“American Gladiators” is back and better than ever.

It has a new look with two new commentators, the beautiful Laila Ali and the legendary Hulk Hogan, a vamped up set, all new gladiators and new events. And let’s not forget the return of the much-loved old events.

The hiatus was finally over Jan. 6, when NBC aired the first of a two-night premiere.

I was excited when I heard the show was coming back. I had watched the show when I was a kid and loved it. My family and I would all pile on the couch at the designated time, pick our contestant and root for him or her to win. It was a great family time with everyone gathered together doing something we all enjoyed.

Last Monday night, I was finally able to sit down and watch an entire episode of the new “American Gladiators.” I had caught a few minutes here and there of previous episodes, but not enough to really get into it or follow what was happening. And last night as I was watching, I realized a few things. I realized why it’s such a great show.

First, it’s fun. Getting to pick your favorite contender and cheering him or her on is fun. And it’s even more fun when they win.

The fast paced action also keeps you interested. The battle against the gladiators, whether the outcome is loss or victory, is invigorating. It’s that basic concept of overcoming obstacles. Basically, it gets you pumped.

Second, it’s multigenerational. It’s the kind of show that you won’t feel embarrassed watching with your grandparents, parents and small children. It’s not a violent show, nor is it sexual (OK, yes there is a lot of cleavage, but where don’t we see cleavage these days?). I feel safe letting my daughter watch with my husband and me.

And third, women can watch it and like it. Now ladies, I don’t watch sports much. When I do, I don’t want to sit through the whole game, just the highlights – the exciting bits. For me to watch a sports event it has to be pretty exciting to keep me interested. But “American Gladiators” is nothing but highlights and exciting bits. It holds my attention.

There is enough action packed into that show to keep me watching it in its entirety, leave me disappointed when it’s over and looking forward to the next episode.

So there you have it.

“American Gladiators” is fun, exciting, multigenerational and not gender specific (and it doesn’t hurt that it may inspire you to get to the gym more often). So if you haven’t caught an episode yet, make a date with your TV on Monday night.