The Body-Solid G9S: Two Weight Stacks, Infinite Possibilities
Looking for a commercial-grade home gym that can accommodate multiple users? The Body-Solid G9S might be what you need. This powerhouse can accommodate up to three people working out simultaneously, perfect for families or small group training sessions.
At its heart, engineers designed the G9S for serious strength training. The multi-function Press Arm Station is a standout feature, letting you tackle everything from bench presses to shoulder presses. Whether you’re 5’2″ or 6’4″, the fully adjustable design ensures you’ll find your perfect fit and range of motion.
The press arm system shines when it comes to chest and shoulder workouts. Its multi-grip design means you can switch up your hand positions to target different muscle groups – something you’d typically only find in professional gyms.
The Perfect Pec Station isn’t just another butterfly machine. Each arm moves independently, so you can focus on balancing any strength differences between your left and right sides. The clever cam design ensures consistent resistance throughout your movement, helping you build stronger, more defined chest muscles.
Here’s where things get interesting: the Leg Press/Calf Press Station uses a 2:1 weight ratio, effectively turning your weights into double the resistance. In real terms? You’re looking at leg press capacity of up to 420 pounds. The foot plate features tank-like construction, with non-slip rubber coating and heavy-duty steel construction that won’t budge even during your most intense sets.
Learn more in my complete review below!
Product: Body-Solid G9S Home Gym
Price: For a great deal on this gym, merely go here on Amazon
Warranty: Lifetime in-home for as long as you own the equipment (see light-commercial warranty below)
My rating: 9.8/10
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Affiliate Program participant, I earn commissions on purchases made through links in this post. Full disclosure
Details and Specifications
- Dimensions: 89”L x 72”W x 84”H (226 cm x 183 cm x 213.4 cm)
- 2″ x 4″, 11-gauge mainframe construction.
- Product Weight: 964 lbs
- It has a traditional press bar.
- The leg developer station features the SmoothGlide Bearing System™.
- Self-aligning, contoured leg extension cuffs.
- Perfect Pec™ station.
- Adjustable seat posts for quick, smooth adjustment and proper body positioning.
- It features two 210 lbs (95kg) selectorized weight stacks.
- DuraFirm™ pads with lumbar support.
- 2,200 lbs tension strength, military spec, steel aircraft cables.
- 4½” pulleys are impact-resistant fiberglass reinforced nylon with precision machined steel ball bearings.
- It includes a Leg Press / Calf Press station with a 2:1 ratio for maximum resistance of 420 lbs.
- Light Commercial Warranty: Lifetime Warranty on Frames, welds, weight plates, and guide rods; 2 Years on Pulleys, bushings, bearings, and hardware; 1 Year on cables, upholstery, grips, and all other components.
- It comes with an in-home lifetime warranty for personal use. Pads, pulleys, cables, frames.
Guide to the Body-Solid G9S Home Gym Frame: Built Like a Tank
If you’re in the market for a serious home gym that can withstand years of intense workouts, the Body-Solid G9S deserves your attention. Today, we’re diving deep into what makes this powerhouse of fitness equipment a standout choice regarding construction and durability.
The heart of any gym equipment lies in its frame, and the G9S doesn’t disappoint. The manufacturer uses 2″ x 4″, 11-gauge mainframe construction to create a beast that delivers maximum strength and stability. But what does that mean for you? Think commercial-gym quality in your home – the stability that doesn’t wobble or shake, even during your most intense sets.
Before you get too excited, let’s talk space requirements. The G9S measures 89 inches in length, 72 inches in width, and 84 inches in height. You’ll want to ensure your workout area can comfortably accommodate these dimensions, with some extra room for movement.
The heart of this system lies in its dual weight stack setup. With two independent 210-pound weight stacks (upgradeable to 260 pounds each), you’re looking at serious muscle-building potential. The best part? These stacks work independently, meaning you can do different exercises without constantly adjusting weights or waiting between sets.
The attention to detail extends to every component. The machine features military-spec steel aircraft cables with swiveling ends, rated for 2,200 pounds of tension strength. That’s the kind of durability that ensures smooth, reliable operation workout after workout, year after year.
The Body-Solid G9S is a testament to what happens when robust engineering meets thoughtful design. Its industrial-strength frame construction, premium components, and proven durability make it a solid choice for anyone serious about creating a lasting home gym setup.
Remember: A home gym is only as good as its foundation; with the G9S, that foundation is rock solid.
Body-Solid G9S Workout Stations: Your All-in-One Home Gym Solution
Ever wondered what makes a premium home gym genuinely versatile? The Body-Solid G9S has six stations designed to target specific muscle groups. Let’s break down each workout station and discover how this powerhouse machine can transform your home workouts.
Press Arm Station: Your Upper Body Command Center
The multi-function Press Arm Station is the G9S’s crown jewel, offering four essential exercises in one spot:
- Traditional bench press for building chest strength
- Incline press for upper chest development
- Shoulder press for deltoid definition
- Chest-supported mid-row for back muscles
This station’s natural range of motion and adjustable settings make it unique. No need to worry about stabilizing free weights—the guided motion helps you maintain perfect form throughout each exercise.
The Perfect Pec™ Station: A Deep Dive into the G9S’s Chest Developer
The G9S’s Pec Dec station has computer-designed, dual-overhead variable resistance cams that allow each arm to operate independently. This independent movement is crucial because it:
- Allows you to correct muscle imbalances
- Enables unilateral training for rehabilitation
- Ensures equal resistance throughout the movement
- Prevents more substantial side compensation
The station’s design prioritizes both effectiveness and comfort. With high-density padding and ergonomic positioning, you can focus on your chest workout without discomfort. The station features:
- Thick, comfortable arm pads
- Proper biomechanical alignment
- Smooth cam operation
- Stable support throughout the movement
The Lat Station: A Complete Guide to the G9S’s Back Builder
When building a strong, defined back, the lat station on the Body-Solid G9S stands out as a premium feature. Let’s dive into what makes this station a cornerstone of back development.
Engineers designed the lat pulldown/high pulley station to increase the size, strength, and endurance of your back, shoulder, and triceps muscles. Its unique easy-access hold-down design sets it apart, which ensures proper form throughout your movements.
The station comes fully equipped with professional-grade accessories:
- A revolving lat bar for wide-grip pulldowns
- A revolving straight bar for close-grip variations
- An ankle strap for standing cable work
- An ab/triceps strap for additional exercise options
Whether you’re looking to build a wider back, increase pulling strength, or improve overall upper body development, this station delivers professional-level results in the comfort of your home gym.
The Leg Press/Calf Press Station: Powerhouse of the G9S
Regarding lower body development, the Leg Press/Calf Press Station on the Body-Solid G9S is a game-changer. Let’s explore what makes this station a standout feature for serious leg training.
Here’s where things get interesting. The leg press station operates on a 2:1 weight ratio, doubling your weight stack capacity to 420 pounds. Therefore, you can:
- Perform heavy leg presses for quad development
- Target your calves with dedicated calf press movements
- Adjust the back pad for perfect positioning
- Train legs with intensity that rivals commercial gym equipment
The station’s engineering focuses on both performance and safety:
- Advanced design that reduces spinal compression
- Adjustable back pad with two-position press plate
- Extra large, extra wide, non-slip rubber-covered press plate
- Pivoting press plate that rotates both forward and downward to target thighs, hamstrings, and glutes
To maximize your results on the Leg Press/Calf Press Station:
- Use the adjustable back pad to find your optimal position
- Experiment with foot placement for different muscle emphasis
- Take advantage of the full range of motion
- Incorporate both heavy and high-rep training
- Don’t forget to utilize the calf press feature
With its impressive 420-pound leg press capacity, advanced design features, and versatile functionality, this station delivers everything needed for comprehensive lower body development.
The Mid-Pulley Station: Versatility Meets Precision in the G9S Home Gym
The mid-pulley station on the Body-Solid G9S is a game-changer for functional training and core development. It isn’t just another cable station—it’s a multi-purpose powerhouse designed to transform your workout experience.
No more sitting on the floor for rowing exercises – the G9S mid-row handles offer an exhilarating mid and lower back workout that increases flexibility, builds strength, and relieves lower back stress.
The station’s design focuses on:
- Chest-supported positioning to protect your lower back
- Multiple grip positions for targeting different back muscles
- Comfortable padding that keeps you stable throughout movements
- Perfect angle for maximum back muscle engagement
This mid-pulley station allows for a range of core exercises, including ab crunches, using the weight stack for added resistance and versatility.
Your exercise options include:
- Mid-row variations
- Core rotational movements
- Tricep extensions
- Bicep curls
- Ab crunches
- Shoulder lateral raises
- Low cable crossovers
The Functional Training Station: Unleashing Versatility in the G9S Home Gym
The functional training station on the Body-Solid G9S is more than just a cable system – it’s a gateway to unlimited workout possibilities. This station transforms your home gym into a comprehensive training center that rivals professional fitness facilities.
This versatile station utilizes the dual weight stacks for:
- Cable crossovers for chest definition
- Tricep pushdowns for arm development
- Face pulls for rear deltoid work
- Low-to-high woodchops for rotational core strength
The functional training station offers an incredible range of exercises:
Low pulley position perfect for:
- Seated rows
- Bicep curls
- Standing leg curls
- Cable crossovers
High pulley exercises including:
- Tricep pushdowns
- Lat pulldowns
- Overhead extensions
- Face pulls
The Body-Solid G9S functional training station represents the pinnacle of home gym engineering. It’s not just a piece of equipment – it’s a complete fitness solution that adapts to your workout needs, challenges your body, and brings professional-grade training into your home.
Getting the Most from Each Station
To maximize your G9S experience:
- Start with lighter weights to learn proper form at each station
- Use the included workout DVD to master station transitions
- Experiment with different grip positions and angles
- Take advantage of the dual stack system for supersets
- Maintain proper positioning using the adjustable seats and pads
The true beauty of the Body-Solid G9S lies in how its stations work together to create a complete workout experience. Whether doing a full-body workout or focusing on specific muscle groups, each station delivers professional-grade results. It’s like having an entire gym’s worth of machines condensed into one sophisticated piece of equipment – and it’s all right in your home gym.
Remember, the key to success with the G9S is using each station as part of a well-rounded workout program. With proper form and consistent training, these stations can help you build strength, improve muscle definition, and achieve your fitness goals without stepping foot in a commercial gym.
Exercise Guide for the Body-Solid G9S Home Gym
If you’ve invested in a Body-Solid G9S, you’re looking at over 40 possible exercises to build your dream physique. Let’s break down every significant movement you can perform on this versatile machine.
Press Arm Station Exercises
- Bench Press (flat)
- Incline Press
- Shoulder Press
- Chest-Supported Mid Row
- Decline Press
Upper Body Cable Exercises
- Lat Pulldowns (wide, narrow, reverse grip)
- Seated Cable Rows
- Face Pulls
- Tricep Pushdowns
- Bicep Curls
- Cable Crossovers
- Lateral Raises
- Front Raises
- Upright Rows
Leg Station Movements
- Leg Press (up to 420 lbs resistance with 2:1 weight ratio)
- Calf Raises
- Leg Extensions
- Leg Curls
- Standing Hip Extensions
- Inner/Outer Thigh Exercises
Core and Ab Exercises
- Cable Crunches
- Standing Side Bends
- Wood Chops
- Trunk Rotations
- Ab Crunches using Perfect Pec Station
Perfect Pec Station Exercises
- Pec Flys (multiple angles)
- Rear Delt Flys
- Reverse Flys
- Cable Crossovers
Included Attachments and Their Uses:
- Revolving Lat Bar: For pulldowns and rows
- Revolving Straight Bar: For curls, pushdowns, and rows
- Ankle Strap: For leg extensions and hip work
- Ab/Triceps Strap: For targeted core and arm isolation
Sample Full-Body Workout
-
Upper Body Push (3 sets each)
- Chest Press: 12-15 reps
- Shoulder Press: 12-15 reps
- Tricep Pushdowns: 15-20 reps
-
Upper Body Pull (3 sets each)
- Lat Pulldowns: 12-15 reps
- Seated Rows: 12-15 reps
- Bicep Curls: 15-20 reps
-
Lower Body (3 sets each)
- Leg Press: 15-20 reps
- Calf Raises: 20-25 reps
- Leg Extensions: 15-20 reps
-
Core Finisher (3 sets each)
Body-Solid G9S Home Gym - Cable Crunches: 20 reps
- Wood Chops: 15 reps each side
- Standing Side Bends: 15 reps each side
Exercise Tips:
-
Weight Stack Management
- Each stack provides 210 lbs of resistance
- The leg press station offers up to 420 lbs with its 2:1 ratio
- Start light and focus on form before increasing weight
-
Station Transitions
- Keep your workout flowing by planning exercises that use the same station back-to-back.
- Have your pin settings planned for quick weight adjustments
-
Form Focus
- Use the included exercise chart for proper form guidance
- Start with controlled, slower movements until you master each exercise
- Take advantage of the machine’s natural movement paths
-
Maintenance Between Sets
Body-Solid G9S Home Gym - Keep a towel handy to wipe down pads
- Check cable tension regularly
- Fully insert all pins before beginning movements.
Remember to warm up properly before starting your workout and to adjust the various seats and pads to your body dimensions before each exercise. The G9S fits different body types, so take time to find your perfect settings for each movement.
For beginners, start with one set of each exercise and gradually build up to three sets as your strength and endurance improve. More advanced users can incorporate supersets and drop sets to increase workout intensity.
Consistency and proper form are key to getting the most out of your G9S. While the machine offers numerous exercise possibilities, master the basics before attempting more complex movements or combinations.
How to Assemble and Maintain Your Body-Solid G9S Home Gym: A Complete Guide
You just received your shiny new Body-Solid G9S, opened the box, and are staring at what looks like a thousand pieces of metal. Don’t panic. This guide will walk you through the assembly process and help you keep your investment in top shape for years.
First Things First: Before You Start
Take a deep breath. The G9S is a professional-grade home gym, and while it might look intimidating, assembly is doable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A clear space (at least 10′ x 10′)
- Essential tools (included with your gym)
- A friend (trust me on this one)
- About 3-4 hours of time
- Maybe a podcast or some good music
Assembly: Breaking It Down
Start by laying out all your pieces on the floor. The G9S comes with numbered parts and clear instructions, but here’s the real-world sequence that’ll make your life easier:
Start with the main frame. It is your foundation, so take your time getting it level and tight. The base needs to be rock-solid – wobbling is not your friend when you’re mid-workout.
Next comes the weight stack assembly. The weight plates are heavy (well, duh), and you’ll want someone to help you guide them onto the selector rod. Pro tip: Don’t fully tighten bolts until all the pieces are in place. It gives you wiggle room for adjustments.
The cable system is next, where people usually start sweating. Take it slow. Each cable has a specific route, and the manual shows detailed diagrams. Follow them exactly—don’t try to freestyle this part. A misrouted cable can affect your workout efficiency and potentially cause wear issues.
Keeping It Running Smooth
Now that you’ve completed assembling your G9S, let’s talk maintenance. It’s pretty simple, but consistent care makes a huge difference:
Weekly Checks:
Check the cables for any signs of wear or fraying. Run your hand along them (when the machine isn’t in use, obviously). If you feel any broken strands, it’s time for a replacement.
Monthly Tasks:
Give all the bolts a quick check—they can loosen up over time. Also, a light coating of silicone lubricant should be applied to the guide rods to keep the weight stack gliding smooth as butter.
Every Six Months:
A deep clean of the frame and upholstery is needed. A mix of mild soap and water works great for the pads. After cleaning, dry the frame with a dry cloth to prevent rust.
When to Call the Pros
While the G9S features tank-like construction, sometimes you’ll encounter issues needing professional attention. If you notice any of these red flags:
- Unusual noises from the weight stack
- Jerky or inconsistent resistance
- Visible cable damage
- Structural problems with the frame
Don’t try to MacGyver a solution. Body-Solid has excellent customer service, and they can either guide you through a fix or send a professional to help.
Pros
- Two 210lb. Selectorized Weight Stacks: Upgradable to 260lb. stacks
- Multi-Grip Press Arm delivers deep and practical muscle interaction for chest, incline, and shoulder press movements.
- Perfect Pec™ Station: Equipped with swivel arms, adjustable range of motion, and designed for unilateral and bilateral movements.
- Premium Leg Press: Double beam design eliminates ankle stress and provides consistent resistance throughout a full range of motion. The pivoting press plate rotates forward and downward to target the thighs, hamstrings, and glutes.
- SmoothGlide Bearing System™: This system glides you friction-free through the press and leg developer stations, with a biomechanically accurate pivot point.
- Leg Extension Cuffs: Self-aligning and contoured, they automatically adjust throughout the exercise movement
- Gas-Assisted Seat Post: The telescoping chrome-plated post will adapt quickly and smoothly.
- Flip-Up Seated Row Foot Plate: Stabilizes your body when using massive resistance.
- Light Commercial Warranty: Lifetime Warranty on Frames, welds, weight plates, and guide rods; 2 Years on Pulleys, bushings, bearings, and hardware; 1 Year on cables, upholstery, grips, and all other components.
- It comes with an in-home lifetime warranty for personal use. Pads, pulleys, cables, frames.
Cons
- Hard to assemble
Please Note: Some product photos may show aluminum pulleys and other options not included with the base model.
Final Thoughts on the Body-Solid G9S Home Gym: Worth the Investment?
The G9S’s claim to fame? Two independent 210-pound weight stacks that let two people work out simultaneously. With seven versatile exercise stations packed into one machine, you’re getting everything from chest presses to leg workouts covered. The clever 2:1 ratio on the leg press means you can push up to 420 pounds, while the Perfect Pec™ Station offers adjustable movements for targeted upper body training.
Comfort isn’t an afterthought here. High-density DuraFirm pads and built-in lumbar support keep your workouts comfortable, while thoughtful design touches like properly positioned rowing handles show Body-Solid’s attention to detail.
At 84″ x 89″ x 70″, it’s substantial but still more space-efficient than multiple separate machines. The $4,995 price tag might seem steep, but for a commercial-grade home gym that can handle everything from casual workouts to serious training, it’s an investment that could serve your fitness needs for years to come.
The bottom line? The G9S offers everything you’d expect from a high-end gym machine: durability, versatility, and clever design. It’s a solid choice for bringing professional-quality workouts into your home if you have the space and budget.
Important Safety Note:
As with any new exercise program or equipment, it’s essential to consult your physician to ensure the equipment is safe for you to use. It is especially crucial if you have any medical or physical conditions impacting your ability to exercise properly or putting your health at risk. Additionally, if you’re taking medication that affects your heart rate, blood pressure, or cholesterol level, your doctor’s advice is vital to create a workout plan that suits your needs.
Share Your Thoughts and Questions
I hope this in-depth review of the Body-Solid G9S Home Gym was helpful and informative. I encourage you to share your thoughts and questions on the topic. Have you used the G9S before or have experience with similar rowing machines? Your insights can help others make an informed decision. Additionally, I welcome any feedback about my website and suggestions for future content. Your input is invaluable in creating a supportive and informative community.
I look forward to hearing from you and continuing the conversation!
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I like how you can adjust the angle of the pec station and that this home gym has a lot of features and benefits that other machines do not. I like to see that you are reviewing a weight stack home gym instead of another cardio machine. I think that the arms and other parts of the upper body deserve some attention just like the lower body machines give to your legs.
Hi John, thanks for sharing your thoughts.
All the best!
I’m trying to decide between the Body Solid G9S and G6BR. I’d appreciate any input you might have. Thanks!
Hi Debbie, I hope you are well. I love both of these home gyms, so picking one over the other is a difficult choice. I’ll list a few considerations. The G6BR has a 210 lb single weight stack (upgradable to 260 lbs), and although there are six workout stations, only one person can workout using the weight stack. The G9S has dual 210 lb weight stacks (upgradable to 260 lbs). This means that although both gyms have six workout stations, the G9S allows for multiple users working out at the same. There’s an equal number of accessories for both of these gyms. However, the G9S includes the leg press, while the G6BR does not include the leg press. It’s sold as an accessory. The G6BR is a 25th-anniversary limited edition. Therefore, it has a limited supply and might be hard to find. I give the edge to the G9S. Amazon.com is currently out of the G9S. However, Body-Solid and several other reputable fitness equipment dealers have the gym in stock. The price is around $4,600. If you have any other questions or need assistance, please reach out to me. I’ll be happy to help in any way.