Force USA G15 All-In-One Trainer Review

Quick Summary

Building out a garage gym is both art and science, and along the path to developing my own, learning the lesson of space maximization and cost efficiency has been key. To that end, Force USA keeps coming up with good answers, including its 2022 introduction of the G15. Rolled alongside the G10, both serve as solid Goldilocks models meant for those who see the G20 as too much in the category of stack+plate, and the G9 as just a little too small in the grouping of plate-loaded. Designed as an 8-in-1 machine, it replaces eight different workout stations with both plate-loaded and weight-stack components.

With an exterior footprint measuring 80″ x 53″ x 57″ and online price of $5,999.99, the one-piece wonder is built to accessorize and customers have the option of purchasing a multi-component upgrade kit for $799.99. For those looking for an all-inclusive answer to the garage gym conundrum of space and money, Force USA’s new G15 certainly brings the A-game. While I can literally walk into my own garage gym and physically see the space I’d save by rolling these stations into one, you can simply read further into our detailed spec analysis and comparisons below to see if this model would be right for you.

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Specifications

Model	Force USA G15
Rating Our custom rating considers all of the Home Gym's features, specs, warranties, and 100's of user & expert reviews, to save you time!	94%
List Price Suggested retail price, typically higher than the price you'll pay with our recommended retailers.	$5,999.99
Best Price Since prices change daily, this link goes to our preferred retailer for the current best price. Note: MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price.	$5999.99
Type There are a few different types of Home Gyms. There are weight stack, power rod and body weight.	All-In-One
Max. Weight Home Gym Max Weight is the maximum amount of weight, in pounds (lbs), that can be lifted on the machine.	992 lbs
Exercises Home Gym exercises is the number of exercises you can do on the machine.	375+
Seat The seat on a Home Gym can be adjustable, padded, or detached.	no
User Weight Home Gym User Weight is the amount of weight, in pounds (lbs), that it can safely support, which can represent durability.
Dimensions Dimensions are included to help you figure out if this Home Gym will fit properly (Length x Width x Height and Height x Depth).	Length: 80" Width: 53" Height: 87"
Workout Area Home Gym Workout Area is the amount of space needed to use the Home Gym (Length x Width)	80' x 70' (approx.)
Legs This field lets you know if this Home Gym has the option to do leg workouts or not.
Abs This field lets you know if this Home Gym has abdominal workouts or not.
Curls This field lets you know if this Home Gym has the option to do arm curls or not.
Pulldown This field lets you know if this Home Gym has the option to do pulldown workouts or not.
Rows This field lets you know if this Home Gym has the option to do rows or not.
Accessories Many Home Gyms have optional accessories you can purchase separately.	18 attachments included
Warranty The warranty is a very important part of your investment. The longer the warranty, the longer you can get free/discounted repairs by the manufacturer.	Rack: Lifetime

Our Rating

94/100

The Force USA G15 comes in at the upper end of the brand’s stack+plate grouping of all-in-one machines: G6, G12, G15, and G20. For a thorough run-down of the Force USA All-in-One lineup, read our review here. Priced the same as the G20 with an optional upgrade pack at $799 as opposed to $999, the first thing a potential customer questions is the other differences between the two. Dollar for dollar, the G20 does bring more bells and whistles and a superior set of weight capacities. Whether a powerlifter, a bodybuilder, or a generalized fitness enthusiast though, any of these Force USA stack+plate machines will get the job done and they’re all priced very comparably. We still give a slight edge to the G20 in ratings, but if you’re interested in one, you’ll definitely want to check the other.

Pros:

High weight capacity (Unit 992 pounds, Chin-Up 772 pounds, Smith Machine 772 pounds)
8 workout stations in one machine
Unique interchangeable cable-pulley ratios of 2:1 and 4:1
More than 375 different exercises
Both plate-loaded and weight-stack resistance
Supports all Olympic barbell lifts and their variants – Squats, Deadlifts, Presses
Two 285-pound weight stacks
18 attachments included
Upgrade package available with Jammer Arms, Vertical Leg Press, Core Trainer, TV Mount, Barbell Row, Two Metal Handles, Ankle Cuff, and four storage shelves
High-tensile cables rated at 2,000 pounds
Walkthrough design
Lifetime structural warranty

Cons:

Assembly will be required
Larger footprint and requires 7’8″ ceilings minimum
Requires sufficient flooring to support

Force USA G15 versus the competition

All-in-One Trainers are an attractive investment for those building out a garage gym. The big question is, which one to buy? Force USA has a solid lineup with the 2022 season bringing in two new models, the G15 and the G10. Technically an 8-in-1 machine, the G15 is so diverse in its offerings it’s like a whole gym in itself. I really like the Force USA lineup, whether plate-loaded or plate-loaded plus weight stack, but the competition is quite fierce for these machines.

Right off the bat, the French Fitness FS90 Functional Trainer and Squat Rack, priced at $3,699 provides a number of similar features for a lower price. The French Fitness family of equipment also offers a comparable number of accessory units to upgrade one’s initial purchase. Here we see a power rack, Smith Machine, functional trainer, landmine station, dip bars, pull-up station, lat pull-down, Jammer Arms, and leg press. Very similar, but the maximum weight on that unit’s J-Hooks is 550 pounds, Smith Machine at 600 pounds, and total weight 992 pounds. The functional trainer offers two 220-pound weight stacks. Measuring nearly 88 inches in height, it’s 88 inches wide, and 65 inches deep, plus the Jammer Arms fully extended reach 101.5 inches. The different in cost between the two units can easily be seen in the options, associated weights, and shorter warranty of 10 years.

Rogue Fitness is a rival brand to Force USA and brings the Rogue Fitness Monster Cave, priced at $5,700. Built with more weight storage capacity in the shape of a cave, the unit is built around a power rack. The Monster Cave system expands the cable pulley system into a wide frame, and offers 300-pound weight stacks on either side. With an upright height of 90″, the unit is significantly larger and does offer options in terms of configurations. Meanwhile, the same power rack model where the Big Four lifts can be be performed with barbells offers a solid 3×3-inch, 11-gauge steel construction with Westside Barbell spacing. Rogue Fitness offers limited lifetime warranties on welds and structural frames, and with 5-year warranties on parts. Here the value to the G15 is in the compact nature of the built as it takes up less space.

So the question for potential customers is the value of having eight different stations in one, as opposed to making due with a simple bench press and squat rack. Check out the details below on what exactly the eight options entail.

Working Out on The Force USA G15

The Force USA G15, at a basic level, can be broken out into eight different machines that take up a single footprint. Depending on what sort of routine you’re looking to do, you’ll need to pick up an Olympic barbell and perhaps an adjustable workout bench to use the G15 to its maximum potential. The G15 contains a: Power Rack, Functional Trainer, Smith Machine, Pull-Up Station, Dip Station, Suspension Trainer, Lat Pulldown Machine, Low Row. The G15 also brings the option of a $799 upgrade kit which includes: Two Jammer Arms, an adjustable vertical leg press plate, core trainer, TV mount, barbell row handle, a pair of single metal handles, ankle cuffs, and four storage shelves.

Power Rack

The base of the unit is a power rack, which is a modified squat cage built with 11-gauge steel, 2×2 uprights, and 60 adjustment points on the uprights. These adjustment points provide 1-inch spacing for those familiar with powerlifting movements. Commercial J-Hooks can be adjusted vertically along the uprights to hold a barbell in position for upper body presses, squats, deadlifts, or rack pulls. The unit also comes with moveable spotter arms to allow for a solo workout in safety. The structural integrity of the rack itself is manifest in the 992-pound weight max of the machine, which also features eight weight plate holders for storage. The unit’s exterior measures 80″ x 53″ x 87″ with an interior of 40″ x 50″ x 80″ in which to work. The machine has storage space for two barbells, and all in all, there’s little change that even an advanced lifter would outgrow the G15.

Functional Trainer

For those used to other machines, a functional trainer here is the adjustable height cable rig connected two weight stacks on either side. With the G15, two separate 285-pound stacks are included. What’s unique about this model is the cable pulley ratio can be adjusted from 1:1 to 4:1. When at 1:1 a lifter feels 100 pounds as 100 pounds, whereas at 4:1 the same 100-pound load feels like 25 pounds. This is a unique feature which opens up a lot of opportunities to really maximize the weight offered here. That said, it’s unlikely one would outgrow 285-pound stacks for the type of isolation exercises used here. The cables can be adjusted vertically into 22 height positions and are constructed from 6.2mm nylon coated, military-spec quality cable which is tested to 2,000 pounds. Purchase comes with 18 different attachments as well as dual exercise charts.

Smith Machine

One of the primary reasons for buying a unit like this is the Smith Machine. With a maximum weight load of 772 pounds and 14 different racking positions, the Smith Machine can be used to stabilize pressing or squatting, or for negative lifts. Negatives are great for strength training, and are virtually impossible to perform without spotters or a solid Smith Machine. The safety spotter arms also assist in users ability to lift with heavy weights in negative fashion. This unit allows lifters to flip the bar free from it’s locks and return it to a safe position, whether to assist with balance or for supra-maximal loads.

Chin-Up Station

Designed to accommodate wide grip, narrow grip, underhand, and overhand, this station sports a maximum user weight of 772 pounds. For those unaccustomed to weighted pull-ups and chins, there are a number of methods for adding resistance into the mix of a superb back exercise. Whether holding a dumbbell between the feet, or using a chain attached to a belt, the fact one has a 772-pound max here demonstrates the overall stability of the basic cage as well as the opportunities available. To use this station one does need a minimum ceiling height of 7’8″.

Suspension Trainer

Whether using the Force USA model, TRX, or some other brand of stirrups and straps, this attachment allows users to hook themselves into more than 50 different bodyweight exercises. For those unfamiliar, these straps allow one to do push-ups, pull-ups, stretches, and more, using one’s own bodyweight as resistance.

Lat Pulldown

The G15’s included lat pulldown bar and knee holder attachment work in conjunct with either of the rack’s uprights and are adjustable. These work with the functional trainer’s cable-based weight stack and the user can utilize up to 285 pounds from either stack. The lat pulldown bar can be used to replicate the chin-up and dip, or other row-based exercises.

Low Row

The Low Row Plate attachment measures 9″ x 22″ and can attach to the bottom front of either upright. Users then hook to the cables of the Functional Trainer, and while in a seated position, can pull up to 285 pounds for a horizontal rowing motion. Purchase includes a specific handle for the Low Row, but other attachments can be utilized as well to alter the grip and target different muscles.

Dip Station

Purchase also includes a front-mounted dip handle which can be attached to either of the uprights. The dip handle can be used in conjunct with a weighted belt or weight vest to add resistance to what most consider the best triceps builder out there. Users can perform front-facing or outward dips with this attachment.

Included G15 Attachments:

2 x 285 lb Weight Stacks
2 x J-Hooks
Adjustable Low Row Footplate
Dip Handle
Suspension Trainer
Front Safety Support Bars
Smith Safeties and Adjustable Hooks
Lat Pulldown Bar
Knee Anchor for Lat Pulldowns
2 x Single Nylon Cable D Handle
2 x Adjustable Nylon Cable Handle
Triceps Rope
Triceps V Bar
Short Bar
Revolving Dual Cable Straight Bar
Close Grip Row Handle
10 x Olympic Lock Collars
4 x Band Pegs
6 x Carabiners
8 x Plate Holders
2 x Barbell Storage
2 x Exercise Charts with 56 exercises
Storage Hooks

A large apparatus with considerable attachments. The shipping weight of the pallet to be received is 1,213 pounds and comes in four crates. Force USA does offer third-party assembly in the home for an additional cost.

Warranty & Guarantee

The Force USA G15 All-in-one Trainer includes a lifetime structural warranty.

Questions & Answers

What kind of hole-spacing is utilized in the uprights ?
The front-facing uprights have 60 adjustment points set at 1″ intervals and laser-etched numerals. The adjustable J-Hooks can be moved vertically along the uprights and secured in place.
Does the G15 come with weight plates?
No, individual barbells and plates must be purchased separately. The machine comes with two 285-pound weight stacks.
Is the G15 difficult to assemble?
Actually, assembly could be complicated. Force USA does offer a third-party installer. Or, if opting do it oneself, we would definitely recommend getting assistance as there are a lot of parts.
Would the G15 fit in a second-story bedroom?
Keep in mind the weight of the unit when shipped is over 1,200 pounds, and that’s before barbells and weight plates are considered. We’d strongly recommend a concrete floor, such as found in a garage, or at least a solid ground floor within the home. Otherwise there might be issues with the first-floor ceiling below.

Training Tips for Force USA G15

One of the great values to this model is the Smith Machine. As a lifelong iron addict, I love negative reps. There’s just no way to do negatives properly at home without a Smith Machine, as there is no spotter. A negative rep is focus on the eccentric phase of the lift, such as the lowering of the bar to the chest when benching. The concentric phase of the lift is the upward press. To perform negative reps, one typically slows down the lift into a 4- to 5-second movement, focusing on controlling the weight slowly all the way down expending all their energy . This inevitably requires someone to pull the bar off the chest afterward, or with a Smith Machine, one can simply lock the rack in place at the chest. The big benefit here is one can bust through plateaus by overloading the bar as we can typically handle 25% more weight on the eccentric phase than we can on the concentric. Say your 1-rep maximum on bench is 315 pounds. Using negatives, you might put 335 pounds on the bar and concentrate on the handling of the weight downward. This forces your body to grow into that weight. This not only produces a high level of hypertrophy but it also strengthens your Central Nervous System (CNS). When incorporating these into the workout, figure only using one or two sets of negatives after the regular work sets.

Is It Worth It?

The Force USA G15 is a terrific machine, but frankly, we’d have to say with the present pricing that either the G6 at $4,499 or the G20 at a price of $5,999.99 are the better buys. Granted, the G6 has less poundage in the weight stacks, and there are some unique benefits to the G15, from a strict dollar standpoint, it’s a mid-level unit for a reason. That said, it’s a new product released in 2022 and if pricing specials arise later and make it less expensive than the G20, that could make a big difference. Force USA does offer an entire catalogue of products and in the case of an all-in-one trainer such as this, barbells and plates might be needed. For those interested in making a buy company direct, keep in mind our discount code FITRATED can knock 5% off orders of $1,500 or greater.

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