Good to see other companies innovating in this value space, but I see no real reason to ditch the step yet. I bought it based on your recommendation and it still works great.
Not bad for the price! I made my own from professional cutting board and hockey pucks but the board itself cost over $50 plus pucks and almost as much as Geku after screws and hockey tape to prevent friction against the pucks... not to mention labor involved with building it yourself.
Appreciate the review. I had originally purchased the Geku 3pc Bar and the Board but decided while it was in transit to go with the X3. I had mentioned in another comment to one of your other videos that I wasn’t a big fan of the usable length of the bar so I also purchased the X3 Long Bar. Anyhow, I think the Geku board is much better than the X3 steel board. I may repurchase it since I sent it back after my change of mind. I’m also considering the Harambe T Plate as I like the weight and size of it when considering travel. Harambe T Plate specs say 19x10” and 2.2” thick at $129. The X3 plate is very similar to the T plate specs and I find squats to be kinda cramped not being able to have a wider stance. Not a deal breaker but definitely something to get use to. Edit: 7/17/24 I got “The Step” on prime day for $25.50 so looking forward to trying it. I’m only 5’9” so hoping it will help with pre-stretch.
It is possible. I think the plastic isn't band and is pretty slick, but it would be good to check them here and there just to be sure they aren't worn down.
I see comments on the bands rubbing. Has anyone tried to put one or two of those band wraps made for reducing abrasion on? Has anybody tried to polish the edges of the platform with extra fine grit sandpaper?
I have the "band guard" but I dont use it with either platform. I've never had one snap/rip on me for this reason. Sometimes getting them leveled can be annoying, but other than that, I haven't had any other issues.
This looks like a game changer. I have the X3 plate but the metal edges make me hesitant to use my bands on them. I have $20 in Amazon credits so I will definitely invest in this. I like the step platform but it did get uncomfortable at times.
Man I'm really looking forward to your follow up on the Serious Steel bands. Been contemplating getting those but afraid of that itchiness you described before. Is it any different than Sunpow bands?
Working on the review now! Yes they are different in terms of number of bands, how much resistance they can provide, and just overall quality. It is 3x the price though.
Feeling and pricing other options out there. It is also between these 2 platform products. Of course, I don't run the company and there might be additional costs to the company has to put into pricing the product. There is a point though where I won't pay if another option is cheaper. I am actually still leaning towards The Step as the better option after some additional testing, but we will see :)
@@GamerBody Thats fair, the step is blow molded and only rated for 275 lbs. I know it has held up well for you but definitely not designed for heavy resistance band use. Do you look for the cheapest options because it is resistance band based? And resistance bands are usually synonymous with low cost? Just wondering because you have also reviewed super expensive machines like Speediance and Vitruvian.
I try to find the cheapest options with similar value. Sometimes the more expensive is better, sometimes a cheaper option will come around that blows me away. If I can find the cheaper options that are at or better quality, that is what I recommend. If it is REALLY expensive, the equipment must be well above the cheaper options or have something that really sets it apart. I'd say I tend to be more middleground overall as I personally can't afford super expensive items, but I am willing to go a bit more expensive if the quality or feature I need is there.
Which bands are you using that are ripping? I only ever had the Sunpow snap on me with the Step. The UnderSun from years ago (x-small band) snapped day 1 I had it, but I wasn't standing on the platform when it happened. Since then, the UnderSun never snapped, and the Serious Steel bands have been good so far.
@@GamerBodyall undersun bands! Thankfully I was within warranty and their customer service gave me replacement ones with no issues but I broke two X-Heavy bands within 3 months with the step 💀
At that price you can buy two Geku Boards and use wood glue to glue one on top of the other. That will give it the rise you are looking for. Two Geku boards would still be cheaper than one Harambe.
GEKU had the same problem with the resistance bands bar. Unfortunately I do not know of another spot, but I think they are seeing how much inventory they need and should have a better supply in time.
It goes in and out a lot. It is a new product and this happened when they launched the GEKU bar as well. I think they run tests to see how it will perform, then get manufacturing to make more as it builds up. I don't know for certain as I don't work for GEKU, but just what I observed from the GEKU bar launch and this one.
Mainly due to price. The system I have, even with the pricier board, is $200 cheaper than the X3 or Harambe. You also get the handles and anchor with it. It only gets around the same price if you buy a standalone pull-up bar.
As someone who owns the Geku bar and the x3, it’s worth the investment. I got mine secondhand for really cheap but it’s easily worth the price if it’s your primary means of training. I would recommend at least trying one it’s a night and day difference.
My main issue is the type of band it is. The look band allows for easy changes for exercises that go to your waist, and then a quick change to go above that (something like deadlift vs biceps curl - or single loop vs double loop). The Gorilla bow is not setup this way. Being a bow doesn't really have an advantage either. Cool name, but from what I am seeing, there isn't and major benefit over the setup I already.
Yeah, not sure if it is just being sold out, or if they are having trouble making more to get back the inventory. I see it return every once in a while, but I wonder if they are having issues with it being a newer product.
Just get the harambe system and stop being so cheap with all your crap. And you cannot compare any of your cheap crap or X3, to something like the Harambe System. I hate the owner of the Harambe System, he is a narcissistic a-hole, but the products are amazing.. the bar is smooth, great knurling and the sling system is unmatched in this space, the platform is solid and perfect in it's dimensions... The Harambe Bands... I do not know how they are made, but they are WAY different than any other bands out there, first of all.. they are 38 inches, they are also thicker than all other bands, they have a different stretch and using the "Harambe butter" once a month, keeps the pull of the bands extremely smooth and satisfying. The Harambe Handles are also just the perfect resistance band handles and the way you can use spacers to improve the stretch, both on handles and the bars... yeah.. I wish there were others out there doing it properly, but only Harambe System does it right. A homegym is an invenstment, not a discount storage room & you truly lack knowledge and experience in this space... you can get mad about this comment or not, I don't care, but that's how it is.
I haven't used the Harambe system and I have nothing against it other than price. However, have you used my setup? I think my current one is excellent, intuitive, and way cheaper. Depending on the bands you get will determine the quality and lifespan of the workout, but both UnderSun and Steel Series (so far) have worked very well. If you want to go the more expensive route and think Harambe is better, go for it. I normally aim for middle-ground pricing, not the cheapest, but I will try cheaper options to see if they are at or above more expensive offerings. As an FYI, many who comment on this channel think my setup is too expensive as is so there is no pleasing everyone.
Try using 37" inch bands from SS instead of 41". That'll help with the pre stretch lost from the step platform
Good to see other companies innovating in this value space, but I see no real reason to ditch the step yet. I bought it based on your recommendation and it still works great.
Agreed, The Step Platform is still amazing and some of the pros on it make it nearly impossible for me to switch.
Not bad for the price! I made my own from professional cutting board and hockey pucks but the board itself cost over $50 plus pucks and almost as much as Geku after screws and hockey tape to prevent friction against the pucks... not to mention labor involved with building it yourself.
Appreciate the review. I had originally purchased the Geku 3pc Bar and the Board but decided while it was in transit to go with the X3. I had mentioned in another comment to one of your other videos that I wasn’t a big fan of the usable length of the bar so I also purchased the X3 Long Bar. Anyhow, I think the Geku board is much better than the X3 steel board. I may repurchase it since I sent it back after my change of mind. I’m also considering the Harambe T Plate as I like the weight and size of it when considering travel. Harambe T Plate specs say 19x10” and 2.2” thick at $129. The X3 plate is very similar to the T plate specs and I find squats to be kinda cramped not being able to have a wider stance. Not a deal breaker but definitely something to get use to.
Edit: 7/17/24 I got “The Step” on prime day for $25.50 so looking forward to trying it. I’m only 5’9” so hoping it will help with pre-stretch.
Yayy! So happy you made this I was looking at that board! I'll keep my step board and get some overload straps from vector Athletics instead.
I bought the same plastic platform you use. It works good but i think when the bands rub on the platform it really wears them out.
It is possible. I think the plastic isn't band and is pretty slick, but it would be good to check them here and there just to be sure they aren't worn down.
I see comments on the bands rubbing. Has anyone tried to put one or two of those band wraps made for reducing abrasion on? Has anybody tried to polish the edges of the platform with extra fine grit sandpaper?
I have the "band guard" but I dont use it with either platform. I've never had one snap/rip on me for this reason. Sometimes getting them leveled can be annoying, but other than that, I haven't had any other issues.
I use the Wii balance board and it works very well. Good video.
You use the Wii board with resistance bands? That is interesting. Is there enough space below it for the bands to fit?
This looks like a game changer. I have the X3 plate but the metal edges make me hesitant to use my bands on them. I have $20 in Amazon credits so I will definitely invest in this. I like the step platform but it did get uncomfortable at times.
I started using the serious steel band protector with the X3 floor plate.
Works great that way.
Il b purchasing when Amazon uk hurry’s up
Do you plan on doing a preview on the Serious Steel 37 inch bands?
Yeah, somewhat of a re-review.
Man I'm really looking forward to your follow up on the Serious Steel bands. Been contemplating getting those but afraid of that itchiness you described before. Is it any different than Sunpow bands?
Working on the review now! Yes they are different in terms of number of bands, how much resistance they can provide, and just overall quality. It is 3x the price though.
@@GamerBodyStill cheaper than buying home gym. Lol
True. Both of my other setups are more. All options have pros and cons.
Great idea. I was really interested in a band set up but harambe is very expensive
Is definitely be getting sum 37 inch serious steel bands I reckon
I am curious what are you basing your desired price of $70 on?
Feeling and pricing other options out there. It is also between these 2 platform products. Of course, I don't run the company and there might be additional costs to the company has to put into pricing the product. There is a point though where I won't pay if another option is cheaper. I am actually still leaning towards The Step as the better option after some additional testing, but we will see :)
@@GamerBody Thats fair, the step is blow molded and only rated for 275 lbs. I know it has held up well for you but definitely not designed for heavy resistance band use.
Do you look for the cheapest options because it is resistance band based? And resistance bands are usually synonymous with low cost?
Just wondering because you have also reviewed super expensive machines like Speediance and Vitruvian.
I try to find the cheapest options with similar value. Sometimes the more expensive is better, sometimes a cheaper option will come around that blows me away. If I can find the cheaper options that are at or better quality, that is what I recommend.
If it is REALLY expensive, the equipment must be well above the cheaper options or have something that really sets it apart. I'd say I tend to be more middleground overall as I personally can't afford super expensive items, but I am willing to go a bit more expensive if the quality or feature I need is there.
@@GamerBody Understandable, thank you for replying
Finally! 😊
Does it fit in a cabin trolley?
huh?
I think I'll give this plate a go. I'm already using the same step as you, but it keeps ripping up my bands 😭
Which bands are you using that are ripping? I only ever had the Sunpow snap on me with the Step. The UnderSun from years ago (x-small band) snapped day 1 I had it, but I wasn't standing on the platform when it happened. Since then, the UnderSun never snapped, and the Serious Steel bands have been good so far.
@@GamerBodyall undersun bands! Thankfully I was within warranty and their customer service gave me replacement ones with no issues but I broke two X-Heavy bands within 3 months with the step 💀
@@Lightwing Oh wow! That is pretty crazy. Was it all during the same exercise?
@@GamerBodyYup! It was always either squats or deadlifts. I've settled with using my feet instead until I can find a permanent solution 😅
At that price you can buy two Geku Boards and use wood glue to glue one on top of the other. That will give it the rise you are looking for. Two Geku boards would still be cheaper than one Harambe.
no longer available on Amazon as of tonight.
Yeah seems to be going in and out.
Available again as of 9/20/24.
Are the Geku boards still available? Can’t find them.
It's been in and out. They are new so I think the inventory is low. This happened with the GEKU resistance bands bar as well for a while.
The Step I have is an old version and is 42 inches…is that too wide. Thanks. Im short at 5 6’
I don't think so. I prefer a wider board, but I am 5'11" so if fits my size a bit better. It would be more of your personal preference.
I’m also 5’6”. I recommend Serious Steel 32” and 37” bands. These will also pair perfectly with the GEKU board or any 24” footplate.
The link says the board is unavailable. Do you know where else to get?
GEKU had the same problem with the resistance bands bar. Unfortunately I do not know of another spot, but I think they are seeing how much inventory they need and should have a better supply in time.
Is it out of stock or something?
It goes in and out a lot. It is a new product and this happened when they launched the GEKU bar as well. I think they run tests to see how it will perform, then get manufacturing to make more as it builds up. I don't know for certain as I don't work for GEKU, but just what I observed from the GEKU bar launch and this one.
@@GamerBody that explains it. Hopefully it goes back in stock. Looks perfect for the X3 and any other resistance bands.
Why not just buy an x3 or harambe at this point? Bands have been your primary workout equipment so why not buy the premium equipment?
Because nobody needs them
Because they’re way overpriced for what they are
Mainly due to price. The system I have, even with the pricier board, is $200 cheaper than the X3 or Harambe. You also get the handles and anchor with it. It only gets around the same price if you buy a standalone pull-up bar.
As someone who owns the Geku bar and the x3, it’s worth the investment. I got mine secondhand for really cheap but it’s easily worth the price if it’s your primary means of training. I would recommend at least trying one it’s a night and day difference.
I’d stick to the old platform mate
I love mine. Very comfortable to stand on barefoot.
$313 for the GEKU on Amazon here in Australia!! WTF??
Oof that is a lot. I like the bar, but not sure I like it that much.
Gamerbody have you ever tried the Gorilla bar?
Do you mean the Gorilla bow? I have not tired it. I don't like the bands they use with that one at all as I go with the loop bands.
@GamerBody They use the lifeline bands!!!! Top notch quality super durable compared to bodylastic or iron infidel bands!!!!
My main issue is the type of band it is. The look band allows for easy changes for exercises that go to your waist, and then a quick change to go above that (something like deadlift vs biceps curl - or single loop vs double loop). The Gorilla bow is not setup this way. Being a bow doesn't really have an advantage either. Cool name, but from what I am seeing, there isn't and major benefit over the setup I already.
Still unavailable on Amazon. So I'll stick to my Step Platform. Oh well!
Yeah, not sure if it is just being sold out, or if they are having trouble making more to get back the inventory. I see it return every once in a while, but I wonder if they are having issues with it being a newer product.
I saw another channel using a Wii fitness board as a band board. He said it worked well and was only a few dollars second hand.
Haha that is awesome. Does it have a slot for the bands to fit in?
@@GamerBody Please review this method! I’d be cool to use a Wii Board!
Just get the harambe system and stop being so cheap with all your crap. And you cannot compare any of your cheap crap or X3, to something like the Harambe System.
I hate the owner of the Harambe System, he is a narcissistic a-hole, but the products are amazing.. the bar is smooth, great knurling and the sling system is unmatched in this space, the platform is solid and perfect in it's dimensions... The Harambe Bands... I do not know how they are made, but they are WAY different than any other bands out there, first of all.. they are 38 inches, they are also thicker than all other bands, they have a different stretch and using the "Harambe butter" once a month, keeps the pull of the bands extremely smooth and satisfying.
The Harambe Handles are also just the perfect resistance band handles and the way you can use spacers to improve the stretch, both on handles and the bars... yeah.. I wish there were others out there doing it properly, but only Harambe System does it right.
A homegym is an invenstment, not a discount storage room & you truly lack knowledge and experience in this space... you can get mad about this comment or not, I don't care, but that's how it is.
I haven't used the Harambe system and I have nothing against it other than price. However, have you used my setup? I think my current one is excellent, intuitive, and way cheaper. Depending on the bands you get will determine the quality and lifespan of the workout, but both UnderSun and Steel Series (so far) have worked very well. If you want to go the more expensive route and think Harambe is better, go for it. I normally aim for middle-ground pricing, not the cheapest, but I will try cheaper options to see if they are at or above more expensive offerings. As an FYI, many who comment on this channel think my setup is too expensive as is so there is no pleasing everyone.
@@GamerBody *facepalm*
@@Somtric nopalm
@@GamerBody *facepalm*
@@Somtric Clench has a better plate and now a better bar (on preorder) if you're going to pay that much.