Hands on with the Gym Monster 2: Digital weight feels real

The Gym Monster 2 is a well-built, compact, and feature-rich piece of gym equipment that builds on its predecessor. The accessories and guided workouts can provide hours of fresh routines that are sufficient to help users of most skill levels meet their strength training goals.

However, the reliance on the Bluetooth ring does introduce a level of concern when controlling weight while lifting without a spotter or the assist mode turned on, especially since the machine can create 220 lbs of digital weight. Overall, the Gym Monster 2 offers a dynamic workout experience that can provide users with an engaging full-body workout and satisfactory soreness after each session.

The Gym Monster 2 is available on the Speediance website and Amazon and has several bundle options. The review set is the "Works Plus" package, currently available for $3,799.00 on both sites. However, both sites have the basic "Works" package on sale for $3,459, which includes free shipping.

The Gym Monster 2 is the latest all-in-one strength training machine by Speediance. With a new speaker system, features, and 220 lbs of digital weight in tow, the Gym Monster 2 aims to provide a unique and dynamic workout to users of all skill levels. 

The box for the Gym Monster 2 is huge. Fortunately, this is because the GM2 ships almost fully assembled. As unwieldy as the box may appear, standing it up and unpacking the unit was manageable, albeit a workout on its own. Additionally, the adjustable bench part of the "Works Plus" package came packed in a second, smaller box.

The setup for the GM2 is reasonably straightforward. It involves removing the packaging material, which adequately protected the unit during shipping, as no dings or defects were found while unboxing. The bench is also simple to assemble and includes securing the legs with the included hardware. Additionally, all the accessories came packaged in smaller boxes and were clearly labeled with their functions.

After plugging in the AC cord and flipping the power switch, users are greeted with the simple setup screen and prompted to select a language, configure Wi-Fi, pick a region, and log in/create a Speediance account. Alternatively, users can proceed as a guest to get started immediately.

The home screen is a bit daunting as it includes many workouts broken into categories ranging from focusing on specific workouts, i.e., HITT, Strength, etc., to week-long programs to particular types of movements. However, Speediance put "Gym Monster 101" at the top in a large banner to help users get familiar with the machine before diving into all the features.

The standout feature of the GM2 is the massive 21.5-inch 1080p HD touchscreen with built-in dual speakers and a subwoofer, an upgrade over the original Gym Monster. Unfortunately, users must rely on Speediance and Apple Music to provide music for their workouts as there is no option to pair a device to stream music. Second are the dual 800w PMSM motors, each able to put out 110 lbs of digital weight for a combined total weight of 220 lbs. These motors also have smoother weight delivery, an improvement over the first Gym Monster.

As for software, the GM2 comes equipped with 549 workouts, 103 weekly programs, and 604 guided movements for users to experience. The GM2 also includes a free lift program for users who want a more traditional weight-lifting experience. Currently, all of these features are free to owners of the Gym Monster 2, including access to the AI-powered Wellness+ subscription geared towards helping users navigate their fitness journey with AI-powered workout plans and body monitoring. Unfortunately, after June 1st, 2025, users will have to subscribe to Wellness+ to keep using its features. 

The Gym Monster 2 came with an abundance of accessories, all of which help users dial in their movements and exercises to different areas of the body. Additionally, non-workout-specific accessories include the adjustable bench and the Bluetooth ring for wireless weight management. All of the accessories included have a premium feel to them and are an essential aspect of maintaining the variety of exercises available on the GM2

The Gym Monster 2 provides a unique workout experience with its strengths and weaknesses regarding its digital weight management. The guided workouts are thorough and offer a whole-body experience that makes use of the machine, but they also include movements that take place off of the machine, like mountain climbers and post-workout stretches. While these guided workouts are a solid starting point for those seeking a pre-planned regiment and pleasantly gamified experience, the free lift setting has been the most utilized feature in testing.

Free Lift showcases the raw power available from the Gym Monster 2. The minimal settings offer users an easy way to jump into a strength training workout. The standard weight mode is excellent for those looking for a standard weight lifting experience, but the chain and eccentric weight modes bring a dynamic experience unique to the GM2. In this mode, the weight changes depending on whether the user is pushing or pulling in a rep, which results in altered biomechanics in these movements. The weight also changes depending on the force being exerted, and if any of the assist modes are enabled, the GM2 will automatically lower or disengage the weight appropriately. Another option is to use the Bluetooth ring to manage the weight, but truthfully, maintaining the ring's battery life and the general tediousness of its operation has been less than desirable.

Furthermore, the motors habitually pull in little bursts when the weight is fully disengaged, resulting in some difficulty while trying to set the barbell in its holder. While this is to be expected, considering the weight is purely digital, it did take a bit of getting used to. However, this has not inhibited the use of the GM2, as the rotating display and assist features have been perfectly sufficient for a session.

The GM2 provides a premium workout experience that is approachable and does not take up a giant chunk of space. Pairing your device with the speakers would be great, and some accessories could be better, but the Gym Monster 2 offers a solid foundation to start one's fitness journey.