Drop your preferences and comments below if you have any of these bars. Like all products, you can list objective benefits over one versus another, but really interested in hearing your general personal preferences. Also worth noting is that my use of one bar over another might change in the future. This video is just on which one I gravitate towards most often in a general workout. Promo Code "MIKE" for X3 and "SLIDINGBENCHTRAINER" on Harambe. There's also WAY cheaper options which I've covered as well on the channel including using a simple pipe.
I used the X3 for 2 years. Once I swapped to the Harambe longer heavier Kbar I broke through plateaus. I really did not like being trapped in by bands rubbing all over me especially during squats and OHP! With the smaller bar. Also graduating from 41” bands to 38” was a game changer
I know I've mentioned it several times on your videos, but the hooks alone are the big reason I am loyal to X3 between the two! I'm the absolute laziest at changing weight plates or other things when working out at home, so the easier and more convenient the better. I probably would've argued size, but since Harambe made the T Bar, that'd probably fit my preferences just fine. When people ask me about what I do, I always recommend they look into Harambe, too, and decide for themselves. Also as a home workout piece, I really like the light weight for storage and practicality in a small apartment. I think over time I'd probably like some of the flexibility of Harambe's sling system, but I really only have a couple workouts I foresee myself caring about that for. Maybe one day I'll buy one to use specifically for those!
I've owned the X3 for 2 years before investing in Harambe. I just hit a year with Harambe. I appreciate the X3 for getting me back in shape and introducing me to bands. The gains Harambe gave me is unmatched. Over 90% of the time I use Harambe products and bands. It's not just because of the wider footplate and longer bar(X3 deadlifts just wreck my back and hips for some reason). Harambe has less variable resistance and more ROM meaning it feels more like weights. I am objectively much stronger using Harambe products and programming. Moving furniture, carrying boxes, picking people up. I go back and use the X3 from time to time, and I'm blown away by how much easier everything is. Over the summer I lifted weights for 2 weeks. The amount I could lift was comparble to how much I could lift with Harambe lb for lb. I really only use the X3 when I travel, deload or get hurt doing something stupid because of it's crazy variable resistance, but then I remember that Harambe has the potential for higher variable resistance and use it anyway.
After getting an X3 I went with a Harambe T bar. The few advantages of the Harambe are it's smoother, the longer size fits me better, the sling system is superior because it's better at stacking and adjustable with the spacers. Coincidentally, I pfefer the X3 program.
I have the Xbar3 standard and long bar. I bought the long bar because I was used to a wider grip and thought I needed it. I would alternate push days short bar and pull days long bar. But after a few weeks. The short bar just felt right and I no longer use the long bar. My two cents.
But if you could only purchase 1 set of bands would you use the standard x3, the para force or the harambe. If price was not an option or restrictions (i know you cant purchase paraforce unless you are already a x3 customer)
I actually had a minute segment on the bands but deleted it because I thought I'd focus on the bars, wish I didn't. But in summary (again just my personal preference), my favorite set of bands are the paraforce 41in bands. The Harambe bands are very very built and the strongest (in strength) to any band, but I just prefer a little more stretch and the 41in length.
I’ve got the X3 bar. It fits me fine. I’m 6’-2” with broad shoulders and it fits me fine. No problems. My son is back home from uni and is on his second week of X3 workouts, no complaints about the size of the bar. He’s 6’-4” and bigger and stronger than me. He only complains about how hard he’s working!! Mike, one of the biggest upsides of X3 user group. They help with any questions and one can video their form and the trainers will help out. It’s quite the value add in my book.
I have both the X3 and Harambe systems, both are amazing, I will say Harambe has variety but X3 is easier to travel with and quick, with Harambe if you wanted to travel it’s better to go with the T bundle and they do have the better footplate, but on X3 the bar with the hooks is easier than the slings, rods and ropes Harambe has, so to me for travel I would choose X3, for more options and home system I would go with Harambe, best way I can describe them is Harambe is variety and X3 less is more.
I would say don’t worry so much about what you think people want you to say. Just give your honest opinion, which you do but no need to worry about making the perceived “correct choice”. I’ve got a DIY setup I’m going to try in January when I finish my 12 week dumbbell program. If I like the bar/band/board system I’ll probably go with Harambe just because I think the owner/creator seems like a better person and isn’t on gear. I would just feel better about spending my money with them than X3.
It basically doesn't turn on. I'll charge it (sometimes no light comes on), then when I unplug it the light goes on, works for a few days that repeats the issue. So I've given up on it.
@@hybridresistance Thanks, I went ahead and bought the basic X3 bar and I'm super happy with it. I'm gonna and the Clench handles, footplate and wall attachments as I progress.
Great review, when you said that you might prefer doing chest press and over head shoulder press with the x3 longer bar is that because you feel a little bit restricted with the standard x3 bar with those two exercises? I think you mentioned once or put a video about a professional weight lifter talking about the benefits of doing the shoulder press with a narrow grip and it's benefits, do you still have that link please.Thanks.
That would be Mark Rippetoe who makes a biomechanical case why close grip is better, but I really think ultimately (myself included) to listen to your body and experiment. I do personally think a closer grip is better though, yes.
I seen that Clench Fitness is coming out with their own resistance band bar which looks pretty interesting, being a satisfied customer I'll definitely be purchasing it that's if the price tag doesn't break the bank being on a budget.
What I really like about the Clench Fitness Nexus bar is the dual usage with both bands and weight plates. I can hardly wait for your review on it. @@hybridresistance
Bodylastics bar less expensive and better. Also breaks down for travel. I have a friend that got one for his tonal. I’m not a Bodylastics sales person. Just a happy. customer for over 10 years now.
I have both Harambe bars. I use the K bar at home and the T bar on the road. I wouldn't buy the X3 because of Jaquish's sales policy (you have to buy this to have the privilege of buying that) and his ultra arrogant style. "Weight lifting is a waste of time" is obviously b.s. The foot plate in the Harambe system is also far superior. I like the idea of the force bar, hopefully Harambe will come out with something similar.
Thank you for another great review. I can only compare the X3 bars: standard and long. I definitely prefer the standard bar. I purchased the GEKU X3 as a gift and tried it. It's ok. I almost always use the Paraforce bands. I left the gym to use only X3 and sprinting plus I modified my diet to carnivore. I have completed the initial 3-month X3 program and will begin adding more sets. Dr Mike Isratel (YT Renaissance Periodization) explains very well why most people do not respond to the 1 set principles of Mike Menzer but need multiple sets of RIR (3 reps in reserve). Best of luck to all of us in this new year.
I love your content and opinions on the systems I have the X3 and love it would not trade it in for anything !!!! But I have one question about the band's of the other system are they good because I have the paraforce band's and love them I've also been told directly by X3 that they will have a elite paraforce band I can't wait!!!!
Re. the bands for both systems - I'm guessing that you didn't feel the difference in use between the make of bands had any affect on your preferences? i.e. did the difference in resistance curve feel better for Harambe or X3? Or was there nothing in it?
I actually do have a Harambe band video I'll link it below. They are the best quality bands and the strongest, but I personally prefer the paraforce x3 bands (NOT the stock X3 bands). You again can argue what is objectively better for strength curve, but I'm just going off my personal preference. ruclips.net/video/_7xVakEWM2c/видео.html
In full transparency, they're actually equal at 10%. I appreciate Khalid for the increase. But don't let that sway you as I've said in a few videos, if these are too expensive, just get a lead pipe and you're good.
I had all three x3 models. I couldn’t stand the non independent rotation of the elite bar. You have to be extremely careful on heavy presses. The hooks can bind and suddenly release causing some to have the bar slip out. The first two bars never did that but hooks would grind the housing. Joz likes to tell people it’s improper use. One can film the housings move ever so slightly under pressure squeezing the washers. They got Chinese bars with true olympic collars with hooks. No problems. I never understood why x3 can’t do that. Yet Joz still claims it works like an Olympic bar. Never had a Harambe bar bind up. Zero problems with their system. Use whatever one likes. I prefer Soloflex for my main band work. Free weights for strength.
ive been using the knockoff x3 bar (geku) and the hooks are key. messing with carabiners (and i assume slings) is just so annoying. i plan on buying a real x3 bar in a few months
Harambe is a much better system, and more customizable. Their platform is designed for tall people with long legs as well, as short. I also have the X3 short, and long bar, as well as the GEKU FIT x3 customizable bar which i've been using at home in place of the X3 bar. I find it to be very strong, as well as portable. That X3 short bar does not work my chest. I feel it in my shoulders. The Harambe way of doing the chest press on the floor propped up feels like a chest press, and not a shoulder press.
I own the Harambe System (about 3 months now). I seriously think it is one of the best purchases i have ever made in my life. The sling system works great, and does not slow me down any more than it would changing weight plates at the gym. The variable rope lengths, spacers, and options to cusomize the load for progressive overload makes this absolutely superior to X3. I cant believe the gains I am getting...Seriously, this is better than my gym membership (and Harambe gave me the confidence to cancel my membership yesterday!) Disclaimer, I haven't tried X3 but i researched both systems exhaustively prior to purchase and couldn't be happier with my choice. The X3 bar just looks lame in comparison IMO. I am sure it is nice for travel, but for a home gym replacement I cant see any area it has an edge over Harambe. The Harambe workout app is awesome too. Better than any I have used before. Super happy customer here.
Hello. Thank you for the very helpful comment. I'm considering investing in either the X3 or Harambe system to replace my expensive gym membership and PT sessions (£300 per month, recently lowered to £180, but still too much long-term). As a near beginner I need plenty of guidance on completing the exercises safely as well as a range of them - does the Harambe app provide this level of support? I'm glad you're making good progress using it and you feel it was money well spent.
The app is really awesome and it does show a picture of each exercise and links to a video of the movement as well. The first week I referenced each movement to make sure I was set up properly. You learn quick though and after a little practice it is super easy and intuitive. There really is not any gym movement I can't replicate in some way with Harambe. I am still using it daily and am not missing the gym at all! Having this equipment at home has led to more consistency in my training and I am in as good of (and probably better) shape than I achieved with my gym membership!
@@sethgolla8376 That's great. Thanks so much for letting me know. Definitely considering buying it now, and it does seem superior compared to X3. The X3 board alone concerns me as I think the sharp edges will damage the bands.
i would use them all ,but i guess some bars are good for certain body parts,all might seem the same ,but true mike those slings change the game,wow theres so many bars coming out which is a good thing,thank u mike for showing the difference between each bar,🫡
Drop your preferences and comments below if you have any of these bars. Like all products, you can list objective benefits over one versus another, but really interested in hearing your general personal preferences. Also worth noting is that my use of one bar over another might change in the future. This video is just on which one I gravitate towards most often in a general workout. Promo Code "MIKE" for X3 and "SLIDINGBENCHTRAINER" on Harambe. There's also WAY cheaper options which I've covered as well on the channel including using a simple pipe.
I used the X3 for 2 years. Once I swapped to the Harambe longer heavier Kbar I broke through plateaus. I really did not like being trapped in by bands rubbing all over me especially during squats and OHP! With the smaller bar. Also graduating from 41” bands to 38” was a game changer
Thanks for sharing that. Love hearing from you guys that have had both systems over the years.
I know I've mentioned it several times on your videos, but the hooks alone are the big reason I am loyal to X3 between the two! I'm the absolute laziest at changing weight plates or other things when working out at home, so the easier and more convenient the better. I probably would've argued size, but since Harambe made the T Bar, that'd probably fit my preferences just fine. When people ask me about what I do, I always recommend they look into Harambe, too, and decide for themselves. Also as a home workout piece, I really like the light weight for storage and practicality in a small apartment. I think over time I'd probably like some of the flexibility of Harambe's sling system, but I really only have a couple workouts I foresee myself caring about that for. Maybe one day I'll buy one to use specifically for those!
Thanks for that detailed comment Tim. I'm convinced if you start with one you'll be fine and get used to that one style.
I've owned the X3 for 2 years before investing in Harambe. I just hit a year with Harambe. I appreciate the X3 for getting me back in shape and introducing me to bands. The gains Harambe gave me is unmatched.
Over 90% of the time I use Harambe products and bands. It's not just because of the wider footplate and longer bar(X3 deadlifts just wreck my back and hips for some reason). Harambe has less variable resistance and more ROM meaning it feels more like weights. I am objectively much stronger using Harambe products and programming. Moving furniture, carrying boxes, picking people up. I go back and use the X3 from time to time, and I'm blown away by how much easier everything is.
Over the summer I lifted weights for 2 weeks. The amount I could lift was comparble to how much I could lift with Harambe lb for lb. I really only use the X3 when I travel, deload or get hurt doing something stupid because of it's crazy variable resistance, but then I remember that Harambe has the potential for higher variable resistance and use it anyway.
Awesome detailed comment. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for the opinions. Great video. Definitely helps to make my own opinion.
For travel and average size/height people: X3 hands down.
Are you tall or wide: Harambe.
Got disposable income: buy them all.
Great tip!
After getting an X3 I went with a Harambe T bar. The few advantages of the Harambe are it's smoother, the longer size fits me better, the sling system is superior because it's better at stacking and adjustable with the spacers. Coincidentally, I pfefer the X3 program.
Thanks for sharing that.
I get it. It’s your preference. Nothing wrong with that. Thanks for the review.
I have the Xbar3 standard and long bar. I bought the long bar because I was used to a wider grip and thought I needed it. I would alternate push days short bar and pull days long bar. But after a few weeks. The short bar just felt right and I no longer use the long bar.
My two cents.
@robdog9182… willing to sell the long bar?
Donated to a family member hoping they will start to exercise.
Hope your Christmas was great, Mike!
Can't wait for more of your channel in the New Year.!
Thanks Jay, Merry Christmas to you too. Let me know stuff / content you want to see.
But if you could only purchase 1 set of bands would you use the standard x3, the para force or the harambe. If price was not an option or restrictions (i know you cant purchase paraforce unless you are already a x3 customer)
I actually had a minute segment on the bands but deleted it because I thought I'd focus on the bars, wish I didn't. But in summary (again just my personal preference), my favorite set of bands are the paraforce 41in bands. The Harambe bands are very very built and the strongest (in strength) to any band, but I just prefer a little more stretch and the 41in length.
I’ve got the X3 bar. It fits me fine. I’m 6’-2” with broad shoulders and it fits me fine. No problems.
My son is back home from uni and is on his second week of X3 workouts, no complaints about the size of the bar. He’s 6’-4” and bigger and stronger than me. He only complains about how hard he’s working!!
Mike, one of the biggest upsides of X3 user group. They help with any questions and one can video their form and the trainers will help out. It’s quite the value add in my book.
I would love to check out that Facebook group
I have both the X3 and Harambe systems, both are amazing, I will say Harambe has variety but X3 is easier to travel with and quick, with Harambe if you wanted to travel it’s better to go with the T bundle and they do have the better footplate, but on X3 the bar with the hooks is easier than the slings, rods and ropes Harambe has, so to me for travel I would choose X3, for more options and home system I would go with Harambe, best way I can describe them is Harambe is variety and X3 less is more.
How does it physically feel exercising with slings instead of hooks?
I really don't notice any difference other than where the band falls under the bar and that the slings take longer to set up.
I would say don’t worry so much about what you think people want you to say. Just give your honest opinion, which you do but no need to worry about making the perceived “correct choice”. I’ve got a DIY setup I’m going to try in January when I finish my 12 week dumbbell program. If I like the bar/band/board system I’ll probably go with Harambe just because I think the owner/creator seems like a better person and isn’t on gear. I would just feel better about spending my money with them than X3.
For sure, I hear that comment often.
Interesting I wonder if having the standard x3 and the longer Harambe is the way to go.
@@Trickmanii as long as you don’t mind the sling system, Harambe it’s great
Yeah I was thinking the same thing about the shorter bar being superior, cool video too
Thank you brother
Can you please explain what the issue is with the Force Bar, I’m planning on buying on,, it’s a lot of money and I want to know it works.
It basically doesn't turn on. I'll charge it (sometimes no light comes on), then when I unplug it the light goes on, works for a few days that repeats the issue. So I've given up on it.
@@hybridresistance Thanks, I went ahead and bought the basic X3 bar and I'm super happy with it.
I'm gonna and the Clench handles, footplate and wall attachments as I progress.
Great review, when you said that you might prefer doing chest press and over head shoulder press with the x3 longer bar is that because you feel a little bit restricted with the standard x3 bar with those two exercises? I think you mentioned once or put a video about a professional weight lifter talking about the benefits of doing the shoulder press with a narrow grip and it's benefits, do you still have that link please.Thanks.
That would be Mark Rippetoe who makes a biomechanical case why close grip is better, but I really think ultimately (myself included) to listen to your body and experiment. I do personally think a closer grip is better though, yes.
I seen that Clench Fitness is coming out with their own resistance band bar which looks pretty interesting, being a satisfied customer I'll definitely be purchasing it that's if the price tag doesn't break the bank being on a budget.
It does look cool for sure.
What I really like about the Clench Fitness Nexus bar is the dual usage with both bands and weight plates. I can hardly wait for your review on it. @@hybridresistance
Bodylastics bar less expensive and better. Also breaks down for travel. I have a friend that got one for his tonal. I’m not a Bodylastics sales person. Just a happy. customer for over 10 years now.
I have both Harambe bars. I use the K bar at home and the T bar on the road. I wouldn't buy the X3 because of Jaquish's sales policy (you have to buy this to have the privilege of buying that) and his ultra arrogant style. "Weight lifting is a waste of time" is obviously b.s. The foot plate in the Harambe system is also far superior. I like the idea of the force bar, hopefully Harambe will come out with something similar.
Thank you for another great review. I can only compare the X3 bars: standard and long. I definitely prefer the standard bar. I purchased the GEKU X3 as a gift and tried it. It's ok. I almost always use the Paraforce bands.
I left the gym to use only X3 and sprinting plus I modified my diet to carnivore. I have completed the initial 3-month X3 program and will begin adding more sets. Dr Mike Isratel (YT Renaissance Periodization) explains very well why most people do not respond to the 1 set principles of Mike Menzer but need multiple sets of RIR (3 reps in reserve). Best of luck to all of us in this new year.
I love your content and opinions on the systems I have the X3 and love it would not trade it in for anything !!!! But I have one question about the band's of the other system are they good because I have the paraforce band's and love them I've also been told directly by X3 that they will have a elite paraforce band I can't wait!!!!
The Harambe bands are smaller in dimension at 38" and are also much stiffer. It really depends on your preference.
@@hybridresistanceDoes the stiffness mean it's less comfortable for your back?
How do they both compare to XBAR?
Have you tried/your thoughts on using the X3 bar/bands with the Harambe platform?
Yes, I have. The harambe is just a larger platform. Ideally I think it feels best if you're using a larger board, to use a larger bar.
Re. the bands for both systems - I'm guessing that you didn't feel the difference in use between the make of bands had any affect on your preferences? i.e. did the difference in resistance curve feel better for Harambe or X3? Or was there nothing in it?
I actually do have a Harambe band video I'll link it below. They are the best quality bands and the strongest, but I personally prefer the paraforce x3 bands (NOT the stock X3 bands). You again can argue what is objectively better for strength curve, but I'm just going off my personal preference. ruclips.net/video/_7xVakEWM2c/видео.html
Which company pays the biggest kickback?
In full transparency, they're actually equal at 10%. I appreciate Khalid for the increase. But don't let that sway you as I've said in a few videos, if these are too expensive, just get a lead pipe and you're good.
I had all three x3 models. I couldn’t stand the non independent rotation of the elite bar. You have to be extremely careful on heavy presses. The hooks can bind and suddenly release causing some to have the bar slip out. The first two bars never did that but hooks would grind the housing. Joz likes to tell people it’s improper use. One can film the housings move ever so slightly under pressure squeezing the washers. They got Chinese bars with true olympic collars with hooks. No problems. I never understood why x3 can’t do that. Yet Joz still claims it works like an Olympic bar.
Never had a Harambe bar bind up. Zero problems with their system.
Use whatever one likes. I prefer Soloflex for my main band work. Free weights for strength.
ive been using the knockoff x3 bar (geku) and the hooks are key. messing with carabiners (and i assume slings) is just so annoying.
i plan on buying a real x3 bar in a few months
I actually packed the GEKU for Christmas travel because it broke down easier .
Harambe is a much better system, and more customizable. Their platform is designed for tall people with long legs as well, as short. I also have the X3 short, and long bar, as well as the GEKU FIT x3 customizable bar which i've been using at home in place of the X3 bar. I find it to be very strong, as well as portable. That X3 short bar does not work my chest. I feel it in my shoulders. The Harambe way of doing the chest press on the floor propped up feels like a chest press, and not a shoulder press.
Thanks for sharing that. Always good to hear from other perspectives.
Pipe! Pipe!! Pipe!!! 😊
That's coming. My original thing I rigged really wasn't as user friendly as I thought, but I will still show the versatility of the pipe.
I own the Harambe System (about 3 months now). I seriously think it is one of the best purchases i have ever made in my life. The sling system works great, and does not slow me down any more than it would changing weight plates at the gym. The variable rope lengths, spacers, and options to cusomize the load for progressive overload makes this absolutely superior to X3. I cant believe the gains I am getting...Seriously, this is better than my gym membership (and Harambe gave me the confidence to cancel my membership yesterday!) Disclaimer, I haven't tried X3 but i researched both systems exhaustively prior to purchase and couldn't be happier with my choice. The X3 bar just looks lame in comparison IMO. I am sure it is nice for travel, but for a home gym replacement I cant see any area it has an edge over Harambe. The Harambe workout app is awesome too. Better than any I have used before. Super happy customer here.
Thanks for sharing that. I can totally understand what you're saying and makes perfect sense starting with that system first .
Hello. Thank you for the very helpful comment. I'm considering investing in either the X3 or Harambe system to replace my expensive gym membership and PT sessions (£300 per month, recently lowered to £180, but still too much long-term). As a near beginner I need plenty of guidance on completing the exercises safely as well as a range of them - does the Harambe app provide this level of support? I'm glad you're making good progress using it and you feel it was money well spent.
The app is really awesome and it does show a picture of each exercise and links to a video of the movement as well. The first week I referenced each movement to make sure I was set up properly. You learn quick though and after a little practice it is super easy and intuitive. There really is not any gym movement I can't replicate in some way with Harambe. I am still using it daily and am not missing the gym at all! Having this equipment at home has led to more consistency in my training and I am in as good of (and probably better) shape than I achieved with my gym membership!
@@sethgolla8376 That's great. Thanks so much for letting me know. Definitely considering buying it now, and it does seem superior compared to X3. The X3 board alone concerns me as I think the sharp edges will damage the bands.
The Harambe foot plate is definitely nice to your bands and the Harambe bands are seriously fantastic too!
i would use them all ,but i guess some bars are good for certain body parts,all might seem the same ,but true mike those slings change the game,wow theres so many bars coming out which is a good thing,thank u mike for showing the difference between each bar,🫡
Thanks Elad, did you get my message in the last comment that you won the Robus? Hit me up soon when you get a chance.