Wanted to say thanks to Powertec for allowing and encouraging a honest review. I could have spent more time on the value of the bench itself with attachments, but as you can see the video time starting running. All that to say though, the powertec really won out for me personally with how well the bench integrated with the lever gym as well as the potential for using their other attachments.
I bought the GMWD because of your original review. I love it and you can’t beat the price. After seeing this comparison I’m even more convinced that I made the right choice.
Great summary and review! I saw your other video on the GMWD. I ended up going with the Powertec a few months ago because of the versatility of the bench. Being able to lock in to the gym for stability and even placement is key. Being able to adjust the seat (4 settings) and also slide the bench forward and back (10 settings) is great.
I owned the Powertec Levergym for a couple years and really liked it! I did an in-depth review also (it was one of my first videos). I haven't tried the GHWD so I'm kinda partial to Powertec if I had to buy one again. Great job on the comparison 👏
Mike, great review! I own a few Powertec pieces and they are nice products. I own the Workbench Multi-press and the Powertec Leg Press. They’re great home gym equipment and I have had them for six years. The Workbench Lever-gym is a 12 gauge steel gym that is heavier than the GMWD Lever-gym that is a 14 gauge steel gym. I enjoyed how you left it up to the potential buyer to decide which gym to get. Both gyms offer the ability to perform quality exercises but the Powertec has a tiny advantage because of the gauge steel used to make it stronger and that the bench can be connected to the unit. However, GMWD design of making base longer offers better stability than the Powertec. I also like that there is more cable length to give you a better lat pull down experience. Overall both gyms has their pros and cons and you can’t go wrong with either one. The Powertec is pretty much like the Total Gym where you can expand exercise options by acquiring additional Workbench attachments for the unit. The GMWD provides you with what you need to get you through your workouts without having to spend additional funds. It’s a tough choice to decide who is the winner as I guess it all depends on your budget and overall goals in using a lever-gym.
Awesome comment and excellent points about the gauge steel. You're also dead on about the attachments business model parallel with TG. That is for sure something people need to consider on if they'll even use the attachments. Especially these as they can take up a lot of space.
Great comparison, a deal breaker can be the customer service and being able to get replacement parts easily. I am also waiting for the Flexicon Machine to come out. I also use the bodylastics bands in my workouts.
I gave up my beloved Powertec about a decade ago, but still miss it. Paid around $750 at the time brand new (mine was gray). Looks like it has changed a bit over the years, but still the OG.
@@hybridresistance Mostly, they would change how the bench attached every few years. Mine was permanently connected to it, and "pivoted" out of the way for squats. Bad part was you couldn't use the bench as a separate utility bench. Also, the extra level holes were not present. Little stuff like that. Overall, basically the same machine though.
Well done for the review. You put a lot of detail and effort into this and it's a very good review. So, much appreciated. Now, I can't speak for the BodySolid. But, I do have the Powertec. So, regarding some of the negatives, you can drill a hole through the bar in the same place the BodySolid has one, so you can lock the arms high enough for pullups, which is what I did. You can also get a fuller range of motion on the cable for tricep pull-down if you step closer to the machine - even facing away from the machine if needed. The next negative point you made with the Powertec was the unsteady movement. I had that when I first used it. But, how I got around that was, I fully stacked my 20kg weights on each side which made it pretty solid. Try it and you'll see the difference. But, again, well done for a good in-depth comparison review
@hybridresistance You're very welcome, buddy. I forgot to also say, with regards to the slight rocking, if you sit it on some foam matting, and obviously have it weighted down to the hilt, as I previously recommended, any minimal movement will be absorbed by the foam mats. And, one last thing. You can really improve the squat movement by purchasing some angled steel wedges. They're only around £35 in the UK (approx $45), and they bring you a lot closer to the feel of a squat machine as they improve the range of motion and you can position them in the ideal place for your requirement which will enable you to lift heavier without adding stress on your back, knees and hips. They are well worth the small investment as they really do change what is a standard squat that feels it's in need of something more, to one that feels more like a squat station
I am typing this as I watch the video, and I just noticed @3:30 you mention that base plate on the Powertec. That makes a big difference to the stability of the machine when you are doing specific movements. For example, if you are squatting or doing a pressing movement with bands attached, then the resistance from heavy bands could actually lift the feet of the machine and tilt the entire machine backwards. With that base plate, you are either standing on the plate or the bench is resting on it, preventing the machine from lifting up no matter how much band tension there is (as one example). @10:30 you'll notice the Powertec has a built in "rack" for the lat pull bar. That thing is actually heavy duty enough that it can be used to do pullups with the lat pull bar while it is in that cradle, which also means you have more variety for hand placement. (Okay, right as I finished typing that, I see that you mentioned it @11:00) @11:30 Powertec must have updated the design to being a two piece backbone in order to make shipping easier (similar to the Amazon competitors) because on my old Powertec stuff, that backbone was a single piece (meaning it could not shift like that). I think I even mentioned that in your video about the GMWD. @14:20 I know I am sounding like a broken record, but my old Powertec stuff always had the 2" bar sleeves for the weight tree. This must be another "new" thing they are doing. I think the larger base of the GMWD is definitely an advantage. It is just more stable. I guess I never noticed that the Powertec doesn't have "feet" since I routinely use a level and wedges under each corner of any of my machines to make sure that the machines themselves are as level as possible. But that is definitely a big deal. I can actually see several little things I think I prefer on the GMWD but overall the Powertec is a great ecosystem to get into. I am a bit disappointed at some of the changes I am seeing with Powertec, though. Makes it feel a bit less premium.
Thank brother as always for sharing that valuable insight. I knew you'd have some passion in this topic being a longtime lever gym user. It's definitely a competitive market now with these companies trying to out do or improve upon shortcomings or existing products. I can sympathize with both sides. Some of those powertec attachments look awesome like that leg press.
Thank you for this video! I have been thinking of buying a lever gym and it literally came down to these two units. I kept watching videos, trying to decide if it is worth paying more for powertec. It still seems, for those of us with very tight budget, GMWD is a way to go! I liked your previous videos on GMWD, which show how it can be a very decent unit for a home gym setup. Again, I really appreciate the video!
@@timetravelerify i like it. I have not seen a Powertec so can’t really compare them. It has a bigger footprint than i expected but it works well. I’m not a fan of the straight bar. Just a cheap bar with bolts you screw in on the ends.
Something you could have mentioned to give the upper hand to gmwd is ,you could buy the machine without the bench and buy a powertec bench second hand to use the attachments etc
Yes, that is a great point. I thought I casually mentioned that or at least addressed that the powertec comes standard with options not to include the bench, but I could be wrong on that.
I bought the powertec because I needed something more compact. Haven't noticed any wobble when I have weight plates on. And the fact that the arms are closer makes it a huge win. Only con I've seen is the back arm is too short. Stuff like triceps push downs, face pulls and bicep curls don't feel good because of the short range of motion. But lat pulldowns and rows feel great. Needed to place a couple of dumbbells on the floor for the cable row and sit on a 5 inch mat to feel higher up but not an issue.
I have both in a cabin and a house. I'd say go gmwd for $750 vs powertec $1400. but get the powertec bench seperate that can take the powertec bench attachment accessories .
I'm with you on that as the bench + accessories are definitely great with the powertec. Of course I really appreciate the ability to hook the bench into the lever gym.
For people who live in an apartment and has a problem with space or money, many of the exercises that are done on these machines can be very well improvised with two olympic bars in a landmine version (higher or lower position) and a worker's pulley roller attached to the ceiling or wall low and high for other pulling exercises or Swedish ladder which you can hang whatever you want and also resistance bands. Thanks for the video.
Bought the GMWD incline bench press. Amazon had it on sale for $599, and it’s worth every penny. Well constructed, multiple incline, and seating adjustments. Independent arms with 4-5 different grips , and 2 separate plate holders on each side of the bench. GMWD makes some nice equipment for a reasonable price.
@@hybridresistance I’m not exaggerating when I say that the incline bench press that GMWD manufacturers is institutional grade (college , police-fire dept.) or even professional gym grade equipment. Heavy duty steel, no flexing when loaded with plates, and shock absorbers built into the each arm where the bars sit. Sturdy piece of equipment, and built better than Body Solid equipment (I have mostly Body Solid equipment in my basement gym) Great video Sir !👏👏🦾
Thanks Jaleesa. I will look into that! Got another garage gym reviewer potentially doing an interview soon. Let me know what you think would be a good topic and or some questions you want to hear.
Ironmaster equipment is amazing! I have most of their products, including super bench pro, DB’s and the IM2000 which was my preference over a powertec levergym when I was starting out my home gym. Ironmaster is really great kit for a home gym, especially if short on space.
I realize due to the size and cost it isn't ideal to test these, but do you have experience/comments/advice on the Body-Solid Leverage Gyms, the GLGS100P4 (smaller traditional one) and SBL460P4 (enormous 3-sided chimera for multiple people that would eat an entire room/garage) ? Keep up the great work :D
Thanks Steve. Unfortunately I haven't used the body solid lever gym. Only problem with those is that the arms can't move individually. That big machine looks similar to the Powertec's multi gym, which you're right is ginormous. I think Ptec's would be a better choice for those as well.
I have a Sparta that I was able to get off Amazon for a little over 600. It’s very similar and works really nice if anyone is in the market for a leverage gym. Great comparison video!
Thank you. Let me know what you want to see featured. I think it's going to be a good comparison, but got to keep in mind you're paying more for the qtPro, but it definitely shows in the build quality for sure. That thing will last a lifetime
Yeah the Pro2 is more of a premium/commercial rated product but it’ll be nice for the public to see the differences in your videos. How are you getting on with the pull-down attachment for the Pro2? I see they’ve made improvements to the way you load it and should be ready soon for release.
@@powerplanthomegym The lat pull is actually doing great, but the new alteration they have planned will be much better. I definitely will cover that in my new video.
I own an older Powertec 3 station system now and love it but ive bent the frame and thinking about buying Body-Solid 3 station system. Not sure of the ratings but im at the limits with the Powertec anyhow...thoughts?
I'm not familiar with those, but I'd be thinking if for the money and versatility, you'd be better off with a creating your own set of stations with key pieces.
I’m definitely in the market between these two great review first off. Just wondering how if there’s any differences between the core exercises i.e. bench press squad does one feel better than the other
It's very slight, but I prefer the feel of the powertec and also like being close to the machine to be able to rack and un-rack with the pin mid set. With that said the gmwd is more solid and doesn't shake. Stay tuned for tomorrow's video for another contender and comparison to the powertec.
I greatly prefer 1 inch horns for plate storage. It's easier to get plates on and off and it's not like they're going anywhere anyways unless I'm pulling them off.
Generally the further the weight is from the point of rotation, the harder. I don't know if one feels heavier or lighter than the other, but the powertec just feels like a slightly better groove.
On Amazon, the GMWD is listed as supporting a max weight of 250 pounds where Powertec lists their max weight at 500 pounds, which is double that. Does the GMWD unit you have state a max weight in the manual or on the box?
On the powertec it's showing max weight of 500 combined so I think they're the same. To me the GMWD feel way more capable of handling heavier loads than the powertec. The amazon listing for the GMWD has a pretty decent description of the overall weight capacity amzn.to/3Re6OdL
Did you have a chance to use the machines some more? Any changes in opinion? Do you think that GMWD would be a solid piece of equipment for long term use for a home gym, or should one invest into powertec, as a more established brand?
Yes, I actually did giveaway my gmwd to a friend. Really most of the pros / cons still apply and you could still argue the gmwd wins out in some areas. Keeping the powertec for me was really about being closer to the machine, being able to rack/unrack mid set with the pin, and potentially trying out some of the powertec attachments.
I was thinking the same. Powertec has attachments, but for $1500 (what powertec costs without attachments) you can buy GMWD leverage gym, leg extension machine, and cable crossover station!
@@powerplanthomegym if you have some link or picture that show this please post it. Sorry i have seen It on Istagram now...innovative product great Atx!
They need to tweak this machine such that you don't have to start the bench-press and squat at the bottom of the exercise. It's a great way to tear yourself up both at the beginning and the end of the exercise.
I’ve narrowed down my home gym build to either the Powertec line or Major Fitness B52 power rack/smith machine. I know they’re both fairly different but it’s the ecosystem of both that interest me.
Hi Mike. Thank you for another great video. I have the Powertec lever gym. I really enjoy it. I have learned alot of hacks for the lever gym from Home Gym Hacks and reviews channel. Take a look when you get a chance. Pretty good stuff
I actually a video answering this somewhat here ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-Vx4mismdMoM.html But (like everything) they each have their own pros and cons. I'd say ones better than the other for certain things. Heavy weight with safety a lever gym wins but a single joint changing weight on the fly a speediance.
No please do another research for this peace of equipement. Atx multi Gym expecially the new version 2024 Is wonderful multi station all you need in an home Gym at best quality and with possibilty of other option! Indipendent lat machine with High and low pulley, indipendent leverage squat/calf, indipendent leverage machine for chest shoulder with better biomeccanhic , and now with a tower where you also can attach a lot of other option like belt squat and si many...and the bench with all option like leg ext/curl the ab option the preacher curl the pec fly the dip triceps option.... Please find It because Is wonderful best to have all in One!@@hybridresistance
Powertec uses heavier gauge steel at 11 and 12 gauge, has far superior parts, pads, paint, welds, pulleys, pins, cables, nuts, bolts, washers, bushings, bearings, etc. GMWD uses much thinner 14 gauge steel and lower / cheaper quality components throughout. As far as quality goes, Powertec is in a completely different league to GMWD. GMWD is along the lines of what you find in big box stores like Dick's, Academy Sports, etc.
I have to check again but I did a recent video where I found a reddit post saying they use something like 12 gauge. I can't find the gauge on the website. Having had both next to me, honestly the GMWD felt like the heavier built machine. And for the record, I gave away my gmwd and kept the powertec, so definitely not trying to defend gmwd. I also have an affiliate with powertec and not gmwd.
@@PenetrationStation I'm not saying it's commercial quality by any means. Simply speaking about that one machine compared to that powertec. Which from what people have told me is a different machine compared to the older powertecs. I'm sure you know way more about that stuff than me, but the powertec literally can bob back and forth when I start to squat with it.
@@hybridresistance 14 gauge 0.080" 2.0mm. They actually have it listed on Amazon. You are not really comparing apples to apples. How does it bob back and forth when you are standing on the foot plate?
@@PenetrationStation Thanks for posting that! Here's a start of a clip of the shakiness I saw with the powertec. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-AbQaylVL5B4.htmlsi=_PYjkGBT6getdpgk&t=285
