Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Sorry ... this is a long one. I'm really excited about my new Total Gym XLS! I've been watching the infomercials about this machine for years. I'm a former athlete in the "over fifty" category now and lately have been feeling like I've been losing muscle mass at a scary pace. Honestly, I have no desire to see the inside of a gym ever again but decided I needed to do something. I have two very expensive aerobic-type exercise machines and I hate them both. So ... I ordered the Total Gym XLS. The reason I just gave you my "life's story" is to encourage other "mature" folks to give this a try. First, the Total Gym arrived well-packaged and completely assembled! Hurrah! The XLS package comes with lots of goodies ... quick start instructions and DVD, accessories for the machine, a creative exercise card system, and a whole library of DVD's that can take you as far as you want to go! I was literally working out within 10 minutes of opening the box. The machine is made really well. Pin system is easy to use, pulleys are very smooth, and the body board g-l-i-d-e-s beautifully. The machine folds/unfolds easily and I can roll it into a closet with no hassle. My one comment regarding this: Make sure you place both safety pins fully in the correct holes before attempting to move the machine in its folded/upright position. If not, the body board may shift and catch your fingers. I've only had the XLS for a few weeks but for the first time in about 20 years, I actually wake up looking forward to working out! There are so many options for exercises and the machine is so smooth that I can do a complete workout (all muscle groups) from 20 min - 1 hour. I don't know what the "action" difference is, but I really like it. At the end of my workouts, my muscles feel "used" but good, and I'm not sore for the following two days. I've been impressed that some of my flexibility is coming back, too. Feels great! AND, believe it or not ... I've dropped 8 lbs. without making any other lifestyle changes. I can DEFINITELY handle that! Wish I had purchased this gem a long time ago. If you're on the fence, give it a try. You can have your own whole home gym forever for less than the annual cost of an elite gym membership. (And, ladies, you don't have to shower and do hair/make-up just to use it!!) Kuddos to Mr. Norris, Ms. Brinkley and the entire Total Gym team for putting together such a great product. Thank you for continuing to encourage us all to stay fit!