Gym Monster 2 Review 2026: Worth the Price Tag?

Are you tired of paying monthly gym fees and waiting for equipment? The Speediance Gym Monster 2 might be your answer. This smart home gym promises to replace your entire gym membership with one sleek machine. But does it really work?

I spent months researching this machine, and what I found surprised me. The Gym Monster 2 isn’t just another fancy piece of home equipment that turns into an expensive coat rack.

It’s a serious training tool that uses AI technology to help you build muscle and strength right in your living room.

Key Takeaways:

• Digital Weight System: The machine uses electromagnetic resistance up to 110 pounds per arm (220 pounds total). This means no clunky weight plates and instant adjustments through a Bluetooth ring.
• All-in-One Design: It transforms into a squat rack, cable machine, Smith machine, rowing station, and dumbbell setup in seconds. You get six machines in one compact footprint.
• AI-Powered Training: The system tracks your range of motion, speed, and balance in real time. It knows when you’re struggling and when you’re ready to level up.
• No Subscription Required: Unlike Tonal that costs $59.95 per month, the Gym Monster 2 gives you access to 500+ workouts completely free. Optional Wellness+ subscription costs only $19.99 monthly.
• Space-Saving Design: The machine folds down to just 73 by 28 by 15 inches. It sits on wheels so you can roll it anywhere. No wall mounting needed.

What Makes Gym Monster 2 Different from Regular Home Gyms

Regular home gyms take up your entire basement. They use weight stacks that clang and clatter. They require you to manually change pins and adjust seats constantly.

The Gym Monster 2 throws all that out the window. This machine uses digital weight technology powered by electromagnetic motors. You adjust resistance with a twist of your finger on a Bluetooth ring. The motors provide smooth, consistent tension throughout every rep.

The beauty lies in the versatility. Morning bench press? Done. Afternoon cable flies? Easy. Evening squats? No problem. The machine adapts faster than you can switch playlists.

The 21.5-inch HD touchscreen guides you through each workout. Real trainers demonstrate proper form. The AI system monitors your movements and provides feedback. You see your progress in real time.

Most impressive? The footprint. When folded, this thing takes up less space than a treadmill. You can wheel it into a corner after your workout. Try doing that with a traditional power rack.

Breaking Down the Digital Weight System

Digital weights sound like science fiction, but they’re incredibly practical. The Gym Monster 2 uses electromagnetic resistance instead of iron plates.

Here’s how it works. Two motors sit in the base of the machine. These motors create magnetic resistance through cables connected to your handles. When you want more weight, the motors increase resistance. Less weight? They decrease it instantly.

The system goes from zero to 110 pounds per arm in increments as small as seven pounds. That’s precise control you can’t get with traditional weight plates. No more awkward 2.5-pound micro plates sliding off the bar.

The resistance stays consistent through the entire movement. Traditional weights rely on gravity, so tension varies at different angles. Digital weights maintain constant tension whether you’re at the top or bottom of a movement.

The Bluetooth control ring makes adjustments effortless. You wear it on your finger while working out. Mid-set, you can twist the dial to add or remove weight without stopping. The system responds instantly.

This technology particularly shines for drop sets and progressive overload training. You can decrease weight in seconds when muscles fatigue. No fumbling with weight plates while your muscles scream.

The AI Training Features That Actually Matter

AI in fitness equipment often means fancy marketing with little substance. The Gym Monster 2 takes a different approach.

The system uses velocity-based training (VBT) to measure your performance. It tracks how fast you move the weight, your range of motion, and whether you’re applying even force on both sides.

This data matters because it reveals your true effort level. Moving 100 pounds slowly shows fatigue. Moving it explosively shows power. The AI recognizes these patterns and adjusts recommendations accordingly.

The form feedback system monitors balance through the motors. If you’re pushing unevenly during a bench press, the screen shows which side is working harder. This helps prevent muscle imbalances before they cause problems.

The Wellness+ subscription adds personalized workout planning. The AI analyzes your goals, current fitness level, and available time. It creates custom programs that progress as you improve.

Real-time rep counting eliminates guesswork. The system knows when you complete a full rep and when you cut range of motion short. It won’t count half reps, keeping you honest.

The machine stores all your workout data. You can review past sessions, track strength gains, and identify weak points. This historical data helps spot trends that weekly gym visits might miss.

Top 3 Alternatives for Gym Monster 2

Setting Up Your Gym Monster 2: What to Expect

The Gym Monster 2 arrives in a large box weighing 172 pounds. Most of that weight sits in the base, making it bottom-heavy and stable.

Assembly takes about an hour if you follow the instructions carefully. You’ll need basic tools that come included. The process involves attaching the frame to the base, mounting the screen arm, and connecting cables.

The machine requires a power outlet and WiFi connection. Yes, you need internet even for basic manual mode. This might frustrate some users, but it enables the smart features and software updates.

Space requirements matter. When folded, the unit measures 73 by 28 by 15 inches. Unfolded with the mat down, it extends to 28 by 48 inches. Add clearance for movement and you need roughly a 6 by 8 foot area.

The fold-down mat locks into place with metal bars. This mat provides your workout surface and has mounting points for lower cable exercises. The rubber grip keeps you stable during intense movements.

Cable adjustment takes some getting used to. The pulleys slide into different positions on the frame rails. Moving them between exercises isn’t as smooth as Tonal’s arm system, but it’s manageable once you learn the pattern.

The screen connects to your WiFi during initial setup. Create your user profile, input your goals, and you’re ready to train. The interface walks you through each step clearly.

Workout Variety: Can One Machine Really Replace a Gym

The Gym Monster 2 offers over 500 different workout programs built into the system. These range from beginner-friendly full-body routines to advanced split training protocols.

Upper body exercises include bench press variations, shoulder presses, rows, pulldowns, flies, and isolation movements. The adjustable cable heights let you hit muscles from multiple angles.

Lower body training covers squats, lunges, leg curls, leg extensions, and hip movements. Add the optional rowing bench and you get hamstring curls and glute bridges.

Core work integrates into most programs. Cable chops, crunches, and rotational movements target your abs and obliques. The machine provides resistance for weighted ab exercises.

The system transforms into a rowing machine when you add the rowing bench accessory. This adds cardio variety to strength-focused training. The same motors that provide weight resistance create rowing tension.

Ski training mode mimics cross-country skiing movements. Set the handles high, grab them, and pull in a diagonal pattern. This full-body cardio option burns serious calories.

Free weight mode lets you design your own workouts. Choose any exercise, set the weight, and go. This flexibility appeals to experienced lifters who know exactly what they want.

The Handles and Accessories That Come With It

The basic package includes several essential accessories. The adjustable barbell features movable clips for different grip widths. This steel bar feels solid and supports various pressing and pulling movements.

Individual handles attach to each cable for unilateral work. These plastic tubes on nylon ropes work well for curls, rows, and flyes. They’re functional if not fancy.

Ankle straps wrap around your lower legs for kickbacks, leg curls, and hip movements. The padding prevents discomfort during high-rep sets.

The triceps rope provides that classic Y-shape with plastic knobs. Essential for overhead extensions and face pulls.

Extension straps add 16.3 inches of padded length to any cable. These prevent the cables from rubbing against your body during certain movements. Smart design choice.

The Bluetooth control ring deserves special mention. This tiny device slips onto your finger and controls weight instantly. Press to lock resistance, twist to adjust. It responds quickly though the wheel can be oversensitive.

Optional upgrades include PowerGrip handles, weight lifting belts, storage organizers, and specialty attachments. These accessories enhance the experience but aren’t necessary to start training.

Comparing Gym Monster 2 to Tonal and Other Smart Gyms

Tonal dominates the smart gym conversation, but it costs $4,295 plus mandatory subscription fees of $59.95 monthly. That’s $719.40 per year on top of the purchase price.

The Gym Monster 2 starts at $3,749 with zero subscription required. The optional Wellness+ costs $19.99 monthly or $119.88 yearly. That’s a massive difference in ongoing costs.

Tonal requires professional wall mounting. This limits placement options and makes moving impossible. The Gym Monster 2 rolls on wheels and needs no installation.

Tonal’s camera-based form tracking surpasses the Gym Monster 2’s motor-only feedback. Tonal can see your body position and provide more detailed corrections. The Gym Monster 2 only knows what the cables tell it.

Live classes differentiate Tonal’s experience. Real instructors lead scheduled workouts with community interaction. The Gym Monster 2 offers only prerecorded content, though it includes nearly 200 fully guided workout videos.

Both systems max out around 220-250 pounds total resistance. This satisfies most home users but might limit advanced lifters. Traditional weight stacks can exceed 400 pounds on commercial machines.

The Tonal screen and interface feel more polished. Better contrast, richer colors, more intuitive navigation. The Gym Monster 2’s screen works but feels cheaper in comparison.

Who Should Buy the Gym Monster 2

This machine suits intermediate to advanced lifters who understand proper form and exercise selection. The limited form feedback means you need baseline knowledge to train safely.

Home workout enthusiasts who already train at home will appreciate the upgrade. If you’re tired of adjusting dumbbells and moving benches, this consolidates your equipment.

Busy professionals benefit from the time savings. No commute, no waiting for equipment, no gym hours limitations. Train at 5 AM or midnight whenever your schedule allows.

Small space dwellers can finally access serious strength training. The foldable design works in apartments, condos, or spare bedrooms where traditional gyms won’t fit.

Budget-conscious buyers who balk at ongoing subscription fees will prefer the Gym Monster 2 over Tonal. The lower entry cost and no mandatory subscription make it more accessible.

This machine isn’t ideal for complete beginners without guidance. The AI provides basic feedback, but it won’t replace a knowledgeable trainer teaching you proper movement patterns.

The Real Cost: Is It Worth $3,749

The base Gym Monster 2 costs $3,749. Upgraded bundles add benches and accessories:

Works edition adds a flat bench for $3,949
Works Plus includes an adjustable bench for $4,099
Family Plus adds a rowing bench for $4,499

Compare this to three years of gym membership at $50 monthly. That’s $1,800 in fees plus gas, time, and hassle. The Gym Monster 2 pays for itself in roughly two years.

Traditional home gym equipment also adds up quickly. A quality power rack costs $500-$1,000. Add weights, bars, benches, and cable machines and you’re spending $2,000-$3,000. You’ll also need significantly more space.

The no subscription model saves money long-term. Tonal costs $719.40 annually in subscriptions alone. Over five years, that’s $3,597 on top of the higher purchase price.

Consider the convenience value. How much is your time worth? Eliminating a 30-minute commute each way saves hours weekly. That time has real monetary value for professionals.

The machine holds value because it’s fully functional without subscriptions. If Speediance goes out of business tomorrow, your Gym Monster 2 still works. Tonal becomes a brick without their servers.

Common Complaints and Honest Limitations

The cable adjustment system frustrates some users. Moving pulleys between exercises takes longer than Tonal’s arm system. You physically unclip and reclip cables at different mounting points.

Form feedback lags behind competitors. The motor-only tracking can’t match camera-based systems. It detects imbalance but can’t see if your back rounds during squats.

The AI voice for non-human-coached exercises sounds robotic and lifeless. It mispronounces words occasionally and lacks personality. The human trainers are better but only available on select workouts.

WiFi dependency annoys offline users. Even basic manual mode requires internet connection. This seems unnecessary for a machine with motors and a screen.

The screen quality looks dated compared to modern tablets. Colors appear washed out and contrast is mediocre. It’s functional but not impressive.

Maximum weight limits might restrict advanced powerlifters. The 110-pound per arm maximum (220 total) works for most exercises but falls short for heavy squats or deadlifts.

The learning curve for optimal setup takes time. Finding the right handle heights, understanding proper cable positions, and navigating the interface requires patience initially.

Maintenance and Long-Term Durability

The Gym Monster 2 uses electromagnetic motors rather than mechanical parts. Fewer moving parts mean less maintenance compared to traditional weight stacks.

The cables require occasional inspection. Check for fraying or damage every few months. Speediance provides replacement cables if needed, though reports suggest they hold up well.

The mat can be removed and hand-washed. The rubber feet and foam padding handle regular use without obvious wear in most reviews. Keep it clean to prevent slipping.

Software updates arrive periodically over WiFi. These add features, fix bugs, and improve the workout library. The system updates automatically when connected.

The warranty coverage includes one year on parts and labor. Extended warranties are available for purchase. Customer service reviews are mixed, with some praising responsiveness and others reporting delays.

Motor maintenance appears minimal. The electromagnetic system runs quietly and consistently. No reports suggest motor failures are common in the first year.

The frame construction uses durable materials. At 172 pounds, the machine feels solid and stable during use. No wobbling or shaking reported during normal exercises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Gym Monster 2 require a subscription to use?

No, the Gym Monster 2 works completely without a subscription. You get access to 500+ workouts, all exercise modes, and full functionality at no additional cost. The optional Wellness+ subscription at $19.99 per month adds AI-powered coaching and advanced progress tracking, but it’s not required.

How much space do I need for the Gym Monster 2?

When folded, the machine measures 73 by 28 by 15 inches. With the mat deployed, it extends to 28 by 48 inches. You should have roughly a 6 by 8 foot area to comfortably use the machine with clearance for movement.

Can the Gym Monster 2 replace an entire gym membership?

For most people, yes. The machine handles all major strength training exercises including pressing, pulling, squatting, and rowing movements. It can’t replicate specialized equipment like leg press machines or provide the social atmosphere of gyms, but it covers the fundamentals of resistance training.

What’s the maximum weight on the Gym Monster 2?

Each motor provides up to 110 pounds of resistance, for a total of 220 pounds when both arms work together. This satisfies most home users for exercises like bench press, rows, and shoulder work. Advanced powerlifters might find this limiting for heavy squats.

Is the Gym Monster 2 good for beginners?

The machine works better for people with some fitness experience. The form feedback is limited compared to Tonal, so you need basic understanding of proper technique. Complete beginners might benefit more from a system with camera tracking and more detailed coaching.

How loud is the Gym Monster 2 during workouts?

The electromagnetic motors run very quietly. You’ll hear minimal noise during exercises, much quieter than clanging weight plates. The built-in speakers for workout audio are louder than the actual machine operation.

Can I watch Netflix or YouTube on the screen?

No, the Gym Monster 2’s screen is dedicated to workout functions only. You cannot access streaming services or browse the internet on the built-in display. The system requires WiFi for workout features but doesn’t function as a general entertainment device.

Does the Gym Monster 2 need to be mounted to a wall?

No, the Gym Monster 2 is completely freestanding. It sits on a heavy base with wheels for mobility. This is a major advantage over Tonal, which requires professional wall mounting that limits placement and makes moving impossible.

How often does Speediance add new workouts?

Speediance regularly updates the workout library over WiFi. The machine currently includes 500+ workouts, and the company continues adding new programs and features. These updates happen automatically when your machine is connected to the internet.

What happens if Speediance goes out of business?

Unlike subscription-dependent systems, the Gym Monster 2 remains fully functional even without company support. The machine works offline for manual training modes. Your investment is protected because the core functionality doesn’t rely on cloud services.