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.

In-line references support each critical statement and factual information presented in our guides. To view them, just click the numerical hyperlinks.

In addition our medical review team reviews and fact-checks our articles before publishing to safeguard the integrity and accuracy of the information we provide.

Here’s a full breakdown of what we do to ensure every product has a fair chance and evenly evaluated.


OUR PRODUCT TESTING TEAM

Jess

Jess

Senior Coach

Dan

Dan

Senior Coach

Alex
Senior Coach

Dr. Kristy June Dinampo-Dayanan photo

Dr. Kristy Dayanan, BS, MD

Medical Reviewer & Fact Checker

dr harshi dhingra md total shape

Dr. Harshi Dhingra, MD

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

Lisa Lorraine Taylor

Lisa Lorraine Taylor, BSC, CPT

Staff Writer


What We Do

Here is everything we consider before featuring a health supplement or fitness equipment product on our pages.


√ 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.

What WE Do

√ 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

Specific Rating Criteria

Adhere to Regulatory Authorities' Guidelines

Health supplements are subject to various regulations to ensure their safety and efficacy. However, not all products receive universal approval or follow accepted guidelines.

Different regulatory bodies may have varying criteria for what makes a supplement effective. To ensure the utmost quality and safety, we evaluate approval ratings and criteria considerations from multiple relevant institutions:

The language used in our guides reflects the strength of the evidence supporting a statement. We make it absolutely clear if a claim lacks robust scientific evidence and is based mainly on a weak footing, such as opinions, anecdotes, or clinical experience. 

Extensively Gather User Reviews

It's all too common for brands to hand-pick high-quality supplements and equipment to send to reviewers and influencers expecting high scores.

We don't play that game.

In addition to our hands-on experience, we take additional steps to judge a product. To provide a balanced view, we meticulously comb through both positive and negative user reviews across the internet on all the health supplements and fitness gear we recommend.

We frequently contact these reviewers to further understand their experiences, ensuring their insights are accurately represented in our content.

Study The Brand History & Product Line

Before recommending a new line of health supplements or fitness equipment, we conduct an in-depth analysis of the brand's history and operations to gauge potential risks for you. Here are some key aspects we consider:

  • History of voluntary recalls for the brand and product line
  • Manufacturing facilities and their recall records
  • Any FDA warnings or recalls related to the brand
  • Country of manufacture
  • Affiliations with other brands or entities
  • Previous name changes that may indicate attempts to distance from past issues
  • Recent shifts in ownership, manufacturing methods, or formulations

By doing this, we aim to provide you with the most trustworthy and reliable recommendations.

Scrutinize Quality & Safety Data with Trained Medical Reviewers

Before featuring any health supplements or fitness equipment on our site, we consult with our team of medical doctors and trained fitness experts for an in-depth analysis and thorough fact checking. They scrutinize the nutritional content and performance metrics, as well as validate these against independent lab test results.

This rigorous vetting ensures that every item in our reviews and buying guides meets the highest standards for your health and fitness needs.

Analyze Marketing Claims from the Brand

Brands often make bold health and performance assertions to boost sales of supplements and fitness equipment.

We scrutinize their promotional content and break it down point by point, debunking the false or extravagant claims. That way you always know precisely what you're investing in for your health and fitness.

Consider the Product's Pricing & Positioning Strategy

We aim to provide a comprehensive review of health supplements and fitness equipment to fit all budgets and needs. In each guide, you can expect to find options categorized into budget-friendly, best-value, and premium selections.

We also focus on specialized preferences, such as organic or plant-based supplements, and specialized fitness equipment for strength training or cardio.

Factor in Availability & Delivery Options

We evaluate shipping options because finding the ideal health supplement or fitness equipment is pointless if you can't receive it promptly or affordably, especially if you're outside major cities.

We assess average shipping time and costs, as well as the regions covered. We also consider the return policy for those who may change their minds.

At times, we do not recommend a product because of problems at these early stages, including customer service, shipping and return policies. Companies with more favorable shipping and return terms receive higher rankings on our site.

Take Reader's Feedback into Consideration

Each of our health supplement and fitness equipment reviews features a feedback system and a comments section at the bottom of the article. We encourage you to share what you found beneficial or lacking, as your insights help us and the community make better choices.

Make Constant Updates

We regularly update our evidence-based guides to reflect the latest science on the topic.

Our team gathers the most up-to-date information by searching published literature on the core subject matter and keeping abreast with new important studies on the topic.


What We Don't Do

What you will NEVER find on Total Shape.

🚫 Accept Sponsorship Fees

Numerous health and wellness brands offer us substantial sponsorship fees to prioritize their supplements and fitness equipment on our pages.

However, we decline these offers. Our editorial responsibility is to present you with the most effective and safe options, as we prioritize your health above all else.

🚫 Post Reviews Without Thorough Research

All our reviews of health supplements and fitness equipment are based on exhaustive research and analysis. We never make recommendations lightly.

Rest assured that any product featured has been rigorously vetted according to our stringent criteria, ensuring you can trust our advice.

🚫 Go Against Medical Doctor’s & State or Federal Agencies' Advice

Adhering to the recommendations of healthcare experts and regulatory agencies is non-negotiable for us.

If a medical professional advises against the use of a particular health supplement or a piece of fitness equipment, we will not feature it on our platform, regardless of personal opinions or trends. Period.


How We Test & Score Products

We’ve poured endless hours into developing, tweaking, and improving our testing and scoring system for supplements and equipment. Our system is created to provide a transparent and fair quantitative assessment for dietary supplements and fitness equipment.

By referencing our scores you can easily and quickly find the best health and fitness products for you.

In the following section, we'll break down each factor and explain exactly how we test and score every product we review.

Ingredients

Ingredients in dietary supplements are vital for effectiveness and safety.

We verify ingredient lists are transparent by comparing product labels to marketing claims with third-party testing. Our team examines proprietary blends to assess if they disclose each component based on laboratory analysis. Dosage is tested by cross-referencing scientific studies to determine if the amounts in the supplement can deliver promised benefits.

Scores depend on the product's adherence to transparency, full disclosure of blends, and scientifically supported dosages.

The scale we use when determining ingredient scores:

  • 5 - Fully transparent ingredient lists, no proprietary blends, and dosages backed by science. 
  • 4 - Ingredients list mostly transparent, proprietary blend components fully disclosed, and dosages mostly supported by research. 
  • 3 - Generally transparent ingredients, proprietary blends not fully disclosed, and dosages somewhat supported by research. 
  • 2 - Lacking transparency in ingredients, undisclosed proprietary blends, and unsupportable dosages. 
  • 1 - Misleading ingredient lists, undisclosed proprietary blends undisclosed and testing found it unsafe, and dosages with no scientific backing.

Flavor

Tasty flavors make supplements enjoyable and easier to include in daily routines.

We assess the variety of flavors by counting the options each supplement offers. Our team personally tries each flavor to judge taste and aftertaste. We then analyze feedback from verified buyers to gauge overall satisfaction and consensus on the flavor.

Scores reflect a combination of flavor diversity, our direct taste tests, and community feedback.

The scale we use when determining flavor scores:

  • 5 - Wide variety of flavors, our team loved the taste, and verified buyers unanimously rave about every flavor.
  • 4 - Good flavor selection, our team enjoyed the majority of flavors, and verified buyers report positive experiences with most flavors.
  • 3 - Average flavor range, our taste tests find flavors are decent, and feedback from verified buyers is mixed.
  • 2 - Limited flavor options, our team was underwhelmed, and verified buyers report negative experiences with most flavors.
  • 1 - Single flavor option, our team did not enjoy the taste and aftertaste, and verified buyers consensus is poor taste quality.

Texture

Much like flavor, the texture of supplements affects how enjoyable and easy it is to use.

For smoothness, we pour the supplement through a sieve to detect any large particles, and note any gritty or grainy residues when it's mixed. For consistency, we mix a set amount with water then check how uniform the supplement remains after being set aside for an hour. Solubility testing involves timing how long it takes to stir the supplement into water at room temperature and observing any undissolved particles.

Our scores reflect how closely each product meets these three standards.

The scale we use when determining texture scores:

  • 5 - Exhibits exceptional smoothness with zero grit, maintains perfect consistency with no separation, and dissolves completely without effort.
  • 4 - Very smooth with minimal grit detected, shows slight separation over time but remains generally consistent, and has very few undissolved particles.
  • 3 - Some grittiness noticeable, consistency may vary slightly, and requires extra stirring to achieve reasonable solubility.
  • 2 - Clearly gritty texture, inconsistent texture with noticeable separation, and struggles to dissolve, leaving many particles undissolved.
  • 1 - Unpleasantly gritty, separates into layers quickly, and fails to dissolve, leaving a significant amount of residue.

Ingredient Quality

Ingredient quality matters to us because it directly affects the health and safety of users.

For purity, supplements are tested for the absence of additives, dyes, chemicals, heavy metals, and pesticides using high-performance liquid chromatography. We verify the source by auditing suppliers and manufacturers for certifications and checking for any past legal issues or product recalls. Stability and shelf life rely on third-party laboratory tests that simulate varying conditions to ensure the product remains potent until the expiration date.

Scores reflect a combination of these factors, ensuring products are safe, effective, and come from trusted sources.

The scale we use when determining ingredient quality scores:

  • 5 - Exceptional purity with no detected harmful substances, sourced from certified suppliers with no legal issues, and proves stability equal to or beyond the stated shelf life.
  • 4 - Contains minimal non-harmful additives, sourced from reputable suppliers with inconsequential or no legal issues, and maintains stability throughout the advertised shelf life.
  • 3 - Meets industry standards for purity, sourced from average suppliers with acceptable or unverified legal history, and has average stability, degrading less than 6 months or more before shelf life ends.
  • 2 - Contains some impurities or many additives, sourced from suppliers with questionable reputations or legal issues, and has below-average stability, degrading 6-12 months or more before shelf life ends.
  • 1 - Contains multiple harmful substances, sourced from suppliers with poor reputations and significant legal issues, and horrible stability, degrading 12 months or more before shelf life ends.

User Ratings

We value user feedback and consensus in our review process. To determine overall satisfaction, we aggregate user ratings of verified buyers from every online merchant selling the product.

Our process includes verifying authenticity to weed out fake reviews. The final score reflects aggregated user experiences with first-hand perspectives.

The scale we use when determining user rating scores:

  • 5 - Reflects nearly universal praise from verified users.
  • 4 - Numerous verified users report positive experiences.
  • 3 - Mix of good and critical feedback from verified users.
  • 2 - Predominantly unfavorable reviews highlight significant issues.
  • 1 - Overwhelming disapproval and reviews from users.

Product Effectiveness

Product effectiveness is hugely important, a product must deliver on its marketed promises.

Our test team monitor progress over a 90-day period to judge effectiveness and efficacy. We measure the time until visible results appear, ensuring an accurate measure of speed and efficiency. We incorporate feedback from verified user testimonials and reviews for a well-rounded perspective.

Scores reflect comprehensive analysis of performance, duration to effectiveness, and consumer feedback.

The scale we use when determining product effectiveness scores:

  • 5 - Achieved outstanding end results, with rapid benefits and overwhelmingly positive feedback.
  • 4 - Delivered strong results, with benefits apparent in a short time frame and mostly positive reviews.
  • 3 - Met some standards with moderate results, benefits observed in an acceptable timeframe, and mixed reviews.
  • 2 - Showed minimal improvements, long wait for any benefits, and predominantly negative feedback.
  • 1 - Failed to show results, with no benefits in the foreseeable future and poor reviews overall.

Price

Price plays a crucial role in our evaluation process because it affects accessibility and buyer choice.

We assess if a product's cost is justified by comparing supplement servings or equipment features against its price tag. We then compare the product's price to similar items in the market to gauge competitiveness. We also consider the product's overall value: what you get for what you pay.

The final score reflects a balance of affordability and quality, showing how the product stands in terms of value for money.

The scale we use when determining price scores:

  • 5 - The product is priced significantly lower than similar products while offering superior features or servings.
  • 4 - It's priced slightly lower or equal to competitors but offers more features or servings.
  • 3 - The product is priced equivalently to competitors and matches in terms of features or servings.
  • 2 - Priced higher than similar products without justifying the extra cost through additional features or servings.
  • 1 - The product is priced much higher than competitors and lacks comparative features or servings.

Comfort

Comfort is plays a big role in determining how often you use a piece fitness equipment or gear.

For adjustability, we experiment to see if the equipment can adapt to different body sizes and workout styles by altering its settings. Ergonomic design evaluation involves us testing the product's alignment with body posture and movement to prevent injury. Ease of use is gauged by measuring how straightforward it is to use the equipment or fitness gear.

Scores are derived from these hands-on tests, focusing on practicality and satisfaction.

The scale we use when determining comfort scores:

  • 5 - Fully adjustable, perfectly aligns with ergonomic principles, and extremely straightforward to use.
  • 4 - Offers a high level of adjustability, supports correct posture and movements, and is easy to use with minor challenges.
  • 3 - Adequately adjustable for most users, reasonably supports ergonomics, and presents few difficulties in use.
  • 2 - Limited in adjustability, lacks full ergonomic support, and is somewhat challenging to use efficiently.
  • 1 - Fails to offer sufficient adjustability, does not align with ergonomic needs, and is difficult to use effectively.

Durability

Durability ensures fitness equipment can withstand regular usage and maintain reliable performance.

For material and build quality, we assess by subjecting equipment to weight stress tests and checking for wear and tear over a fixed period. Maintenance evaluation involves analyzing ease of cleaning and required upkeep our test team experienced. We examine warranty terms for length and what is covered, comparing across industry standards.

Scores are based on how well the equipment withstands regular use, indicating how well the equipment will last over time.

The scale we use when determining durability scores:

  • 5 - High-grade materials, minimal wear, easy maintenance, warranties over 5 years.
  • 4 - Quality build, minor wear, simple upkeep, 3-5 year warranties.
  • 3 - Decent materials, noticeable wear, regular maintenance, 1-3 year warranties.
  • 2 - Lower-quality, frequent wear, cumbersome upkeep, warranties under 1 year.
  • 1 - Poor materials, quick degradation, constant maintenance, warranties under 6 months.

Battery Life

Battery life is one of the most important factors for fitness trackers and other battery powered gear.

Our testers measure battery duration by using it non-stop until it powers down. Charging time is assessed by timing how long it takes to reach 100% from zero. We consider charger type and whether it's a common or proprietary connector.

Scores reflect the balance between long-lasting use and efficient recharge capabilities.

The scale we use when determining battery life scores:

  • 5 - Exceeds 48 hours of active use, recharges in less than 1 hour, uses a universal charger.
  • 4 - Lasts between 36 to 48 hours, charges fully in 1 to 2 hours, uses a universal charger.
  • 3 - Offers 24 to 36 hours of use, takes 2 to 3 hours to charge, uses a universal charger.
  • 2 - Only works for 12 to 24 hours, requires more than 3 hours to recharge, uses a proprietary charger.
  • 1 - Fails to last 12 hours, charging exceeds 4 hours, uses a proprietary charger.

Features

Fitness equipment features determine how well a product can serve diverse needs and situations.

Our testers examine the versatility of the product to gauge how well it performs with different workouts and routines. We also look for unique features that set the equipment apart, conducting side-by-side comparisons with similar products.

The score reflects our test teams findings on how these aspects add real value to customers.

The scale we use when determining features scores:

  • 5 - Functions well in 5 or more distinct exercises or applications and includes at least 1 feature not found in any competing products.
  • 4 - Functions well in 3 to 4 different exercises or applications and includes at least 1 feature not found in any competing products.
  • 3 - Suitable for 2 to 3 exercises or applications and similar features with competitors, with slight improvements or differences.
  • 2 - Only fits 1 exercise or application well, with no unique features.
  • 1 - Fails to perform adequately even in a single exercise or application, with no unique features.

Capacity

Capacity matters because it shows how much strain equipment can handle.

During tests we push equipment to its limit to measure its actual load capacity compared to what is advertised, gradually increasing weight until it completely fails. To test tensile strength we apply increasing tension, noting when it begins to distort or stretch permanently.

Our scores reflect the equipment's ability to withstand heavy use and stress without compromising functionality.

The scale we use when determining capacity scores:

  • 5 - Exceeds advertised load capacity by 20% and demonstrates exceptional tensile strength above industry norms.
  • 4 - Matches or slightly exceeds advertised load capacity and tensile strength by 1-19%.
  • 3 - Falls slightly short of the advertised load capacity and tensile strength within a margin of 0-9%.
  • 2 - Falls short of the advertised load capacity and tensile strength by 10-20%.
  • 1 - Does not meet the basic requirements, failing below 20% of the advertised load capacity and tensile strength.

Weight

Weight matters for fitness equipment, balancing ease of use and convenience.

We test the portability of the equipment to test if it can be moved easily by a single person. To gauge total weight, we weigh the equipment on a scale and compare it against other options in the category to see if matches the advertised weight.

Scores reflect a blend of portability and total weight.

The scale we use when determining weight scores:

  • 5 - Highly portable and significantly lighter than most similar products.
  • 4 - Easily portable and lighter than many similar products.
  • 3 - Moderate portability and weight, aligning with industry averages.
  • 2 - Limited portability and heavier than most similar products.
  • 1 - Not portable and exceptionally heavier than comparable products.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is important for safety, durability and customer usability.

We check the listed weight limit against actual stress tests, adding weights gradually to observe performance. Our team ensures the equipment does not wobble or deform under maximum stated weight. We also assess the product's ability to recover from being loaded at its limit for extended periods.

The score reflects how well the equipment holds up, factoring in its stability, resilience, and adherence to the claimed weight capacity.

The scale we use when determining weight capacity scores:

5 - Exceeds the listed weight capacity by 10% or more without any signs of strain or deformation.
4 - Matches the listed weight capacity, showing minimal to no signs of stress when tested.
3 - Holds up to 90% of the listed weight capacity before showing minor signs of stress.
2 - Can only support up to 80% of the listed weight capacity before exhibiting clear signs of strain.
1 - Fails to support 80% of the listed weight capacity, showing immediate signs of deformation or instability.

Additional Product Review Guidelines

Some products have factors that include unique considerations for that type of product. Below we detail our additional product review guidelines for a variety of product categories.

Protein Powders and Pre-workouts

Protein Powders and Pre-workouts

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
Ingredient Quality

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.

Price

Testosterone Boosters and Fat Burners

Testosterone Boosters and Fat Burners

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.

Effectiveness

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.

Price 2

Nootropics and Multivitamins

Nootropics and Multivitamins

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.

Effectiveness 2

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.

Price 3

Fitness Equipment

Fitness Equipment

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.

Durability

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.

Shipping

Fitness Trackers

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.
Features

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.

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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.