Home Gym (cable multigym) advice

mikeyandmary

Hi everyone,

I am looking to purchase a home gym and am seeking the wisdom of whirlpool on the following. I'm looking to use the gym for weight loss. I'll also be purchasing a recumbent bike for cardio. I know many will say free weights are better but at this early stage I would rather a multigym.

So... Does anyone have any preferences/suggestions/feedback on any of the following. The sales guy at Fitbiz was pushing the Proteus, mostly because it had cast iron weights (the others have vinyl) and its quieter.

BODYWORX 215 LBS HOME GYM WITH LEG PRESS $999
http://www.fitbiz.com.au/FITBIZ/client/ProductCatalogue/c_catalogueItem.jsp?catName=Strength&pID=3&catID=45&prodID=1897

HEALTHSTREAM HS200EGPLUS HOME GYM WITH LEG PRESS $1199
http://www.fitbiz.com.au/FITBIZ/client/ProductCatalogue/c_catalogueItem.jsp?catName=Strength&pID=3&catID=45&prodID=1992

PROTEUS STUDIO 2000 HOME GYM WITH LEG PRESS $1999
http://www.fitbiz.com.au/FITBIZ/client/ProductCatalogue/c_catalogueItem.jsp?catName=Strength&pID=3&catID=45&prodID=152

Thanks...
Michael
(edited to add prices)

Rado_SVK

I would go for the first one

danimalkeys

I'd skip them all and spend half that on a squat rack, adjustable bench, and Olympic barbell set. There is no need to start on machines so you can move to free weights later- just start with the free weights.

Rado_SVK

That was exactly the answer he didnt need..he wasnt asking what would you do for your goals,he was just asking advice on that range of machines..if he wants machines,let him have machines,he is not into bodybuilding,he wants to lose weight and I assume tone up a bit and do some cardio along..for that a multi machine at home is perfect..did you ever thing how much room he has for it? with 3-4 different separate equipment,specially from those you have listed none of are exactly compact...

danimalkeys

Thanks for pointing out the error of my response. I retract my statement that a squat rack, bench and barbell would be a better investment and better training tool than a home multi gym.

There was no mention of available space, but a rack/bench and barbell don't take up any more room than a gym, and probably requires less available space because the home gym needs access from all sides for the different stations. But again, I defer to your spectactular observation on the relevance of my post.

BrianSharpe

The Proteus looks very similar to the one I own (probably made in the same factory in China and a different label put on....and prices seem higher in Australia than Canada).

I've been happy with mine, it's sturdy & well made and you can perform a good range of exercises on it. If I were to do it again, though, I'd get the version without the leg press option - squats are more effective (and the machine would take up less space and have simpler cabling)