Resistance band training has exploded in popularity thanks to systems like the Gorilla Bow that promise to sculpt lean muscle and shred fat through strategic band-based workouts.
With its sleek bow design and endorsement from fitness influencers, the Gorilla Bow has gained significant hype since its launch. But before splurging over $200 on this seemingly novel system, it pays to compare it to the top competitors offering similar full-body resistance training capabilities.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the Gorilla Bow to five leading alternatives – Gymproluxe, Total Gym Fit, Optimize Strength Bands, TRX, and X3 Bar. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each system, key features, price, and ideal user to determine how the Gorilla Bow stacks up.
Use this analysis to make an informed decision on the resistance band system that best aligns with your budget, training needs, and goals.
Alternatives To Gorilla Bow
Here is a list of its close competitors:
- Gymproluxe
- Redge Fit
- Total Gym Fit
- Optimize Strength Resistance Bands
- Fit Simplicity Resistance
- TRX Suspension Trainer
- X3 Bar
- Core Athletica Power Tower
Let’s talk about them in detail:
Gymproluxe Overview
Gymproluxe offers a variety of resistance band systems, but their power band home gym provides the closest alternative to the Gorilla Bow.
This compact station allows you to combine resistance band and cable training for both the upper and lower body.
Add weights for added challenge. Easy cable adjustments allow fluid movement between exercises.
Pros
- Combines bands and cables for diverse training
- Compact, space saving design
- Smooth transitions between movements
- Upper and lower body exercise variety
- Beginner friendly and easy to configure
Cons
- Cables can’t provide heaviest loading
- Fixed cable points limit certain motions
- Less durable than commercial gym quality
Price: $150
Ideal For: Beginner to intermediate lifters with limited space seeking diverse band/cable training.
Redge Fit
This adjustable resistance band system allows you to quickly shift between band tensions and grips for both upper and lower body exercises.
Pros
- Smooth band resistance adjustments
- Variety for upper and lower body
- Space saving compact design
- Easier transitions than standalone bands
Cons
- Resistance maxes at 200 lbs
- Less durable than commercial systems
- Lower quality than Gorilla Bow
Price: $179
Ideal For: Beginners to intermediate lifters wanting an adjustable band station for home use.
Total Gym Fit Overview
This compact home gym replaces resistance bands with cable pulleys and bodyweight leverage for resistance. The adjustable cables allow over 60 exercises working all major muscle groups.
Though not strictly a band system, the Total Gym Fit provides similar full body training capabilities in a streamlined design.
Pros
- Leverages bodyweight and cables
- Smooth transitions between motions
- Over 60 exercise variations
- Adjustable cable resistance
- Space saving design
Cons
- Higher price than cheaper band systems
- Cables only provide moderate resistance
- Not as portable as bands
Price: $599
Ideal For: Those seeking diverse bodyweight and cable training in a sleek system. Best for beginners and casual lifters.
Fit Simplicity Resistance Bands
This resistance band bundle includes multiple band resistances, handles, ankle straps, door anchor and accessories for full body training.
Pros
- 5 tiered resistance band levels
- Lightweight and portable
- 200+ exercise options
- Budget-friendly under $50
Cons
- Requires manual setup between motions
- Not a consolidated system
- Band durability varies
Price: $49.95
Ideal For: Beginners and casual lifters wanting an affordable versatile band set.
Optimize Strength Resistance Bands Overview
This complete resistance band set provides a variety of band types, handles, accessories, and door anchor. The variety allows you to perform over 150 exercises targeting all major muscle groups.
Though not a consolidated system, the individual components allow equal versatility to systems like the Gorilla Bow.
Pros
- Most affordable band system option
- Variety allows over 150 exercises
- Progressive band resistance levels
- Light and extremely portable
- Durable thick latex bands
Cons
- Not a consolidated system
- Must rig up bands for each movement
- Can’t match heavier gym resistance
Price: $69.99
Ideal For: Budget seekers wanting a comprehensive resistance band set for full body training. Great for travel.
TRX Suspension Trainer Overview
The TRX uses adjustable straps suspended from anchors to leverage bodyweight for resistance. Users perform pushing, pulling and stabilizing movements through a wide range of angles and positions.
Though a different training style than resistance bands, TRX provides dynamic resistance for similar total body strengthening.
Pros
- Leverages bodyweight from all angles
- Hundreds of exercise variations
- Lightweight and portable
- Built to last with proper care
Cons
- Requires sturdy anchor point
- Not as beginner friendly as bands
- Can’t match heaviest band resistance
Price: $169.95
Ideal For: Intermediate to advanced lifters seeking dynamic bodyweight training. Better for pull motions than push.
X3 Bar Overview
Unlike the other band and cable systems, the X3 Bar uses patented resistance cords made of compressed elastomer. Users stand on the cords for squats, presses and other full body movements.
The X3 Bar provides an alternative form of resistant cord training.
Pros
- Innovative elastomer cord system
- Full body exercise variety
- Smooth, steel bar construction
- Allows progressive overload
Cons
- Limited cord resistance (200 lb max)
- Fewer exercise options than Gorilla Bow
- High price for resistance levels
Price: $319
Ideal For: Lifters interested in the unique X3 Bar elastomer cord system for strength training. Best for building foundational strength.
Core Athletica Power Tower
This multigym power tower combines a pull-up bar, resistance bands, dip station and push-up handles for full body training in one compact unit.
Pros
- Combines bodyweight and bands
- Compact, space-saving design
- Upper and lower body exercise variety
- Adjustable width push-up grips
Cons
- Low weight limit of 220 lbs
- Limited band resistance
- Higher price than basic band sets
Price: $189.99
Ideal For: Beginners wanting a budget power tower with bodyweight and band options.
Now that we’ve broken down the key features, pros, cons and ideal user for each system, here is how they compare to the Gorilla Bow:
- Gymproluxe – provides the most similar overall resistance training capabilities in a compact system for a lower price point. But the Gorilla Bow offers a more polished, innovative design.
- Total Gym Fit – delivers diverse bodyweight/cable training but doesn’t match the band resistance or exercise variety of the Gorilla Bow. Better for casual training versus committed strength building.
- Optimize Strength Bands – offer the most affordable way to perform comparable exercises to the Gorilla Bow but requires more rigging up between motions. Great budget alternative.
- TRX – provides a dynamic form of full body training through leveraged bodyweight but requires more conditioning. More learning curve than bands for beginners.
- X3 Bar – offers a unique elastomer cord system but with fewer exercise options, higher price tag, and overlap with the Gorilla Bow bands.
Overall, for under $200, the Gymproluxe resistance band system likely provides the most similar experience and value to the Gorilla Bow.
But the Gorilla Bow stands out in terms of its consolidated bow-shaped band design and smooth user experience for its price point. So those attracted to its specific bow functionality and willing to spend over $200 may find it still justifies the cost compared to alternatives.
Key Factors In Deciding Between Resistance Band Systems
All these band systems can build strength, muscle and burn fat with regular training. But consider these key factors when deciding between the Gorilla Bow and lower-cost competitors:
- Your Budget – Those with sub-$150 budgets get the most versatility from standalone resistance band sets like Optimize Strength. Compact systems run from $150 for Gymproluxe, $200+ for Gorilla Bow and $500+ for Total Gym Fit.
- Ideal User Level – Beginners often find Gymproluxe easiest to configure while the Gorilla Bow better suits intermediate users. TRX has more learning curve than bands.
- Training Goals – The Gorilla Bow, bands and TRX all suffice for general strength building. But lifters seeking max muscle mass may prefer heavier lifting progressions elsewhere long-term.
- Available Space – Resistance bands store anywhere while systems like Total Gym Fit take up more floor space when not stowed away.
- Workout Variety – Those who bore easily benefit from systems like Total Gym Fit with dozens of possible movements. Repeat exercisers may fare fine with limited band options.
- Portability – Light bands allow training anywhere but consolidated systems offer smooth transitions between motions during home workouts. Assess your portability needs.
By considering these key factors in relation to the pros, cons, price and ideal user outlined for each system above, you can determine the best resistance band home gym for your unique needs and budget.
While the Gorilla Bow carries prestige, its competitors match or even exceed its capabilities at lower price points for many users. Apply the insights from this comparative guide to feel confident choosing the most strategic resistance training system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For some people the Gorilla Bow is worth the $200+ investment. Those who are committed to consistent resistance band training, appreciate the all-in-one design, and have the budget will get good value from the Gorilla Bow. However, for more casual users on a tighter budget, the cheaper alternatives in this guide provide similar full body training capabilities at a fraction of the cost.
Yes, the Gorilla Bow resistance bands allow you to build muscle through full body strength training, like most resistance-based systems. But building muscle requires using progressive overload and challenging resistance levels consistently over time. If seeking major muscle growth, adjustable free weights may provide heavier loading potential long-term versus resistance bands which are limited by their tension levels.
Glute bands can be substituted with looped resistance bands or mini bands to provide the same type of lateral resistance for activating your glutes in movements like clamshells, donkey kicks, and side steps. Looped resistance bands that fit around your legs or ankles serve this purpose well at a low cost.
The Gymproluxe resistance band system provides an affordable alternative to the Gorilla Bow at around $150. For those seeking a compact home system for band and cable training, the Gymproluxe delivers good value and versatility. But for more casual users, cheaper options like standalone resistance bands or free weights may be sufficient. As with any system, ensure you will use it consistently before investing.
Bottom Line
Resistance bands remain one of the most affordable and effective ways to build strength with minimal equipment directly from home. Systems like the Gorilla Bow provide an all-in-one consolidated solution for band-based training.
But before investing in the Gorilla Bow, analyze whether more budget-friendly competitors like Gymproluxe resistance bands or TRX suspension training better match your abilities, training style, space constraints and budget.
Any of these systems combined with hard work will reap results. Select the band equipment optimal for your needs to maximize workout enjoyment and long-term consistency on your fitness journey.