Who this collection is for (and how to choose)
Multi-station gyms are the most space-efficient way to let two to eight people train at once without waiting for plates or benches. If you’re equipping a home garage, a PT studio, or a high-traffic facility, start by matching the number of simultaneous users (2–3 on compact corner units, 4–8 on jungle gyms) to your busiest hour. Next, pick the stack configuration: dual-stack systems cover push/pull/legs with minimal footprint; triple- and quad-stack rigs add a dedicated leg press or extra cable column; 5–8-stack “jungle” frames create lanes for teams and circuits. Favor selectorized stacks for rapid pin changes and tidy floors; reserve plate-loaded add-ons for specialty moves if desired.
Key specs that actually drive the experience: stack weight (upgradeable options prevent strength ceilings), stations included (press, lat, row, hi/low cable, leg press, leg curl/extension), adjustability (pulley height increments; rotating handles), footprint & ceiling clearance, and frame/warranty appropriate to home, light-commercial, or full-commercial duty. Use the quick table below to shortlist a unit that fits your space, user count, and progression plan.
Quick comparison (decisive specs)
| Model | Users | Stacks | Key Stations | Expandability | Footprint Guide | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body-Solid EXM3000LPS | 2–3 | Dual selectorized | Chest press, pec fly, lat pulldown, low row, leg ext/curl | Leg press station on select packages; stack upgrades | Medium (≈70–100 sq ft; 7–8 ft ceiling) | Homes & boutique studios wanting full-body coverage |
| Body-Solid EXM4000S | 3–4 | Triple selectorized | Press, pec, lat/row, hi/low cable; optional leg press | Add leg press/extra station depending on build | Large (≈110–140 sq ft; 8–9 ft ceiling) | Small facilities balancing variety and throughput |
| Body-Solid G9S | 2–3 | Dual selectorized | Bi-angular press, pec, lat/row, ab, leg ext/curl | Optional leg press & accessories | Medium (corner-friendly; ≈75–95 sq ft) | Corners of garages or PT rooms |
| Body-Solid G10B Bi-Angular | 2 | Dual selectorized | Bi-angular chest, pec, lat/row, hi/low cable | Attachments for specific movements | Medium-small (≈60–85 sq ft) | Two-user home setups with guided presses |
| Muscle D Corner Multi-Gym (MDM-2CM) | 2–3 | Dual selectorized | Lat, seated row, adjustable cable, press/pec module | Handle kits & accessory storage | Compact corner (≈55–70 sq ft) | Maximizing performance in tight corners |
| Muscle D 5-Stack Jungle Gym | 4–5 | Five selectorized | Lat, row, triceps/pressdown, 2× hi/low adjustable pulleys | Configurable cross-members & attachments | Large (≈150–180 sq ft) | Team circuits & small group training |
| Muscle D 8-Stack Jungle Gym | 6–8 | Eight selectorized | Dual lat, dual row, 4× hi/low adjustable pulleys | Chin/dip modules, accessory add-ons | XL (≈200–260 sq ft) | High-traffic commercial floors |
Footprint notes: add ~2–3 ft of working clearance at cable ends and step-off zones. For basements/garages, confirm ceiling height at the machine’s tallest cross-member plus pull-up space.
FAQs
How many stacks (and users) do I need?
Match stacks to peak usage. Dual-stack units comfortably support two to three users. Triple/quad-stack rigs raise throughput and add specialty stations (often a dedicated leg press). Five- to eight-stack jungles create lanes so multiple users can rotate without bottlenecks.
What space should I budget?
Plan the machine’s footprint plus movement lanes: roughly 2–3 ft in front of presses, at cable ends, and around the leg station. Compact corners run ~55–70 sq ft; mid-size frames ~70–110 sq ft; jungle gyms ~150–260 sq ft. Measure doorways and turns for delivery.
Are multi-station gyms better than a rack + cables?
They’re different tools. Multi-stations win on guided motion, speed of adjustments, and multi-user flow. A rack + cables favors barbell freedom and incremental upgrades. Facilities often run both: multi-station lanes for circuits, racks for barbell work.
Can I upgrade stacks or add stations later?
Many systems offer stack upgrades and add-on modules (e.g., leg press or extra hi/low cable). Check the options for the specific model you’re considering and plan electrical/space needs up front.
What should I look for in build quality?
Heavy-gauge steel frames, sealed pulleys, smooth cable travel, stable weight carriages, and clearly labeled increments. For commercial duty, confirm warranty coverage and bushing/bearing specs; for home gyms, prioritize compact footprints and versatile handle kits.
Layout tip: Place jungle gyms so cable lanes don’t cross walkways. Keep accessory hooks near each station to speed swaps and keep floors clear.