When workouts became more of a chore, tech journalist Luke Edwards decided to bring the workout home. The jump to home workouts came with unexpected benefits, Velcroed squat racks and all. With AI intelligence, a sleek space-saving design, and serious lifting power, the Speediance Gym Monster 2 has reshaped the very idea of training in the comfort of one’s dwelling.
“I’ve never been so motivated,” he stated after testing the setup for several weeks. This home gym system reconfirms the growth of home fitness equipment with its unique features and capabilities. Remote weight training has gained tremendous power, efficiency, and flexibility through technological advancements.
Compact Power, Maximum Utility
The all-in-one home gym trims Edwards’ prior experience with trainer-grade devices. Now, it’s branded with elite, high-quality, and stylish tech. As if it is anything else, the Gym Monster 2 is also a space-conserving training aid. It elevates set- and rep-specific equipment to bench height so users gain ergonomic training precision. Right beside the squat-free augmented deadlift station, of course.
Even during compact mode, which appears half the size of a wardrobe, the extended squat-deadlift portion is still ten and a half inches larger than most cardiovascular machines. That makes it an invaluable companion for renters or users without dedicated gym space.
Even with its size, it is still quite effective. “I was surprised how effective the squat, deadlift, push, and pull options were,” noted Edwards. The Gym Monster 2 is equipped with a durable pulley system that widens the range of classic exercises to be performed without needing cumbersome free weights.
AI That Truly Supports Your Training
As with any other training program offered by Speediance, their workout customization, real-time guidance, and suggestions based on set goals are all powered by AI—making all of them seamless. Moreover, the experience is further enhanced by a 21.5-inch HD touchscreen display and 2.1 channel speakers, which provide non-passive classes akin to personal training sessions.
The highlighted functionality that stands out the most is assist mode, which detects difficulty during exercise and reduces the machine’s automatic resistance to allow for enabling the completion of the repetition safely. As Edwards mentions, “It’s like having a spotter with you.” Users are able to push their limits knowing that they have that safety net to catch any injuries.
Achieve Your Objectives
Included in The Gym Monster 2 are advanced training options like Eccentric Mode that place resistance both during the lift and the lowering phase of the movement to enhance muscle recruitment. Also included is Chain mode, which simulates the effect of real-life chains increasing load throughout the rep. These advances are not just fads; they truly provide users with a performance edge and aid users in training more efficiently.
The listed base setup comes with a flat bench, barbell, ankle straps, tricep rope, handles, and a Bluetooth heart-rate ring. For customers seeking more, there are aftermarket rowing and adjustable bench features available. Quality comes at a cost, with pricing starting at $3649 and reaching $4199 for the Family Plus edition.
Gains With Easier Accessibility
Edwards, a former frequent gym-goer focusing on basic strength-supportive exercise, is now using the Gym Monster 2 and achieving similar and at times better results. In his own words, “Thanks to the wire-based safety, I was more willing to push myself.”
“For the full range of motion lifts, I can assure you, there is zero wobble and rock-solid support. I was very relaxed even at maximum loads.”
A Few Missed Reps
Like all systems, this one has its imperfections. In this case, the initial WiFi connection required lowering the router’s security settings, a solution that Edwards flagged as problematic. Edwards also pointed out other usability oversights, like the requirement to press a screen situated behind the user to activate weights during the movement—especially awkward for someone performing a bench press. “Voice commands or start after a timer functions would increase safety and ease of use,” he offered.
Changing exercise profiles and moving between different attachments isn’t without its flow-breaking interruptions, too. The frame provides substantial resistance but does not replicate the experience of lifting free weights. It straddles the space between safety and raw effort, which may be off-putting for dedicated strength training enthusiasts.
Subscription-Free—For Now
No monthly contract is a definite plus when it comes to these workout classes. But note that on June 1, 2025, Speediance will start charging for the Wellness+ AI features geared towards guidance.
Verdict: A Future-Fit Gym You Will Physically Engage With
The Speediance Gym Monster 2 is perhaps the only example of a small form factor, AI-powered gym that delivers on its promises. Its advanced training features, adequate resistance, and engagement tools enhance user motivation and participation. “This is a superb way to safely push your strength gains forward,” Edwards added. Though some users may balk at the sticker price, in the long run—particularly for avid home gym users—it could prove more beneficial than their initial investment.
