Bowflex Tips

Reviews on Bowflex Ultimate XTLU Excellent workout and fantastic quality I looked through the pros and cons for this product after having mine for six months and decided to write a review. I bought mine used, a...

Reviews on Bowflex Power Pro Safe Total Body Work Out I purchased the Bowflex Power Pro after researching the various models. The Power Pro is the basic model. It does not include the leg ex...

This review is actually an update. My first review was my first ever epinions.com review and at that time, I didn’t know what to write.

I watch a lot of TV and I see the informmercials for Bowflex and Total Gym all the time. I’ve been wanting to do some kind of strength training regimen but what’s the best way to do it?

I’ve considered a gym membership, but honestly, working 12-hour night shifts (I’m a nurse), I don’t think I’ll have the energy after work to exercise. So, I know that money will go down the drain for nothing.

I bought the Bowflex over the Total Gym because I feel that the machine is more upgradable for future needs. I do find it expensive, but it’s an investment that I’m willing to dive into.

The machine was shipped via UPS and it came in two boxes. One was the main body which weighed a ton. The second box is the leg attachment.

The assembly process was a bit tedious. I helps to have powertools to tighten all the nuts and bolts. Some places are a bit of a crunch to get your hands into, but it’s manageable. It took approximately 2 hours to assemble.

There are over 60 exercises that can be accomplished with the Bowflex using their patented Power Rods instead of weights. The range of movement is very fluid and you are not locked into one repetitive motion. With a slight change of stance or angle, you can change the intensity of your workout. The machine can be upgraded with more “weights,” a lat tower, and squat attachment for more exercise options.

I like the sliding seat which is primarily used as a rowing feature — a good aerobic exercise. As time progressed, the seat assembly would rub on the inside track metal which caused some metal scraping and friction. After much frustration, I called the customer service number and they replaced the assembly free of charge. It’s working fine now, I’m happy to report.

The machine came with an instruction manual on how to perform the exercises as well as an instructional video. I like the video because I learn easier when presented visually as opposed to reading it. I do however like the instructional manual because it talks about the kind of goal you want to achieve from gaining strength, endurance, power, flexibility, and the like. It also gives you a “menu” of exercises depending on what you want to accomplish with your body (a better body, advanced general conditioning, body building, circuit training, true aerobic circuit training, and strength training). Finally, the back part of the book contains more information on checking body fat percentage, calculating lean body mass, and a regimen written by Dr. Darden on a “quick” way to loss the weight and gain muscles. Personally, I haven’t tried his regimen because it goes against my Atkins Diet. : )

The placement of the machine needs to be considered because when you work out, it does take space. You have to take into consideration your arm length and the flexing area of the Power Rods when placing the machine. The lower body exercises can be a bit awkward to perform especially when working on the inner and outer thighs and the back of your quads/and buttocks.

Bottom line: I use my machine regularly and I’m happy that I bought it. In combination with the Atkins Diet, Taebo, and Bowflex, I’ve lost 72 pounds! It’s been a year since I started my “enlightenment” and I still feel motivated. On a different note, these exercises can be accomplished cheaper by buying free weights and a bench. I went for the Bowflex because of personal preference.

Reviews on Bowflex SelectTech Dumbells Buff up with the Bowflex Dumbbells Noting that I work out on a regular basis is an understatement as I find myself in the gym hitting the irons early in the morning when most ...

Reviews on Bowflex Power Pro XTL Overweight woman, 5′ 10″, seeks better body — can Bowflex deliver? I got my Bowflex Power Pro XTL a few days after New Year's -- just in time for that traditional resolution to get in shape! I'm a woman, 5' ...

Reviews on Bowflex Motivator Motivator will motivate you. The Bowflex Motivator is a great way to get in shape. It doesn't take up too much space, provided that you u have a 6' by 6'6" area in your ...

Reviews on Bowflex Power Pro XT Great All Around Workout! I bought my Bowflex in Jan. 01. My goal was to gain strength and lose weight. The Bowflex was a little difficult to put together, but I'm ...

Reviews on Bowflex Power Pro XTLU Bowflex Power Pro XTLU: A Less Expensive Alternative To The Ultimate The Bowflex Power Pro XTLU is the highest end model of the Power Pro line. It's about $400 cheaper than the Bowflex Ultimate, which is my fa...

Reviews on Bowflex Power Pro XTL Going against the flow, I prefer free weights by far. I have used the Bowflex at work for nearly 1.5 years. I have a full set of dumbells at home. I prefer my dumbells every time for every upper...

Reviews on Bowflex Power Pro XTL I’ll Never Go Back to Free Weights!!!

Reviews on Bowflex Xtreme XLU Bowflex Xtreme XLU - An ‘Xtreme’ Approach To Working Out… A Fine Machine!