Finding the best multi gym under 500 pounds or dollars can be tricky at times because knowing what sort of quality and features you're getting for your cash isn't always straightforward.
A multi gym is essentially a selection of weightlifting and cardio equipment combined into one compact workstation, thus making it one of the best pieces of home gym equipment you can buy. They can often be modelled on some of the best squat racks around, however, as shown in our list, this isn't always the case.
For instance, this BodyBoss 2.0 offers a ton of different exercises for you to complete from the comfort of your own home using just a board and a selection of resistance-based attachments.
On the other hand, this Marcy Pro Deluxe PM-5108 goes down a more traditional multi gym route of a weights rack, bench, and attachments allowing you to perform some of the best back exercises, for instance, from the comfort of your own home.
Ultimately, whatever it is you're after from a multi gym, our list has you covered. So, without further ado, let's get into it...
Best multi gym under 500
1. Marcy Pro Deluxe PM-5108
Best multi gym under 500 overall
Weight Limit: 300lbs
When it comes to unlocking a number of new exercises at home, you probably won't find many better machines than this Marcy Pro Deluxe.
It comes with an array of different options including flat bench press, incline bench, squats, and even lat pulldowns so you can complete a full-body workout with ease.
On the construction front, the frame is made from oversized 14-gauge square tubing with powder coating which, Marcy boasts, is capable of holding up to 300 lbs, so should suit all experience levels right through to weightlifting veterans.
All in all, we feel this deluxe multi gym is a great bit of kit to take your home gym and workouts to the next level. Make sure you check out our list of the best foods for protein though to ensure you're fueling your training with the right nutrients for muscle growth.
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2. Bowflex PR1000
Best beginners multi gym under 500
Weight Limit: 200 lbs
If you're just beginning your fitness journey, then this Bowflex PR1000 multi gym could be an ideal place to start as Bowflex is one of the leading brands in fitness gear.
What we like about this machine, in particular, is that Bowflex states it gives you access to 25+ exercises that cover all the major muscle groups in your body. Moreover, the seat is highly adjustable, allowing you to even convert it into a rolling chair so you can undertake some aerobic rowing to improve your cardio.
It's also worth noting that it comes with a tablet holder, thus helping to keep you entertained whilst working towards your fitness goals.
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3. BodyBoss 2.0
Best multi gym under 500 for small spaces
Weight Limit: N/A
The BodyBoss 2.0 aims to consolidate multiple exercise machines into one compact and easily transportable bit of kit so you can work out anywhere, even if you're limited to space.
To perform almost any exercise you can think of, all you have to do is attach the resistance bands to the board, and you can unlock movements that range from squats to overhead press and even resisted planks.
As part of the set, you also get useful handles to emulate most dumbbell exercises, plus straps to attach to your legs, for example, to help you train your lower body.
Ultimately, this multi gym appears to be a standout bit of kit to help you complete a full-body workout from the comfort of your own home.
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4. Total Gym APEX G3
Best multi gym under 500 for resistance
Weight Limit: 300 lbs
The Total Gym APEX G3 is a fantastic addition to your home gym, offering resistance-based training in a compact design that won't take up too much space.
With over 70 exercises available, this multi gym provides versatility and allows you to challenge yourself with its 8 adjustable resistance levels. As your fitness improves, you can easily progress by increasing the difficulty.
To support your workouts, the package includes a convenient flip chart to keep track of your exercises and progress. On top of that, you gain access to Total Gym TV, an on-demand video platform packed with a variety of cardio, strength training, and pilates videos, helping you elevate your fitness to new heights.
Considering all its features and benefits, the APEX G3 is undoubtedly a top-notch option, especially if you prefer a low-impact, resistance-based workout machine for your home gym.
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5. Marcy MWM-988
Best multi gym under 500 with a weight stack
Weight Limit: 150lbs
If you're after something weighted, then this Marcy MWM-988 multi-gym could be your answer.
It comes with a 150lbs stack attached to numerous different movement mechanisms which include the lat pulldown bar, the leg extension bar, and the dual-action arms for upper-body-based exercises.
The benefit of a weighted stack is that it is a quicker and safer method of upping the weight compared to unloading and loading plates, thus making this machine a great bit of kit for high-intensity training.
Overall, we feel there's a lot to like about this MWM-988 machine which is why we've chosen to include it in our list.
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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
People often have a tonne of questions about multi gyms, especially as there are so many different types, but we're here to clear up a few common queries to help you make your purchase.
What should you look for from a multi gym?
First and foremost, we'd recommend checking the machine you're planning on purchasing to make sure it fits comfortably in your available space.
We'd also suggest making a note of its max. weight as you don't want to purchase a machine that you can already max. out on as this offers you very little room for improvement.
The rest is then pretty much down to you and what you're looking to get out of a multi gym. For example, you don't want to buy a multi gym that doesn't have the right tools and space needed to squat if the main reason you're looking for the machine is for lower-body workouts. That said, a multi gym can also unlock some of the best shoulder and chest exercises for you as well.
Is a multi gym worth it?
This is again down to personal preference and your available budget, however, we feel our list shows you don't have to necessarily spend loads to pick up a quality bit of kit that makes working out from home more accessible.
While you can quite easily spend a fair amount to pick up a high-end multi gym, some machines remain relatively inexpensive and offer you a number of different attachments to help you complete a challenging full-body workout.
So, to answer the first question, yes we believe a multi gym is worth it if you're looking to upgrade your home gym.
How much weight do you need with a multi gym?
This will vary depending on experience and what you need the multi gym for.
As a beginner, you may find a resistance-based multi gym to be more than difficult enough to complete a tough workout, however, as you start to progress, you may require something a little heavier to allow you to continue towards your fitness goals.
Exactly how much weight you need is hard to say as it will differ from person to person, but, in our opinion, something with a max. weight of 300lbs gives you plenty of room to maneuver and progress, whilst also being large enough to cover some of the bigger lifts like squats.
How often should you use a multi gym?
The beauty of a multi gym is that it tends to come with all the components necessary to train your entire body over the course of a week.
We'd recommend between three to five sessions in order to see progress and give yourself enough time to hit all body parts.
Although it may be tempting to train every day, studies have shown, including one of particular note by Yang et al., that you'll actually see greater improvements if you take one or two days of rest to allow your muscles to repair.