Total Shape's Product Review Guidelines

Product Review Guidelines Header

Here at Total Shape, we aim to guide users in finding the best products to help them meet their fitness goals.

We understand that our readers are busy, so hunting for the right supplement or workout equipment among countless options is time-consuming and daunting.

Thus, we have created a strict review process to give you honest and unbiased product reviews.

Here’s what we do to ensure every product has a fair chance.

We Order Products Anonymously

Ordering products anonymously allows us to experience each product just as a user would, right from the point of purchase. 

With this starting point, we can evaluate the ordering process, customer service experience, shipping times, and packaging.

Ordering anonymously and evaluating the process from the beginning gives us a genuine experience in the whole process.

At times, we do not recommend a product because of problems at the early stages, like customer service and shipping.

Woman ordering online using laptop and reviewing a supplement product

OUR PRODUCT TESTING TEAM

Michael Garrico

Michael Garrico

ACSM & NCSF Certified

Co-Founder & Marketing Director

christiana mikesch

Christiana Mikesch

Medical Reviewer & Fact Checker

James Cunningham

James Cunningham

Complete Health Optimization Coach

Connor Sellers

Connor Sellers

Senior Coach

Tyler Sellers profile photo

Tyler Sellers

Senior Coach

tracy

Tracy Thompson

AFPA Certified
Senior Coach


Direct Product Comparisons

Our standardized testing process allows us to provide our users with an honest review that begins with ordering and goes through to the end of using and evaluating the product.

For products like protein powders or supplements that affect people differently, we frequently recruit a group of independent product testers.

For example, when we work with groups to evaluate a product, we adhere to the following:

  • Determine the user’s baseline, including starting weight and measurement.
  • Note current diet and exercise routine.
  • Follow progress through product testing.
  • Record final results, including weight and measurement.
  • Evaluate user feedback, effectiveness, and side effects.

Standardized Testing Process

Our goal is to eliminate marketing bias, so we review using a strict, standardized process, giving each product a fair chance.

We take the guesswork out of product reviews by providing consistent and specific criteria depending on the product. We review on a 5-star scale so you can quickly see how the product ranks.

  • Five stars: Editor’s choice
  • Four stars: An excellent choice
  • Three stars: Okay - meets some of our standards
  • Two stars: Doesn’t meet our standards
  • One star: We do not recommend

Specific Rating Criteria

For each review, we evaluate features specific to that product. We consult nutritionists, dieticians, personal trainers, medical professionals, research literature, and publications to fully understand the efficacy and quality of each product.

Years of experience in the health and fitness industry provided us with an extensive and evolving network of individuals of different genders, age groups, fitness levels, and fitness goals.

We often draw from this pool of individuals to be independent testers of relevant products to evaluate how effective, safe, and practical they would be in real-world applications. 

Our independent testers’ experience using each supplement is also critical to our review.

Examples of feedback based on specific supplements include:

  • Dosing convenience: once daily versus three times daily
  • Side effects: did they experience any side effects, and how severe were they?
  • Precise body measurements, if applicable
  • Cognitive or mental improvements
  • Energy levels

A person rating 5 stars on phone

Protein Powders and Pre-workouts

A scoop of protein powder on floor

Ingredient Quality

We read labels carefully and look for third-party testing to ensure quality. We also keep our eye out for any unnecessary sugars, additives, and fillers.

Each supplement begins at the highest 5/5 rating. After professional consultation and referencing medical guidelines verified by USP, NSF, or Consumer Labs, several factors can adversely affect the quality rating.

These factors include:

  • Predicted efficacy based on the amount of the ingredient, its bioavailability, and the form, if applicable. Ie. Whey versus pea protein.
  • Ingredient safety, including dosage quantity and Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs).
  • The presence and safety of additives, fillers, sweeteners, binders, or preservatives. The shorter the list, the better.
  • The addition of anything artificial, including coloring, flavors, and sweeteners.
  • Allergen risk
Holding a scoop of a supplement powder

Taste

There are countless protein powder flavors available, and it's essential to be objective in determining which tastes best. When comparing the supplements, we also do blind taste tests and ask our testers to rate each flavor on a 5-point scale. We also consider our customers' preferences and our readers' survey responses.

Effectiveness

We ask our group of independent testers to commit to several weeks of product testing so we can base our review on real-world experience. 

For those looking for muscle gain and maintenance, we take baseline body measurements at the beginning of the eight-week test period. At the end of the test period, we again take muscle percentage, body fat percentage, and body weight and compare them to the baseline.

Pre-workout testers are asked to perform a variety of cardio and strength training workouts without taking any supplements and record results for:

  • Duration
  • Type of exercise
  • Heart Rate
  • Blood pressure
  • Energy level
  • Workout intensity
  • Recovery

We then ask the test group to perform the same workout schedule while using the supplement and record the same information. We review the side-by-side results.

Price

For most people, pricing is an important consideration, which is why we include it in our specific rating criteria for each review and assess a per-serving cost. 

Supplements will receive anywhere from 1/5-5/5 based on the following:

  • Supplements priced at a premium need the ingredient quality and efficacy to justify the price. When they do, they get a high rating in the 4/5 to 5/5 range.
  • Supplements priced at a premium that lack ingredient quality, have a long list of additives and fillers, or are ineffective will receive a lower rating, anywhere from a 1/5-3/5.
  • Reasonably priced supplements must have value in ingredient quality and effectiveness value to receive a solid price rating.
  • Competitive pricing against other comparable products is also a criterion for rating. Assuming the ingredient quality and efficacy are similar, evaluating market competition allows our readers to decide the best product for their dollar.

Our goal is to provide each consumer with the most in-depth review, so their purchase is the best value and effectiveness for their money.

Different dollar bills lying on the floor

Testosterone Boosters and Fat Burners

Holding supplement containers using biceps

Effectiveness

Testosterone boosters and fat burners require a few weeks of testing to get the most accurate results on their effectiveness and safety. 

We create a group of independent testers who are already using a particular product or would like to try using it for a few weeks under our supervision (with regular exercise and diet). 

We take precise measurements at the beginning and end of the testing phase using a high-tech full-body measurement system. Additionally, we ask the participants to record things like weight, body measurements, energy levels, diet, and workouts at regular weekly intervals.  

This information gives us a quick snapshot of the results and, ultimately, the supplement's efficacy. Better body measurements, higher testosterone, and energy levels results will get the supplement a higher rating, up to 5/5. Supplements that show less favorable results will net a lower score.

Holding supplement container while giving thumbs up

Ingredients

We work closely with medical professionals and nutritionists to assess ingredients and dosing for each supplement. 

Readers must be aware of the product formula and the effects of each ingredient to avoid consuming artificial additives and prevent adverse effects or allergies.

We also work closely with a network of dieticians to consult about ingredients to determine if they add or detract from the quality and efficacy of the product. Additionally, we reference USP, NSF, or Consumer Labs guidance for ingredient quality.

Each supplement begins at the highest 5/5 rating and can be penalized in its rating based on the following:

  1. Predicted efficacy based on the amount of the ingredient, its bioavailability, and the form, if applicable. ie.D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol).
  2. Ingredient safety is based on the quantity and Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs).
  3. The presence and safety of additives, fillers, sweeteners, binders, or preservatives. 
  4. The addition of anything artificial, including coloring, flavors, and sweeteners.
  5. Allergen risk

A short list of all-natural, organic, or non-GMO ingredients with no additives or fillers will get the supplement higher on the rating scale than a long ingredient list with added sweeteners, fillers, or other additives.

Price

For most people, pricing is an important consideration, which is why we include it in our specific rating criteria for each review and assess a per-serving cost. 

Supplements will receive anywhere from 1/5-5/5 based on the following:

  • Supplements priced at a premium need the ingredient quality and efficacy to justify the price. When they do, they get a high rating in the 4/5 to 5/5 range.
  • Supplements priced at a premium that lack ingredient quality, have a long list of additives and fillers, or are ineffective will receive a lower rating, anywhere from a 1/5-3/5.
  • Reasonably priced supplements must have value in ingredient quality and effectiveness value to receive a solid price rating.
  • Competitive pricing against other comparable products is also a criterion for rating. Assuming the ingredient quality and efficacy are similar, evaluating market competition allows our readers to decide the best product for their dollar.

Our goal is to provide each consumer with the most in-depth review, so their purchase is the best value and effectiveness for their money.

A man holding a credit card to pay for testosterone boosters and fat burners

Nootropics and Multivitamins

A spoon full of multivitamins and nootropics

Effectiveness

Though nootropics and multivitamins are evaluated similarly to other supplements, they require a more considerable commitment from our product testers for an extended testing period so we can adequately assess their safety and efficacy.

The use over extended periods shows how effective the product is. We begin by noting the participant’s baseline, like weight, diet, and exercise routine, and closely follow each participant through the testing process.

For nootropics, the test participants will complete a battery of cognitive tests that measure areas like memory and focus time before taking the supplement and repeat the testing after taking the supplement for a predetermined time.

When testing multivitamins, we take a before and after snapshot of the participants’ blood biomarkers. We also rely on feedback from our participants on whether they notice changes in their skin, hair, and general well-being, including any side effects.
Holding supplements and multivitamins with a glass of water

Ingredient Quality

We consult our team of dieticians and nutritionists regarding ingredient formulas for multivitamins and nootropics. Their expertise comes from academic knowledge and accomplishments, publication, and tenure in the field and is an invaluable tool for our review.

We also consult medical professionals and literature about specific ingredients and dosing, including any unnecessary additives or fillers.

Price

For most people, pricing is an important consideration, which is why we include it in our specific rating criteria for each review and assess a per-serving cost. 

Supplements will receive anywhere from 1/5-5/5 based on the following:

  • Supplements priced at a premium need the ingredient quality and efficacy to justify the price. When they do, they get a high rating in the 4/5 to 5/5 range.
  • Supplements priced at a premium that lack ingredient quality, have a long list of additives and fillers, or are ineffective will receive a lower rating, anywhere from a 1/5-3/5.
  • Reasonably priced supplements must have value in ingredient quality and effectiveness value to receive a solid price rating.
  • Competitive pricing against other comparable products is also a criterion for rating. Assuming the ingredient quality and efficacy are similar, evaluating market competition allows our readers to decide the best product for their dollar.

Our goal is to provide each consumer with the most in-depth review, so their purchase is the best value and effectiveness for their money.

A wallet full of vitamin pills

Fitness Equipment

A rack of dumbbells in a gym

Durability

We understand that consumers want confidence in what they buy. Regarding fitness equipment, they want to know that their product will stand long-term against intense workouts.

We always order new products in advance to get an impression of the product's durability long before we write a review. The independent test group uses the equipment for several months before giving feedback. 

To ensure our readers get the most durable equipment for their money, we answer questions like the following:

  • Movable parts: Are they made of material that will hold up over months or years of intense use?
  • Does the bench or seat material resist cracking or webbing and reveal padding?
  • Buttons & Levers: Do they withstand repeated presses over long-term use?

Answering yes to these questions will net a higher durability rating closer to 5/5. Equipment with plastic parts or equipment that shows swaying or stability compromise will drop the rating toward the lower 1/5.

Muscular man using a dumbbell

Price

For most people, pricing is an important consideration, which is why we include it in our specific rating criteria for each review. 

Equipment will receive anywhere from 1/5-5/5 based on the following:

  • Equipment priced at a premium must be safe, easy to use, made of quality material, and long-lasting to justify the price. When it does, we give it a high rating in the 4/5 to 5/5 range.
  • Equipment priced at a premium that lacks one of the mentioned features will receive a lower rating, anywhere from a 1/5-3/5.
  • Competitive pricing against other comparable products is also a criterion for rating. Evaluating market competition allows our readers to decide the best product for their dollar.

Our goal is to provide each consumer with the most in-depth review, so their purchase is the best value and effectiveness for their money.

Shipping

Like supplements, we start evaluating right at the beginning of the process with our order and shipping experience.

Rating the shipping, we evaluate the following:

  • Shipping speed
  • Shipping cost
  • Packaging
  • Tracking information
  • Shipping damage

Fast, free shipping in sturdy packaging with no damage and quick access to tracking information will get a 5/5 rating. Deductions from 5 come from any misfires in shipping speed, packaging, tracking, or additional costs.

From there, if any assembly is required, we do it ourselves and note things like the readability of the instructions and ease and time of assembly.

Two workers shipping a package

Fitness Trackers

A group showing their own fitness trackers

As for our other reviews, we purchase fitness trackers anonymously and begin our review right from customer service and purchasing.

We then recruit a group of independent testers to use the product for up to a month so we can look at various features on workout and non-workout days.

Features

Using a fitness tracker can be an invaluable part of any fitness routine. Hence, our team evaluates features like the following:

  • Battery life: Our team of independent testers wears it on non-workout and workout days so we can fully evaluate battery life. The longer the battery life, the higher the rating.
  • Accuracy: To receive a 4.5-5/5 overall rating, the fitness tracker must excel in the following areas: 
    • Heart rate: It’s verified against manual and chest strap devices for the most reliable results.
    • Distance: It’s measured on a standard indoor track or outside on a pre-verified GPS-mapped route.
    • Step count: Product testers walk 100 meters, manually count steps, and compare against the tracker.
  • Syncing: Test the ease of syncing with popular third-party fitness apps. Effortless syncing will add to the rating.
  • Water resistance: does the tracker sweat or water resistance/proof match the claim? If so, it will receive a rating closer to 5/5
    • Sweat-resistant: we look for any malfunction during an intense, sweaty workout.
    • Water-resistant: we look for any malfunction while we spray it with water.
    • Waterproof: we look for any malfunction when submerging the tracker, ensuring we do not exceed the stated max depth.
Fitness trackers in isolated background

Shipping

Shipping is another critical criterion we include in our single product reviews based on our personal experience so that consumers are prepared for what to expect during delivery.Before reviewing any specific product, we purchase it to get first-hand experience with the brand shipping and customer support. We assess the shipping speed, costs, and packaging when we receive the product. 

Fast, free shipping in sturdy packaging with quick access to tracking information will get a 5/5 rating. Deductions from 5 come from any misfires in shipping speed, packaging, tracking, or additional costs.

Price

As with our other reviews, price point matters; we rate durability, battery life, and features for fitness trackers to determine that users will get the most tracker for their money.

Fitness trackers will receive anywhere from 1/5-5/5 based on the following:

  • A more costly fitness tracker that is rugged and can withstand long-term use during everyday life and intense workouts will get a higher rating on our 5-scale.
  • An economically priced fitness tracker with features, durability, and battery life to match will receive a rating higher on the 5-scale because the product value meets the price point.
  • A costly fitness tracker that lacks durability, battery life, or features will receive a lower rating on our scale, usually in the 1-3/5 range.

Our goal is to provide each consumer with the most in-depth review, so their purchase is the best value and effectiveness for their money.

Scanning card to pay contactless transactions

How Products Become Editor’s Choice?

A product must meet our high standards from the beginning of the process with ordering and shipping and continue meeting those standards until we use and review product quality and effectiveness.

A stellar experience throughout our entire standardized testing process will earn a product our Editor’s Choice stamp of approval according to our specific rating criteria.