I repeated this deep sentiment to a Tonal staffer, who quickly responded by arranging a test unit to be delivered to my home. He was short on words, but I took his immediate action as, “Prove me wrong.”
I used the Tonal at least twice a week for an entire year for this review. I targeted my strength training to climbing goals where the cost of failure was high. My goal was to pick the system apart, and I assumed I would quickly revert to my barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells, and bumper plates. I was sure the Tonal would amount to high-tech and expensive gadgetry that didn’t add anything to my program.
In short: The Tonal crammed my proverbial foot in my mouth, and for many, it can serve as an incredibly efficient, effective, and convenient strength training device. There are caveats, limited to power development, which isn’t a goal for all.
- Resistance: Electromagnetic
- Required Accessories: Smart Handles and Bar
- Mounting Requirements: standard outlet, studs and ceiling height, 7' x 7' centered space in front
Pros
- Enhanced safety compared to free weights
- Digital weight with Smart Flex requires more effort, stability, and focus
- Unobtrusive form factor for being so comprehensive
- Lifting modes add challenge, dimension and safety
Cons
- Expensive
- Permanent mount
What Is a Tonal?
The Tonal Purchasing Process and Space Requirements
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5 Pounds Is 5 Pounds. Or Is It?
Safety and Lifting Modes
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Safety and Adjustability of Digital Weight
Tonal Lifting Modes
A Trainer and Spotter on Your Wall
The Trainer
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The Spotter
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The Big Caveats
My Opinion on Tonal as a Professional Trainer
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Efficiency
Reduces Friction in Making Strength Training a Habit
Conclusions on Tonal
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