The Monster G3 and Monster G9 from Force USA are not the typical squat racks. These are All-In-One Strength Tools that include a functional trainer, smith machine, landmine, storage, a traditional squat rack, and much more. Both combine a number of machines you’d typically see at a commercial gym within a minimal footprint for your home gym.

Who are these for?

A traditional power rack may be the option for many, but here’s a quick look at who would benefit the most from Trainers like these:

• Anyone looking to replace their commercial gym. For whatever reason, it may be time to replace your gym membership with a home gym. Tools like this will help you have similar options to all that comes with your current gym.
• Homes with multiple people that want to utilize the gym. Whether you have a family of five or it’s just you and your significant other, a versatile package like this can benefit many different workout styles.
• The footprints are not much larger than a typical power rack, so anyone with limited space, but want a ton of versatility would benefit.
• These beautiful machines would look great to potential personal training clients. Personal trainers who want to have a very wide variety of exercise options for their clients in a smaller space.
• The Smith Machine and Functional Trainer workouts are safer workout options for many when going at it out alone.

Stack Weights vs. Plate Weights

The G3 and G9 are considered “Plate Weight Machines.” This means that you’ll need to use plate weights or bumpers when using the pulley systems. Force also offers “Stack Weight Machines” where there are stack plates for the pulley system with the G6 and G12. This does add convenience, but it also drives up the price.

For someone who already has a lot of plates, or plans on buying them, it’s something to consider when deciding between these two types.

Similar Features between the G3 and G9

While not all of the features are 1:1, here’s a list of the similar attributes these tools share. The primary differences are explained in the section below.

• Squat Rack: J-hooks and safety spotter arms are included. Therefore, you can squat, bench, overhead press, and more in safety.
• Functional Trainer: This includes commercial-grade pulleys and moves smoothly while doing any sort of cable movement.
• Smith Machine: The fixed barbell is easy to rack and is a safe way to do a number of exercises. It’s also a nice change of pace for those who like traditional barbell exercises.
• Multi-Grip Pull Up Bar: Wide grip, close grip, and other variations are possible.
• Landmine: These can be attached to the bottom of the unit and have the ability to offer a full-body workout.
• Storage: Just about everything can be stored on these machines like barbells, plates, and cable attachments so your precious floor space is not taken up.

Primary Differences Between the Two

When comparing the two, you can think of the Monster G9 as the big brother to the Monster G3. It’s the premium option, but also $1k more. The primary differences are:

• The dimensions for the G9 are 79″ W x 53″ D x 90″ H. The G3 is sized at 80″ W x 55″ D x 87″ H, so pretty similar in size.

• A counterbalanced smith machine is included with the G9, which allows you to lift the true weight of the weight on the bar.

• The pulley ratio is 1:1 with the Monster G9 so you are lifting the exact weight, but 2:1 for the G3 (if you have 100 pounds loaded, then the resistance is just 50).

• The leg press attachment is included in the box for the G9 but is an additional option for the G3.

• A leg press attachment is included with the G9 but would be an additional purchase for the G3.

• Westside hole spacing is only included with the G3.

• The G9 now has a few more color variations.

• The G3 starts out at $2,199 vs. the G9 at $3,199.

Conclusion

When breaking everything down, these are some of the highest value strength tools that you will find. There is nearly a limitless number of workouts that can be performed with them and they are built extremely well. Both of these Monsters would be an excellent option for anyone looking for a great amount of versatility within a small footprint of their home.

If interested in reading about the All-in-One Stack Weight Machines, the G6 and G12 were also summarized.

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