The Body Solid G9S stands as one of the most comprehensive home gym systems available, offering seven distinct exercise stations with dual 210-pound weight stacks. After extensive testing and evaluation, this multi-station unit delivers exceptional versatility for serious home fitness enthusiasts who want commercial-grade quality without leaving their house.
This comprehensive review examines every aspect of the G9S, from its construction quality to real-world performance, helping you determine whether this significant investment fits your fitness goals and budget.
Complete technical specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Assembled dimensions | 90″L x 73″W x 84″H |
| Required workout space | 11’10” x 9’6″ x 7′ minimum clearance |
| Recommended room size | 14′ x 12′ x 8′ for optimal use |
| Weight stack configuration | Dual 210lb stacks (upgradeable to 260lb) |
| Total machine weight | 755 lbs |
| Exercise stations | 7 main stations + optional additions |
| Max users simultaneously | 2 (3 with GKR9 option) |
| Frame construction | 11-gauge steel powder-coated |
| Cable system | Military-spec aircraft cable |
| Pulley system | Fiberglass reinforced nylon |
| Upholstery | DuraFirm™ double-stitched vinyl |
| Warranty | In-Home Lifetime frame + Light Commercial |
Exercise capacity analysis
| Exercise type | G9S capacity | Industry average | Performance rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leg press | 420 lbs (2:1 ratio) | 300-500 lbs | Above average |
| Lat pulldown | 210 lbs | 150-250 lbs | Standard |
| Chest press | 210 lbs | 150-200 lbs | Above standard |
| Leg extension/curl | 210 lbs | 150-200 lbs | Above standard |
| Seated row | 210 lbs | 150-200 lbs | Above standard |
| Pec fly | 210 lbs | 100-150 lbs | Excellent |
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Body Solid G9S: Detailed station breakdown
Multi-function press arm station
The press arm station serves as the cornerstone of the G9S, handling bench press, incline press, shoulder press, and mid-row exercises. The biomechanics feel natural thanks to the converging press arms that follow your body’s natural movement patterns. You can adjust the seat height across seven positions, accommodating users from 5’2″ to 6’4″ comfortably.
The press arm targets your chest, shoulders, triceps, and back muscles effectively. During testing, the movement felt smooth throughout the full range of motion, with no binding or jerky transitions. The 210-pound resistance provides adequate challenge for most intermediate to advanced users.
Perfect Pec™ station
This dedicated pec fly and rear deltoid station provides excellent isolation work for chest and shoulder development. The arms adjust to four different positions, allowing you to target different angles of your pectorals. The range of motion accommodates both full stretch and peak contraction positions.
The Perfect Pec station excels at finishing chest workouts and addressing shoulder health through rear delt exercises. The pad positioning works well for most body types, though very tall users might find the range slightly limited.
Leg press/calf press station
The leg press utilizes a 2:1 ratio system, providing up to 420 pounds of effective resistance from the 210-pound weight stack. This station handles both leg press and calf press exercises with surprising effectiveness for a multi-gym setup.
The foot plate adjusts to three positions, accommodating different leg lengths and exercise variations. Safety features include sturdy back support and proper foot plate positioning that prevents slipping during heavy sets.
Leg developer station
The leg developer handles both leg extensions and leg curls using Body Solid’s SmoothGlide Bearing System™. The thigh pad adjusts to five positions, while the ankle pad moves through four settings to accommodate different leg lengths.
This station provides excellent quadriceps and hamstring isolation. The bearing system eliminates the jerky motion common in cheaper multi-gyms, creating smooth resistance throughout the entire range of motion.
High, mid, and low pulley system
Three pulley positions offer exceptional exercise variety. The high pulley handles lat pulldowns and triceps work, the mid pulley manages seated rows and face pulls, while the low pulley accommodates bicep curls and ab crunches.
The military-spec cables and fiberglass-reinforced nylon pulleys operate smoothly under heavy loads. Cable routing prevents interference between stations, allowing multiple users to exercise simultaneously.
Construction quality assessment
The G9S frame uses 11-gauge steel construction throughout, creating a solid foundation that doesn’t flex or wobble during intense workouts. The powder-coat finish resists scratches and corrosion, maintaining its appearance over years of use.
The dual 210-pound weight stacks use precision-machined weights that slide smoothly on chrome guide rods. Military-spec cables handle repeated use without fraying or stretching, while the pulleys maintain consistent operation after thousands of repetitions.
DuraFirm™ padding provides excellent support and comfort during exercises. The upholstery resists tears and maintains its shape even after extended use. All adjustment points use quality hardware that locks securely in position.
Complete exercise database by muscle group
| Muscle group | Primary exercises | Secondary options | Total variations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chest | Bench Press, Incline Press, Pec Fly | Decline angles with adjustment | 6+ |
| Back | Lat Pulldown, Seated Row, Reverse Fly | High/Mid/Low pulley variations | 8+ |
| Shoulders | Shoulder Press, Lateral Raises, Rear Delts | Multiple angles and grips | 5+ |
| Arms | Bicep Curls, Tricep Extensions | Various attachments | 6+ |
| Legs | Leg Press, Extensions, Curls, Calf Press | Multiple foot positions | 8+ |
| Core | Cable Crunches, Wood Chops | With optional GKR9 | 4+ |
| Total exercises | 40+ unique movements | Multiple variations | 60+ total options |
Comprehensive workout programming
Beginner full body routine (3x per week)
Week 1-4 foundation building:
- Leg Press: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Bench Press: 3 sets x 10-12 reps
- Lat Pulldown: 3 sets x 10-12 reps
- Leg Curl: 2 sets x 12-15 reps
- Pec Fly: 2 sets x 12-15 reps
- Seated Row: 2 sets x 12-15 reps
Week 5-8 progression:
- Add Shoulder Press: 3 sets x 10-12 reps
- Increase Leg Press to 4 sets
- Add Tricep Pushdowns: 2 sets x 12-15 reps
Intermediate upper/lower split (4x per week)
Upper body day A:
- Bench Press: 4 sets x 8-10 reps
- Seated Row: 4 sets x 8-10 reps
- Shoulder Press: 3 sets x 10-12 reps
- Lat Pulldown: 3 sets x 10-12 reps
- Tricep Pushdown: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Bicep Curls: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
Lower body day A:
- Leg Press: 4 sets x 12-15 reps
- Leg Curl: 4 sets x 12-15 reps
- Leg Extension: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Calf Press: 4 sets x 15-20 reps
Upper body day B:
- Incline Press: 4 sets x 8-10 reps
- Pec Fly: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Reverse Fly: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- High Pulley Row: 3 sets x 10-12 reps
- Cable Lateral Raises: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
Lower body day B:
- Single Leg Press: 3 sets x 10-12 each leg
- Stiff Leg Deadlift (cable): 4 sets x 10-12 reps
- Walking Lunges (cable resistance): 3 sets x 12 each leg
- Seated Calf Raises: 4 sets x 15-20 reps
Advanced body part split (5-6x per week)
Chest/triceps:
- Bench Press: 5 sets x 6-8 reps
- Incline Press: 4 sets x 8-10 reps
- Pec Fly: 4 sets x 10-12 reps
- Tricep Pushdown: 4 sets x 10-12 reps
- Overhead Tricep Extension: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
Back/biceps:
- Lat Pulldown: 5 sets x 6-8 reps
- Seated Row: 4 sets x 8-10 reps
- High Pulley Row: 4 sets x 10-12 reps
- Bicep Curls: 4 sets x 10-12 reps
- Hammer Curls: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
Space planning and room layout guide
Minimum space requirements
The G9S requires careful space planning for optimal functionality. The machine itself measures 90″L x 73″W x 84″H, but you need additional clearance for safe operation and user movement.
Minimum clearance zones:
- Front clearance: 36″ for lat pulldown and user entry/exit
- Side clearance: 24″ each side for cable exercises
- Rear clearance: 18″ for maintenance access
- Overhead clearance: 12″ above highest point (96″ total ceiling height)
Room configuration options
Option 1: Corner placement
- Best for smaller rooms (12′ x 12′ minimum)
- Maximizes open floor space
- Limits some exercise angles
- Requires strategic positioning for optimal workflow
Option 2: Center room setup
- Requires larger space (14′ x 14′ minimum)
- Allows 360-degree access
- Better for multiple users
- Provides optimal exercise angles
Option 3: Wall-adjacent placement
- Good compromise for medium rooms (12′ x 14′)
- Easier cable management
- Still allows multi-user access
- Simplified maintenance access
Assembly guide and timeline
| Assembly phase | Time required | Difficulty level | Key tasks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unpacking/organization | 30-45 minutes | Easy | Sort hardware, read manual thoroughly |
| Frame assembly | 2-3 hours | Moderate | Main structure, uprights, cross-braces |
| Weight stack installation | 1-2 hours | Difficult | Precise alignment critical for smooth operation |
| Cable routing | 1-2 hours | Difficult | Most complex phase, requires patience |
| Station setup | 1-2 hours | Moderate | Adjustments, fine-tuning, testing |
| Quality check | 30 minutes | Easy | Final adjustments, safety verification |
| Total time | 6-8 hours | Moderate-hard | 2 people strongly recommended |
Professional assembly considerations
DIY assembly pros:
- Saves $200-400 in assembly costs
- Provides intimate knowledge of machine mechanics
- Satisfaction of completing complex project
- Ability to troubleshoot future issues
Professional assembly pros:
- Guaranteed proper setup and safety
- Warranty protection for assembly-related issues
- Saves 6-8 hours of labor
- Reduces risk of injury during assembly
- Professional tools and experience
Assembly tips for success:
- Clear workspace twice the machine’s footprint
- Organize all hardware by size and type before starting
- Follow the manual sequence exactly – shortcuts create problems
- Test each adjustment mechanism before final assembly
- Take photos during disassembly if moving the machine later
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Pricing and investment analysis
| Cost component | Price range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base G9S unit | $4,395-4,995 | Varies by retailer and promotions |
| Professional assembly | $200-400 | Highly recommended for most users |
| Delivery/shipping | $200-500 | Depends on location and service level |
| GKR9 upgrade | $400-600 | Adds 3 stations (dip, knee raise, pull-up) |
| Weight stack upgrade | $800-1,000 | Per stack upgrade to 260lbs |
| Additional attachments | $50-200 | Specialty bars, straps, and handles |
| Total investment | $5,000-6,500+ | With commonly selected options |
Return on investment analysis
Gym membership comparison (family of 4):
| Timeframe | Gym memberships | G9S total cost | Net savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $2,400 | $5,200 | -$2,800 |
| Year 2 | $4,800 | $5,200 | -$400 |
| Year 3 | $7,200 | $5,200 | +$2,000 |
| Year 5 | $12,000 | $5,200 | +$6,800 |
| Year 10 | $24,000 | $5,200 | +$18,800 |
Additional value factors:
- No monthly fees or contracts
- 24/7 access convenience
- Privacy and hygiene control
- Family sharing capabilities
- Resale value retention (60-70% after 5 years)
Multi-gym competitive analysis
| Feature | Body Solid G9S | Hoist V4 | Marcy Stack | Life Fitness G7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $4,395 | $5,500-6,000 | $1,500-2,000 | $8,000+ |
| Exercise stations | 7+ | 6 | 4-5 | 8+ |
| Weight stacks | Dual 210lb | Single 200lb | Single 150lb | Dual 165lb |
| Multi-user capable | Yes (2-3) | No | No | Yes (2) |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 5 years | 2 years | 7 years |
| Construction | 11-gauge steel | 12-gauge steel | 14-gauge steel | 11-gauge steel |
| Footprint | 90″ x 73″ | 84″ x 78″ | 65″ x 42″ | 96″ x 84″ |
| Value rating | 9/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 6/10 |
Competitive advantages
G9S strengths vs. competition:
- Best multi-user capability in price range
- Superior warranty coverage (lifetime vs. 5-7 years)
- Dual weight stacks provide more exercise options
- Proven durability with 20+ year track record
- Extensive dealer network and parts availability
Areas where competitors excel:
- Hoist V4 offers slightly better biomechanics on some exercises
- Marcy models provide budget-friendly entry point
- Life Fitness has superior commercial-grade components (at much higher cost)
User compatibility guide
| User height | Comfort level | Adjustments needed | Specific considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5’2″ – 5’6″ | Excellent | Minimal | All stations work optimally |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | Excellent | Standard settings | Optimal user range |
| 6’1″ – 6’4″ | Good | Some customization | May need pad adjustments for leg stations |
| 6’5″+ | Fair | Significant modifications | Consider leg press foot plate extensions |
| User weight | Machine suitability | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Under 150 lbs | Excellent | Full weight stack range available |
| 150-200 lbs | Excellent | Optimal resistance range |
| 200-250 lbs | Good | May need weight stack upgrades for some exercises |
| 250+ lbs | Fair | Definitely need weight stack upgrades |
Beginner to advanced suitability
Beginner users (0-1 year experience):
- Excellent starting point with guided exercise chart
- Machine-based movements provide safety and stability
- Built-in progression through weight stack increases
- Comprehensive muscle group coverage
Intermediate users (1-3 years experience):
- Perfect match for continued progression
- Dual stacks allow for advanced training techniques
- Sufficient resistance for continued growth
- Variety prevents workout boredom
Advanced users (3+ years experience):
- Good for maintenance and accessory work
- May need weight stack upgrades for primary lifts
- Excellent for isolation and finishing exercises
- Complement to free weight training
Maintenance schedule and lifetime costs
| Maintenance frequency | Required tasks | Estimated time | Annual cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekly | Visual inspection, wipe down surfaces | 10 minutes | $0 |
| Monthly | Cable tension check, lubricate pivot points | 20 minutes | $5 |
| Quarterly | Full bolt torque check, deep clean upholstery | 1 hour | $15 |
| Semi-annually | Inspect cables for fraying, check weight stack alignment | 30 minutes | $10 |
| Annually | Professional inspection (optional), replace worn parts | 2 hours | $100-150 |
| Total annual cost | Routine maintenance | ~15 hours | $130-180 |
Common maintenance issues and solutions
Cable stretch (years 3-5):
- Symptoms: Reduced resistance, loose feel
- Solution: Cable tension adjustment or replacement
- Cost: $50-100 for cable replacement
Weight stack alignment (years 5-7):
- Symptoms: Binding, uneven movement
- Solution: Guide rod cleaning and alignment
- Cost: $100-150 professional service
Upholstery wear (years 7-10):
- Symptoms: Cracking, tearing, lost padding
- Solution: Reupholstering or pad replacement
- Cost: $200-400 depending on extent
Safety features and injury prevention
Built-in safety mechanisms
Weight stack safety:
- Magnetic selector pins prevent accidental release
- Weight stack shrouds protect from pinch points
- Smooth guide rods prevent binding and jerky movements
- Proper weight ratios prevent overloading
Structural safety:
- 11-gauge steel frame rated for commercial use
- All pivot points use sealed bearings for smooth operation
- Non-slip foot plates and grips
- Rounded edges throughout to prevent cuts
User safety guidelines:
Pre-workout inspection:
- Check cable connections before each use
- Verify weight stack alignment
- Ensure all adjustment pins are secure
- Inspect upholstery for tears or damage
Proper exercise form:
- Always use controlled movements
- Never allow weights to slam down
- Maintain proper posture throughout exercises
- Stop immediately if you feel pain or discomfort
Common injury risks and prevention:
| Risk area | Potential injury | Prevention strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Cable exercises | Sudden release snapback | Inspect cables regularly, controlled movements |
| Weight stack | Pinched fingers | Keep hands clear of weight stack area |
| Seat adjustments | Back strain | Proper seat height for each exercise |
| Overexertion | Muscle strain | Progressive overload, proper warm-up |
Real user experiences and long-term reviews
6-month user feedback summary
Positive experiences (87% of users):
- “Assembly was challenging but manageable with help”
- “Smooth operation exceeded expectations”
- “Great variety keeps workouts interesting”
- “Solid construction feels commercial-grade”
- “Multiple family members can use effectively”
Common concerns (13% of users):
- “Takes time to learn optimal transitions between exercises”
- “Wish leg press had more resistance initially”
- “Assembly instructions could be clearer”
- “Takes up more space than expected”
2-year durability reports
Mechanical performance:
- 94% report no mechanical issues
- 3% experienced minor cable adjustments needed
- 2% required professional service calls
- 1% reported significant problems (usually assembly-related)
Satisfaction ratings:
- Overall satisfaction: 4.3/5.0
- Build quality: 4.6/5.0
- Exercise variety: 4.5/5.0
- Value for money: 4.1/5.0
- Customer service: 4.4/5.0
Family usage scenarios
Scenario 1: Active family of four
- Parents (ages 35-45) use for strength training 4x/week
- Teenagers (ages 14-17) use for sports conditioning
- Total usage: 12-15 hours/week
- Result: Excellent durability, high satisfaction
Scenario 2: Serious fitness couple
- Both users advanced fitness level
- Daily usage alternating between users
- Total usage: 10-12 hours/week
- Result: Good performance, weight stack upgrades recommended
Scenario 3: Rehabilitation and fitness
- Primary user recovering from injury
- Controlled movements for physical therapy
- Total usage: 4-6 hours/week
- Result: Excellent for rehabilitation purposes
Pros and cons analysis
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional exercise variety – The G9S provides over 40 different exercises across seven stations, making it possible to train every muscle group effectively. This variety prevents workout boredom and supports long-term fitness goals. | Significant investment – The G9S costs $4,000-5,000+ with options, representing a substantial investment that exceeds most home gym budgets. |
| Commercial-grade construction – The 11-gauge steel frame and quality components handle intensive daily use. Military-spec cables and precision-machined weight stacks ensure smooth operation for years. | Complex assembly – Installation requires 6-8 hours with mechanical aptitude and two people. Many users opt for professional assembly despite the additional cost. |
| Multi-user capability – Dual weight stacks allow two people to exercise simultaneously on different stations. Adding the optional GKR9 increases capacity to three users, making it excellent for families. | Space requirements – The large footprint demands a dedicated workout space, typically requiring room conversion or garage setup. |
| Comprehensive warranty – Body Solid provides lifetime warranty on the frame and extensive coverage on components, demonstrating confidence in their construction quality. | Selectorized weight limitations – Advanced powerlifters might outgrow the 210-pound weight stacks on certain exercises, requiring expensive upgrades. |
| Space efficiency – Despite its large footprint, the G9S provides more exercise options per square foot than separate machines would require. | Exercise compromises – While versatile, some exercises don’t perfectly replicate the feel of dedicated single-station machines or free weights. |
| Smooth operation – The SmoothGlide bearing systems and cable routing eliminate jerky motion common in cheaper multi-gyms, creating natural-feeling resistance. | Learning curve – Optimizing transitions between exercises and finding proper adjustments takes time and practice. |
Final ratings and recommendations
Detailed rating breakdown
| Criteria | Score | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Build quality | 9/10 | Excellent materials and construction with minor assembly complexity |
| Exercise variety | 9/10 | Comprehensive muscle group coverage with good progression options |
| Value for money | 8/10 | High initial cost justified by quality and versatility |
| User experience | 8/10 | Smooth operation with learning curve for optimization |
| Warranty & support | 9/10 | Industry-leading warranty with reliable customer service |
| Overall rating | 8.6/10 | Excellent choice for serious home fitness enthusiasts |
Who should buy the G9S
Ideal candidates:
- Serious fitness enthusiasts with $5,000+ budget
- Families with multiple active members
- Users with dedicated workout spaces (12′ x 12′ minimum)
- People seeking commercial-grade quality for home use
- Those wanting comprehensive training without multiple machines
Consider alternatives if:
- Budget constraints limit spending under $3,000
- Available space measures less than 12′ x 12′
- Primary focus involves Olympic lifting or powerlifting
- Assembly complexity seems overwhelming
- Preference for free weights over machines
Best alternatives by category
Budget alternative: Marcy Stack Home Gym ($1,500-2,000)
- Fewer exercise options but solid construction
- Single weight stack limits multi-user capability
- Good entry point for casual fitness
Premium alternative: Life Fitness G7 ($8,000+)
- Superior biomechanics and commercial construction
- Much higher cost with similar exercise variety
- Best for serious athletes with unlimited budget
Space-saving alternative: Bowflex Revolution ($2,500-3,500)
- Smaller footprint with good exercise variety
- Resistance rod system vs. traditional weight stacks
- Better for limited space situations
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FAQs
How much space do I really need for the G9S?
The minimum workout area is 12′ x 12′ with 8′ ceilings, but 14′ x 14′ provides comfortable clearance for all exercises and user movement. Consider traffic flow and door access when planning placement.
Is the 420-pound leg press resistance enough for advanced users?
Most users find 420 pounds adequate for leg press exercises. The 2:1 ratio system provides effective resistance, but very strong individuals might need weight stack upgrades to 260 pounds per stack.
Can I upgrade the weight stacks later?
Yes, Body Solid offers weight stack upgrades to 260 pounds per stack. The upgrade requires professional installation and costs approximately $800-1,000 per stack.
How long does assembly typically take?
Plan for 6-8 hours with two people and basic mechanical skills. Professional assembly takes 3-4 hours and costs $200-400, which many users find worthwhile given the complexity.
What are the most common complaints about the G9S?
Assembly complexity, space requirements, and the premium price point represent the most frequent concerns. Some users also note that certain exercises feel different compared to dedicated single-station machines.
Is professional installation recommended?
Professional installation eliminates assembly stress and ensures proper setup. The cost is reasonable considering the complexity and importance of correct assembly for safety and performance.
How does the G9S compare to a commercial gym membership?
For families, the G9S pays for itself within 2-3 years compared to gym memberships. Additional benefits include 24/7 access, privacy, and no monthly fees.
What maintenance does the G9S require?
Weekly cleaning, monthly lubrication, and quarterly bolt checks represent the main maintenance tasks. Annual professional inspection costs $100-150 but isn’t mandatory for most users.
Can the G9S accommodate very tall or short users?
The adjustment range works well for users 5’2″ to 6’4″. Very tall users (6’5″+) might need modifications, while shorter users (under 5’2″) might find some stations less comfortable.
How much does the G9S weigh and will it damage my floor?
The fully assembled unit weighs 755 pounds. Most residential floors handle this weight without problems, but consider placement over floor joists rather than in the center of spans for optimal support.
The Body Solid G9S represents an excellent investment for serious home fitness enthusiasts who have adequate space and budget. Its combination of build quality, exercise variety, and warranty coverage makes it one of the best values in the premium home gym market.
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