For many of us, the days of regular gym trips are a thing of the past and home workouts are where it’s at. Whether you’re looking to increase your exercise intensity, avert boredom, or simply see what everybody’s talking about, a digital home workout device can help you achieve your fitness goals. While their price tags may initially cause some degree of sticker shock, two of the most popular non-bike options include Tonal and Mirror. Read on for everything you need to know about Tonal vs. Mirror—including how their cost compares to a typical gym membership. The numbers may surprise you
Everything you need to know if you’re considering The Mirror
Billed as a nearly invisible interactive home gym, the Mirror is a reflective smart screen that hangs on your wall and broadcasts live and recorded virtual fitness classes plus one-on-one training sessions. It can be used with a heart rate monitor or smart watch for accountability as well as various fitness props such a free weights, although these cost extra. Another cool feature—so long as you don’t mind being in the spotlight when you sweat—is a camera that enables instructors to see you doing your thing. When you’re not using your Mirror, it passes as a full-length mirror—a good thing for those who are iffy about filling their space with bulky fitness equipment.
How much does The Mirror cost?
A basic Mirror package costs $995 (not including tax). It includes the device plus a stand, lens cap, and standard warranty. You’ll pay $200 extra ($1,195 total) for a heart rate monitor, fitness band, and collection of Lululemon gear including a mat, mat strap, yoga block, and mini foam roller packaged as “Mirror Essentials.” For an extra $200 ($1,295 total), you can also get a pair of Mirror weights and a workout towel. Or you could splurge on the Mirror Family package which includes two of almost all of the accessories ($1,545). All Mirror packages also require a monthly membership, which costs $39 per month with a minimum one-year commitment. This includes up to six profiles. For comparison, you’ll spend $1,463 on a basic Mirror package and membership during your first year (not including tax), which comes out to about $122 per month—that’s a little less than a typical monthly Equinox membership (estimated at $185 per month).
What are the dimensions of The Mirror?
The Mirror measures 22.4 inches wide, 56.0 inches high, and 1.4 inches deep. You only need 2 feet of wall space to install it—plus enough room to stand in front of it, of course. Because it weighs 70 pounds, it’s not necessarily something you’d want to roll out every time you want to work out.
How long does it take and how much does it cost to have the Mirror installed?
Once you order your Mirror, delivery typically takes between 7 and 14 business days. Upon delivery, a Mirror representative will install your Mirror on on the wall or on its stand (which is included with your purchase). All it will cost you is 30 to 45 minutes—delivery and installation is free.
Everything you need to know if you’re considering Tonal
Tonal is a digital strength-training pulley system that uses magnets and electricity instead of weights to create resistance equivalent to 200 pounds. Its functionality falls just short of black magic, with optional modes that automatically increase the weight as you get stronger to promote constant progress, or adjust resistance throughout your movement so your muscles don’t get to take a load off during the easiest parts of exercises. The device can also sense when the going gets tough, like on the last rep of your third set, and reduce the load. Tonal comes with a touchscreen display for live instructor-led classes and real-time coaching, plus 17 sensors to provide guidance on form and technique.
How much does Tonal cost?
Tonal costs $2,995 plus $495 for “Smart Accessories” which include handles, a bar, a rope, a bench, a roller, and a mat. You’ll also spend an additional $49/month on membership fees, which are required for the first 12 months. To put things in perspective, you’ll spend $3,583 on the device and membership during your first year (not including tax). That’s the equivalent of about $299 per month which is more than most premium gym memberships but less than the average American pays each month for a car. And you won’t need one of those to shuttle yourself to the gym if you’re working out at home.
What are the dimensions of Tonal?
The Tonal device measures 21.50 inches wide, 50.9 inches high, and 5.25 inches deep. Its makers recommend installing Tonal in a 7-by-7 foot floor space with at least 7 feet of unobstructed wall space and a ceiling that’s at least 7 feet 10 inches high. Beware that the device weighs 250 pounds so it’s not something you’ll want to (or be able to) move once it’s professionally installed.
How long does it take and how much does it cost to have Tonal installed?
Tonal is typically delivered and installed within two to four weeks of purchase. Delivery and installation costs $250 with additional fees in Alaska and Hawaii. It includes connecting Tonal to WiFi, pairing Bluetooth Smart accessories, and sorting out any account issues to you can get right into your first workout.
Tonal Vs The Mirror: Which one is right for you?
When making a sizable investment in home gym equipment, no one wants to make the wrong decision. But Tonal and Mirror can both be fantastic at-home training options, assuming your budget allows, saysJake Boly, certified strength and conditioning coach and founder of That Fit Friend, a training gear review site. The main difference between Tonal and Mirror is the cable system: The Mirror doesn’t have one. “With Mirror workouts, you’ll need your own body weight or a few free weights,” Boly says. “If you like tackling bodyweight workouts, yoga, and free weight sessions, then Mirror is a great option.” On the other hand, Tonal may be better for people who want to increase their strength. “Their means of scaling load by making micro-adjustments can be awesome for anyone trying to build muscle,” Boly says, adding that Tonal’s tension system beats free weights when growth and strength are your goals. At the end of the day, “the personalities that you work with on each platform can greatly help with excitement and adherence toward training,” Boly says. “These are both huge for those who want to get in great workouts at home.” And hey, who doesn’t? Next up: Is Rollerblading a Good Workout?
Sources
Mirror.coTonalJake Boly, certified strength and conditioning coach and founder of That Fit Friend
