With fitness equipment on backorder for months or listed at 2-3x its typical price, we’ve all had to adjust our at-home workout routines one way or another. While gyms have reopened, many have decided they prefer the convenience of exercising at home, or understandably still feel uncomfortable entering confined public spaces to sweat it out with strangers.
Connected home gyms are an ideal solution. With Echelon and Peloton redefining stationary bikes, firms like Mirror, Tonal, and Nordictrack offering high-end smart mirrors, and startups like Hydrow introducing fancy at-home rowing machines, the unfortunate reality is that most smart home gyms remain prohibitively expensive. You can wait for Black Friday or another blowout clearance sale, but the prices of connected home gyms are simply too high for the average consumer to justify.
So when the folks behind the award-winning Tempo Studio announced the release of a new low-cost home gym, we were intrigued.
Today we’ll review Tempo’s new $395 home gym, the Tempo Move and find out if it lives up to the high standards set by its predecessor. Does this compact, smart device, disguised as space-saving piece of furniture, deliver on Tempo’s claims of a connected home gym that suits every budget and space — all for about $2k less than the Studio? Let’s find out.
What to look for in a smart home gym
Some people are satisfied with a modestly interactive bike, treadmill, or another dedicated training device that provides basic heart rate readings and fitness app compatibility.
It’s 2022, and others simply want more. Think AI training, live virtual classes, access to trainers, even “smart” weights that are recognized by 3D sensors.
These are the features that define the modern connected home gym. Many of these more robust systems, including the Tempo Move and Tempo Studio, allow you to:
- Track progress and curate a personal training plans for your fitness levels and goals
- Measure your body movements (using LIDAR or another system in you phone’s camera) to give precise AI feedback, count reps, and more
- Access all types of exercise classes (pre-recorded and live streams)
- Connect to the larger fitness community and compare your workout with other users for added motivation
- Sync with popular fitness apps you already know or own so you can have a complete overview of your workouts in one place
Now that you’re familiar with the intricacies of a smart gym, let’s delve into the specifics of the Tempo Move.
What is the Tempo Move?
Source: Tempo
Tempo Move is a compact (2′ x 1.6′ x 1.6′ cube) all-in-one gym housing a built-in personal trainer. Tempo Move was designed for people who want or need to work out at home but have limited space and a limited budget. Similar to the way Studio revolutionized home training, Tempo has done it again by being the only compact home gym on the market with a built-in trainer. If you want a more in-depth review of the Tempo Studio vs Tempo Move, check out our comparison to see which is best for you!
Furthermore, Tempo Move comes with everything you need to get a good workout at home without having to clutter up your living room with strange, bulky, and mismatched equipment. Tempo Move is a clean, neat, and all-inclusive smart gym that’s both space and budget efficient.
How much does Tempo Move cost?
The Tempo Move currently costs $495 $395, for which you get a sleek-looking light or dark wood cabinet that includes:
- 1.25lb smart weight plates (4x)
- 7.5lbs dumbbells (2x)
- 2.5lb smart weigh plates (4x)
- Weight storage cabinet
- 5lb smart weight plates (4x)
- Weight Collars (4x)
- an HDMI cable to hook up the device to your television
- a moveable docking station
Tempo Move’s smart weights are custom designed to be picked up and recognized by the 3D sensors on iPhones. The weights are accessed via an attractive, cloth-covered panel attached to the front of the machine by magnets that grip it in place. You’ll also need to sign up for their monthly membership, which costs an additional $39 a month, to access their massive library of live and pre-recorded classes and workouts.
In 2021 the company started selling the Tempo Studio for $1,995. Studio is essentially a floor-length mirror that cleverly conceals a full weight set in its triangular body, and it depends on time-of-flight cameras and AI to detect your squat thrusts and monitor your overhead presses. Live trainers will then work with you to customize the routine. We’ll compare Tempo Studio vs Tempo Move more in detail below, but you can also read this in-depth review to learn how the Studio compares to new competitors like FORME and ProForm Vue.
TLDR; at just $395, Tempo’s latest product, the Move, is ideal if you don’t want to shell out thousands on a new piece of fitness hardware, but need something more engaging than self-guided workouts. It offers a similar overall experience to the Tempo Studio, but is a lot more affordable.
How does the Tempo Move work?
Source: Tempo Move
The Tempo Move requires you to provide your own display device, which is a television with an HDMI port. The removable Core (dock) for your phone is located at the top of the Tempo Move. It’s a round disc that sits comfortably in a side table stand or be placed wherever it’s most comfortable for your phone to scan your body using 3D Tempo Vision, which also scans any weights you’re holding.
Currently 3D Tempo Vision only works with iPhone Xs – iPhone 13 Pro Max, scanning the user’s complete body (and equipment) with thousands of tiny invisible dots to check for appropriate alignment throughout a workout using Apple’s front-facing TrueDepth camera — and will eventually use the rear-facing LiDar camera. And yes, we are aware that Android phones can do exactly the same thing.
The Tempo Move will point out your mistakes and provide constructive feedback. Are you staying at the same weight when you could be moving up? The Move’s digital trainer will advise you to step it up if so.
After connecting the Core and TV, open the Tempo Fit app on your phone, create an account, and ensure that the cameras can scan your body when you select a workout. After that, place your phone on the Core and begin your workout. If you’re simply interested in doing bodyweight workouts while traveling, all you need is your phone (with the app), an HDMI cord, and the Core.
What’s it like to work out with Tempo Move?
Source: Tempo
For a $39 monthly membership fee for the app (on top of the equipment cost), the Move, like the larger Studio, provides access to a wide choice of live and on-demand trainer-led fitness programs.
For $39 per month for the whole family (up to 6 accounts), you can access the following class types:
- HIIT
- Cardio
- Strength
- Low Impact
- Cardio Boxing
- Core
- Yoga
- Mobility
- Prenatal
- And more!
Rep count can be found on the right side of the screen. And your heart rate will be displayed in the lower right corner of the screen, which is read by a heart rate monitor, which you may purchase separately or use your favorite smartwatch.
Tempo monitors your performance during your workouts and then tailors your training plan to ensure you’re progressing as effectively as hoped. Tempo already knows the weight you used for shoulder presses last week and will assess if you’re ready to increase your weight and incorporate some progressive overload. Now, this is the epitome of smart, connected fitness — all on a budget.
Tempo’s leaderboard is another exciting feature. You can narrow it down to people in your area or create personalized groups with the Tempo Fit app. Also, you don’t have to work out with your buddies simultaneously for it to move you up or down. The device compares your current progress in the workout to your buddies’ at the same moment.
The upper left corner of the screen will encourage your form if you’re moving correctly, but, if you fail to do so, it will also offer recommendations on having an appropriate form. It is crucial in the prevention of injury. Given that most of us do not have access to a personal trainer in our homes on a daily basis, the Move is the next best thing. Tempo’s technology guides you through exercises, providing feedback on your form and rep goals, as well as alerting you when it’s time to level up. There will be no thinking, guessing, or calculating.
Tempo Move vs Tempo Studio: How do the two compare?
Source: Tempo Studio
Like its predecessor (Tempo Studio), Tempo Move uses a 3D Tempo Vision system that uses cameras and AI to analyze motions, learn your shortcomings and strengths, and provide feedback to help you attain your workout goals.
Tempo Move promises to provide many of the same benefits as the larger, more expensive Tempo Studio, such as AI training, access to thousands of live and on-demand classes, and trainers, all from the comfort of your own home.
When it comes to Tempo Move vs Tempo Studio, smartphone compatibility is a considerable factor.
There is one significant distinction between the two systems. Tempo Move creates a 3D tracking map of people in their environment using Apple’s TrueDepth camera.
In a nutshell, instead of a 42-inch monitor with built-in cameras like Tempo Studio, the Tempo Move system “sees” you using current iPhone technology.
It compares your live workout video with many other videos of trainers and athletes. It can inform you if you’re doing it right based on your height, weight, and workout stance. It uses this to provide comments and advice as your personal AI trainer.
Tempo Move may release an Android version later, employing phones with a similar LIDAR technology to Apple, but no announcement has been made to confirm this.
Even if you do have an iPhone – make sure it’s the right model before buying Tempo Move
Think you’re good to go if you have an iPhone? Not so fast.
You should note that currently, only “some” newer model iPhones will work with the Tempo Move (for example, iPhone 2020 SEs are not on the list.)
Supported iPhones include:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone 11 (Pro, Pro Max)
- iPhone 12 (Mini, Pro, Pro Max)
- iPhone 13 (Mini, Pro, Pro Max)
A few more differences between Tempo Studio and Tempo Move:
| Tempo Move vs Tempo Studio | TEMPO MOVE | TEMPO STUDIO |
| Size |
Tempo Move is much smaller. It achieves this smaller size by incorporating your newer iPhone (using HDMI or cable) and connecting it to your TV. When the app is on, the iPhone turns your TV into your connected home gym. The Tempo Move itself is tiny, only 2 feet high by 1 foot 6 inches wide. |
Tempo Studio is larger and comes with a special 42” HD touchscreen monitor with built in cameras that use Microsoft Azure Kinect. It’s 6 feet high. |
| Aesthetics/ Design | The Tempo Move looks like a small end table, blends in with your current furnishings. The Tempo Studio does not. | Tempo Studio is a large, all-in-one fitness solution with a triangular torso. |
| Device compatibility | Tempo Move is only available for newer iPhones, no Android options. Tempo Move uses iPhone’s tracking, unlike Tempo Studio which has a built-in system. |
Android users may want to consider Tempo Studio. It doesn’t rely on the iPhone, has its own built-in fitness mirror and camera tracking system (Microsoft’s Azure Kinect. |
| Weights | 95 lbs in weight plates | 35 lbs in weight plates |
| Pricing | $395 + $39.95 monthly subscription | $1995 + $39.95 monthly subscription |
Want to know more about Tempo Studio’s nuances? We have compared Tempo Studio head-to-head with ProForm Vue and Nordictrack Vault & Mirror.
Tempo Move alternatives: how does Tempo Move compare to other low cost smart home gyms?
Let’s compare the Tempo Move vs MIRROR vs TRX Training Club — two competitors that most closely rival the Move in terms of price and functionality.
Tempo Move vs TRX vs MIRROR | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Workout types | Thousands of workouts, live and one demand. Monthly subscription required. | Thousands of workouts, live and one demand. Monthly subscription required. | 10,000 classes across 50 fitness categories. Monthly fee required. | Offers a variety of resistance workouts and suspension training |
| Screen Specs | Built-in 42” touchscreen monitor | No built-in monitor (uses your own TV and iPhone only (no Android) | Mirror-type workout display without a touchscreen that displays workouts/ trainings as well as your reflection. | ❌ |
| Size | 6′ H x 2′ 2″ inches W x 1′ 4″ D | 2′ H x 1′ 6″ W x 1′ 6″ D | 56″ H x 22.4″ W x 1.4″s D | ❌ |
| Equipment included | 5mm Workout Mat 2 x 7.5 lbs Dumbbells 4 x Collars 75 lbs of Weight Plates | 4 x 1.25 lbs smart weight plates 2 x 7.5 lbs dumbbells 4 x 2.5 lbs smart weigh plates Weight storage cabinet 4 x 5 lbs smart weight plates 4 x Weight Collars | MIRROR stand Camera cap | Resistance trainer/strap small carry bag |
| Pricing | $1995 (regularly $2495) | $395 (regularly $495) | $995 (regularly $1495) | $199.95 (includes 30 day free subscription to Training Club) |
| Membership fee | $39.95 monthly subscription (up to 6 user profiles) | $39.95 monthly description (up to 6 user profiles) | $39 monthly description (up to 6 user profiles) | $5.99/month, or $49.99/year |
| Website | ||||
MIRROR vs Tempo Move
The main difference between Mirror and Tempo Move is size. When it comes to size, it’s difficult to find anything smaller or less obtrusive than Lululemon’s MIRROR, which is exactly what it sounds like: a full-sized mirror you can hang on your wall. When not in use, it resembles any ordinary mirror.
Source: MIRROR by Lululemon
It transforms into a two-way mirror—a digital display capable of transmitting live/on-demand workouts and trainers when turned on. All while keeping you in the frame (Zoom-style) so that you and its AI system can monitor your workout form.
TRX Training Club vs Tempo Move
The core differences between Tempo Move and TRX are cost and interactivity. The TRX Training Club is a low-key virtual gym alternative for those who want easy access to weight training and video instruction but don’t require more engaging social or form feedback features.
Source: TRX Training Club
TRX does not include AI training, a high-end camera, or a smart mirror. However, with their monthly subscription service, you will have streaming access to TRX pros as well as a vast choice of training and programs. And it’s all available on your phone or computer, making it simple to access.
TRX is one of the most popular home gym systems on the market, having defined the category of Suspension Training. They believe that anyone can acquire fitness with just this one basic strategy that uses your own body weight and very little equipment. If a super minimalist approach appeals to you, TRX is your best bet.
Tempo Move Unboxing: Reviewing my experience
It may be too early for a critical mass of online reviews of the Tempo Move since it was just announced in early November 2021 and only started shipping in early December 202, but I’m happy to share more about my own experience.
My Tempo Move arrived at my front-door step in one, heavy box:
Tempo recommends at least 6′ x 6′ open space for set up, so I planned to set up my Tempo Move in my living room. But when the box arrived, I changed my mind and decided to set it up in our guest room instead.
Notice how the Tempo Move (to the right of the plant!) blends in like a normal piece of furniture. That is, until you open it up and see all the fitness goodies inside:
I didn’t upgrade for to get additional weights and accessories, but may later as I work my way up beyond 10 lbs plates. Here’s a video of my Tempo Move unboxing as well:
My honest Tempo Move review after working out for 3 weeks…
After 3 weeks of daily blood pumping workouts, I can say I absolutely love exercising with the Tempo Move. I ended up…. moving my Tempo move (lol) to my living room where I had a bit ore space and a larger screen (picture below of my new setup). Here’s what I enjoy most about the workouts so far and why I don’t think I’ll ever have a gym membership again:
- Easy to set up – It took 10 minutes from unboxing to start my first workout and I haven’t hit any snags
- From correction feedback – I love when the Tempo Move automatically tells me to improve my rep quality, and then confirms when I’ve properly adjusted. This feature works better than I would have expected!
- Engaging instructors – I’ve taken classes fro 4 different instructors so far and each has been upbeat, motivating, insightful about form instruction, and humorous! The time passes quickly despite the pain and I’ve even learned a bit of anatomy / physiology.
- Workout Variety – Whether you only want to sweat for 10 minutes or a full hour, Tempo has a ton of classes to choose from. I’ve been working out everyday for 3 weeks and have yet to repeat a single class.
- Elegant style – the Tempo Studio looks like it belongs in my house (no eye-sores!) and is easy to move. I tried it in multiple rooms before deciding my living room was best, and it wasn’t a pain at all to set up and move around.
What could be improved fro y perspective:
- Rep counting – this feature doesn’t always count my reps accurately, which is frustrating because it feels like my stats will be incomplete. It’s reliable for the most part, but has some room for improvement.
- No live classes (yet) – All the Tempo Move classes I’ve taken so far have been prerecorded, which is fine, but I’d love to experience a live course. I anticipate Tempo will launch these soon.
- Only works for iOS – My wife wanted to test it out using her phone, but unfortunately she was unable to dock her phone into the Tempo Move cradle as a proud Android user.
The Verdict: Is the Tempo Move connected home gym worth it?
The Tempo Move is the greatest and only smart strength training machine of its kind, with sophisticated form-tracking and rep-counting software, tough on-demand and live sessions, and excellent trainers. Plus, Tempo Move does not stand out like a sore thumb in the midst of your living room; instead, it blends in with its sleek, discrete design and built-in storage that never reveals what’s within.
The Tempo Move costs $395. But though it has a cheaper starting price, you’re still on the hook for a $39.95 monthly subscription. Given that many gym memberships cost less than $40 a month, it may appear to be a poor value, but keep in mind that Tempo is more than just the equipment: it also includes a limitless selection of guided workouts with motivational and instructional instructions. Try finding a personal trainer for less than $40 per hour, let alone $40 per month!
Tempo Move is also entirely transportable. You can effortlessly relocate your Move anyplace you want and get to work smoothly, whether someone in your home is using the living room when you’re ready to get a workout in or you simply want a change of scenery.
The only disadvantage we can think of is that it is incompatible with Android users. However, with their breakthrough technology constantly updating and developing, it does not appear that it will be long until they introduce Android smartphones to be compatible too.
While the Tempo Studio will continue to be the most powerful and technologically advanced option, Move has filled a void that allows more individuals to join the movement and become stronger and fitter from the comfort of their own homes.
Have you tried any of Tempo’s smart gyms or other connected home gyms? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments below.
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