Learning how to fold Total Gym equipment is a straightforward process that saves significant space. The Total Gym folds compactly by following a specific sequence to release and lower the glideboard. This guide will walk you through each step for various models, ensuring you can store your home gym efficiently and safely.
Folding your machine correctly protects its mechanisms and prevents accidents. Whether you have a classic model or a newer version, the core principles remain similar. Let’s get started with the essential preparation steps.
How To Fold Total Gym
Before you begin folding, a little preparation ensures the process is smooth and prevents damage to your equipment or injury to yourself. Rushing this step can lead to pinched fingers or strain.
Always refer to your owner’s manual first, as there might be model-specific instructions. If you’ve misplaced it, you can often find a digital copy on the Total Gym website by searching your model number.
Clear The Exercise Area
Remove any accessories like the wing attachment, leg pulley, or squat stand. Store them separately. This reduces weight and obstructions, making the frame easier to handle.
Ensure the floor around the Total Gym is free of toys, shoes, or other trip hazards. You need a clear path to lower the machine and move it afterwards.
Adjust The Incline To The Lowest Setting
For most folding procedures, you should set the incline to the lowest level. This typically means positioning the height adjustment pin in the bottom-most hole on the frame’s tower.
Lowering the incline brings the glideboard closer to the base, creating a more balanced and stable unit to fold. It also reduces the tension on the cables and pulleys.
Why This Step Is Crucial
Starting from the highest incline can make the unit top-heavy and difficult to control. The glideboard may swing down forcefully if not properly secured first, which could damage the rollers or frame.
Secure The Glideboard
On many models, you need to lock the glideboard in place before folding. Look for a glideboard lock or latch mechanism near the front of the base frame.
Engage this lock to prevent the glideboard from sliding unexpectedly during the folding process. This is a key safety step that is sometimes overlooked in the hurry to finish.
Step-By-Step Folding Instructions
With the prep work complete, you can now follow the core folding sequence. These steps apply to popular models like the Total Gym XLS, FIT, and many others.
Step 1: Release The Main Locking Mechanism
Locate the main folding latch or lever. This is usually a sturdy handle or knob near the center of the main frame, often where the upright tower connects to the base.
You may need to pull, twist, or lift this mechanism to release it. It might require a bit of force, but never use excessive strength. If it’s stuck, double-check that all other locks are disengaged.
Step 2: Gently Lower The Upright Tower
Once the main lock is released, firmly grip the upright tower (the part with the incline height holes). With controlled motion, begin to lower it toward the base frame.
Use both hands and keep your back straight, bending at the knees. Let the tower down slowly; don’t let it drop. The cables and pulleys will fold along with the structure.
Managing The Cables And Pulleys
As you lower the tower, guide any loose cables so they don’t get pinched or tangled. The pulley system is designed to fold inward, but a visual check ensures everything is moving correctly.
Step 3: Engage The Transport Or Storage Lock
When the tower is fully lowered onto the base, you will hear or feel it click into place. There is often a secondary lock, pin, or strap that secures the unit in its folded position.
Engage this lock. It’s what keeps the Total Gym safely folded during storage or when you’re wheeling it to a new location. Without this, it could unexpectedly unfold.
Step 4: Store Or Move Your Folded Total Gym
Most Total Gyms have wheels on one end. Tilt the folded unit back onto these wheels to transport it. Push, don’t pull, for better control.
Store the machine in a dry place, away from direct sunlight or dampness. Stand it upright against a wall, ensuring the floor is level so it doesn’t roll.
Model-Specific Folding Considerations
While the general process is universal, some models have unique features. Here’s what to know for common versions.
Folding The Total Gym XLS
The XLS model has a prominent silver release lever on the side of the main frame. Pull this lever upward while holding the tower to initiate the fold.
It also features a convenient transport wheel kit. After folding, you simply tip the unit and roll it away. The glideboard lock is integrated into the squat stand holder on this model.
Folding The Total Gym FIT
The Total Gym FIT uses a simple pull-pin mechanism. Remove the pin from the upright, then lower the tower. Re-insert the pin into a dedicated hole in the folded position to lock it.
This model is particularly streamlined for folding. The accessories are designed to stay attached, but it’s still recommended to remove items like the press-up bars before folding for the best results.
Folding Older Total Gym Models
Older models, like some from the 90s, may have a different latch system. Often, there is a large black knob you must unscrew several turns before the tower can be lowered.
These vintage units are built to last but may require a bit more care. Inspect the cables and pulleys regularly for wear if you have an older machine.
Common Troubleshooting And Safety Tips
Sometimes, you might encounter a minor issue. Here’s how to solve common problems and fold your Total Gym safely every time.
The Tower Won’t Lower Or Feels Stuck
If the tower won’t budge, do not force it. First, re-check these points:
- Is the incline height pin completely removed? On some models, it must be taken out.
- Is the glideboard lock disengaged? A secured glideboard can prevent folding.
- Are any accessories interfering? A wing attachment or leg pulley cable might be caught.
Lubricating the moving joints with a silicone-based spray can also help if the mechanism is stiff from disuse.
Avoiding Pinch Points And Strain
The folding joints are strong metal. Always be mindful of where you place your fingers. Keep them clear of the hinge areas between the tower and base.
Lift with your legs, not your back, when lowering the tower. The unit is not extremely heavy, but the awkward shape can lead to strain if you use poor form.
Maintenance For Smooth Folding
To keep the folding action smooth, perform light maintenance every few months. Wipe down the frame to prevent dust buildup in the hinges.
Check that all bolts and screws are tight. A loose frame can wobble and make folding more difficult. A quick visual inspection before you fold can prevent most problems.
Unfolding Your Total Gym For Use
Reversing the process to set up your gym is just as important. Doing it correctly ensures the machine is safe and stable for your workout.
Step-By-Step Unfolding Guide
- Place the folded Total Gym on a flat, clear surface.
- Disengage the transport or storage lock that is holding it folded.
- Lift the upright tower with a firm, steady motion until it clicks into the fully upright position.
- Engage the main locking mechanism (push the lever, insert the pin, etc.) securely. Give it a gentle shake to test it’s locked.
- Disengage the glideboard lock so the board can slide freely.
- Insert the incline height pin at your desired workout level. Ensure the pin goes fully through the tower and opposite side hole.
- Re-attach any accessories you removed, like the squat stand or wing attachment.
Now your Total Gym is ready for your next exercise session. It’s a good habit to check these locks and pins each time you use the equipment.
FAQ: How To Fold Total Gym
How Do You Fold A Total Gym For Storage?
You fold a Total Gym for storage by first lowering the incline, securing the glideboard, releasing the main frame latch, and slowly lowering the tower onto the base. Always engage the storage lock once folded and store the unit upright in a dry location.
Can All Total Gym Models Be Folded?
Most Total Gym models are designed to fold, but not all. The classic home models like the XLS, FIT, and Supreme are foldable. However, some commercial or very old models may have a fixed design. Always check your owner’s manual to confirm your specific model’s capabilities.
Why Won’t My Total Gym Fold Down Completely?
If your Total Gym won’t fold down, common reasons include an unremoved incline pin, an engaged glideboard lock, or an accessory cable blocking the path. Also, check that the main release lever is fully disengaged. Forcing it can cause damage, so troubleshoot each point carefully.
Is It Hard To Fold A Total Gym?
Folding a Total Gym is not hard when you know the correct steps. It requires moderate physical effort to lower the tower, but the mechanism itself is simple. The first few times may feel awkward, but the process becomes quick and easy with practice. Following the manual is the best way to learn.
How Do You Move A Folded Total Gym?
To move a folded Total Gym, tip it back onto the transport wheels located on one end of the base frame. Push the unit while holding the frame for control. Ensure the storage lock is engaged so it doesn’t unfold while moving. Clear your path of obstacles to avoid bumps that could cause it to tip.