has an extremely narrow market. Basically, home owners with space and renters who can get it approved by the landlord and will keep a longterm lease. On top of that they took on the Peleton model of make an amazing product subscription only which we've already seen is a failing model. It hurts to say but at almost half the price I think Speediance made all the right moves and will eat up Tonal's share of the market if they don't do something quick. If I were at Tonal, this is what I would do:
1) Make agreements with a few large gyms to make space for Tonal equipment to be used by gym goers. I think Planet Fitness is the best option, and they could add Tonal use to their gym membership for an extra $15 to $30. They could easily make it so you link a phone app to whatever Tonal you show up to and never skip a beat with your workout.
2) MAKE THE DEVICE NON-SUBSCRIPTION FRIENDLY!!! I think if they allowed you to make all of your movements, make workout plans, hosted a broad library of basic workout plans, and still allowed for progress monitoring even with limits, it would make it so much more attractive!
3) Make a Tonal lite. Whether it's a floor unit or a Speedian-like unit, make a half price option that makes good use of that subscription.
4) Make a Tonal workout tracking app that is useful without a Tonal. Hear me out, if they had a workout tracking app that partnered with fitness trainers to provide quality basic workouts, they could charge a lesser subscription for it and get potential new users exposed to their product line. Then when people are looking to invest in a smart trainer, they've already been exposed and accustomed to the Tonal services they've experienced in the app.
TLDR: Tonal needs to get their act together cause speediance is coming for them and they're only gonna get better.
So this company is cash grabbing and then they’ll close
Tonal is ridiculous........no way I'd ever pay that much.
If someone would just give us a product with just the equipment without the screens, or smart features. Just a compact cable machine.........it'd sell like hot cakes.
No way in hell I'm paying that much and a subscription.
The subscription model just pisses me off on all these things. Give me the equipment without the bloody subscription.
a mirror with a workout video in the background.
yup... no internet needed.
Geesh their all expensive
No chance I would pay a subscription after 4000 bucks. I’ll stick
To my 9.99 monthly planet fitness bill
What a scam. Pay thousands of dollars and be forced to forever spend money to use the product.
$500 goes to Lebron
“The negatives are that you have to adjust the weight or take classes via your phone or tablet.”
In what universe is that a *negative*? An integrated screen is the dumbest thing in the universe.
gamestop
Woww mind boggling that they charge a membership on top of an already astronomical initial cost… capitalism gone wild!
Foldable squat rack ... Lol
It's just the new wave of old school tricks. They all useless just stick to the gym. Cheaper with more equipment. Gym costs £250 a year that's £750 for 3 years. If these machines come to market at max £1000 with a subscription £25/m they would get millions more customers
Dude, your video is totally whack. All of those contraptions will break the bank. Thank goodness I invested in Tony Little's PERFECT TRAINER and Ridge Fit using the Bodylastics door suspension system - all for less than $500. I have already changed my Perfect Trainer bands for greater resistance, and the portability is unbeatable. At my age, I must work out smarter, not harder. And I am no cheapo either. I purchased both the Cybex 610a Arc Trainer and Life Fitness recumbent bike during COVID but I do not need a wall system unless it is with real weight that offers both concentric and eccentric resistance. As a retired kickboxer and long distance cyclist, I currently skate and have no need for heavy weights at my age.
You must be some spokesman for some or all of these companies because all of your products are bank busters. I will keep my Perfect Trainer, change resistance bands every year, and be happy with my portable gym that I can take anywhere.
He lost me a libary… 🫣