Total Gym - Diet Plan Outline

The Total Gym is an all-in-one home exercise machine which allows its user to isolate each of the body's muscle groups. The basis behind the Total Gym is resistance training on an incline/decline bench. It is sold through a slick infomercial featuring Chuck Norris and Christie Brinkly. There are several different machines to chose from (Total Gym model 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, xl) starting at around $250. Most cost over $1000 with the upgrades. There are also videos and various other fitness products one can purchase.

Home exercise machines are good because they are convenient and perhaps less expensive in the long-term if you don't mind paying $1000 upfront. You avoid a commute to a health club and the potential embarrassment of working out in front of others when you are overweight and out of shape.

Home exercise machines are bad because they are expensive and offer less options than a health club. Your local health club will have personal trainers, free weights, cardio-machines, aerobics classes, and possibly a pool or basketball court. The Total Gym may protect you from embarrassment, but that pressure can be a powerful factor in maintaining your motivation.

The biggest problem with home exercise machines as well as health club workouts in general is that they are pure exercise. Most people lose their motivation in time. For weight loss and general fitness we are much bigger fans of lifestyle exercise activities such as tennis, hiking, walking, cycling, dancing, climbing, etcetera... These are the type of activities that you don't think of as exercise and sustain themselves in the long-term. Add a basic food program or one of the simple and inexpensive online programs for structure and support, and you have the best possible option for success.