While commercial gyms are found professionally installed in member-based health clubs, there are several kinds of the multi station gym for the home. These home gyms typically have several features in common with the larger commercial variety. Multi station gyms offer a multitude of options for serious and casual workouts alike.

Larger multi station gyms can have two or more of these frames set several feet apart. These can be connected by one or more horizontal cross over bars, which are ideal of pull-ups. Basic multi station gyms consist of a four-sided "jungle gym" frame with a station on each side, 3-4 weight stacks in its center, and a system of pulleys and cables overhead.

The most important differences in multi station home gyms is that they are rather smaller, easier to assemble, and less expensive. The cost ranges from several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on factors like brand and functionality, but costs of assembly and maintenance over the years also have to be factored in. Typically, only a set of wrenches and rachets is needed for assembly, but checking with the sales rep is advised in case any special assembly or pre-assembly is needed.

While these systems tend to be more complex than their larger cousins, the overall savings in space, especially in a small home or garage environment, can more than make up for the difference. To save space without eliminating features and capabilities, the number of weight stacks in a typical home unit may be reduced to one or two and complemented by a larger network of cables, pulleys and elastic bands.

You will find garden variety stations like a pull-down bar, chest press, leg press and, to be sure, the bench press in most common type of gyms. If you want a full body workout experience then its better to look for accessories like ropes and individual attachments which can increase the type of activities of your daily routine.

When compared to the space requirements of free weight stacks arranged in a similar format, these compact gyms are a more efficient way to economize space. On top of that they're safe for all ages and easy to maintain. Like most conventional weight stacks, no power is needed.