Bowflex Reviews?

[v-sly]

Anybody have a bowflex? What do you think about it - do you use it, do you use it more than if you went to the gym? Which model do you have? I'm considering buying a bowflex but would like some feedback on others' experience. I like lifting weights and doing resistance training and think I might do it more often at home. I also do pilates and run and think this might be a great addition to my routine and I really hate going to the gym to lift.

[cmcole]

Bowflex can be great, or it can be a big disappointment.

You are not always guaranteed the workout you expect, because the tension does not always stay consistent.

If you have the opportunity, try out one already set up, and compare it to one with weight plates, cables and pulleys.

See if you like one better than the other.

Obviously, you'll only use the one you are most comfortable with - regardless of what it's called.

[v-sly]

ok, so I got the video in the mail today and watched it. It looks great and I feel like I'd use it more than I go to the gym. I would love to hear anyone else's experiences with home gyms or bowflex. Do you use it? I am going to go to a place this weekend and try one out but in the meantime I'd love to hear if any of you have one or something similar and if you use it for exercise or to dry clothes on. Tell me what to do...I'm no good with big purchase/big decisions. Thanks, V-Sly

PS. Also I tend to have insomnia on occasion and this could be something productive to do in the middle of the night rather than surfing the net or cleaning house.

[Emo_Boy]

Well. The machine is only as good as how much you use it! If you use it often and do the right exercises it is a great machine! Good luck and happy Atkinings!

[vikski]

I had the original model Bowflex when it was marketed by Schwinn. I absolutely loved it. I think it's the best home gym out there. I didn't find any inconsistencies with the machine. It worked well for me and my husband and definitely recommend it to anyone looking at a home gym! I would love to buy the new model with the leg ext. and lat pull down.

[v-sly]

Thanks - that's what I was looking for. I'm looking at the one with the leg extension and lat pull down bar - if I can swing it financially. I am very excited and so sick of the gym. Also my husband will use it too as he won't go to the gym - he hates gyms. Thanks Vikski!

[Isabeau]

I have the Weider equivalent to a Cross Bow, and I absolutely love it. I'm addicted to weight training now. Because home gyms are quite expensive, I did a lot of research into them, and after reading several reviews, I was convinced to buy the Weider. Basically, it's a great deal financially. I have not had a problem with inconsistency in resistance at all. The Weider comes standard with the lat pulldowns and leg extension apparatus. Kinda cool that you can also use it aerobically if you wanted, as it has a rowing machine too. Weider also has an awesome customer service department. The video that came with it was messed up, and one part was missing. Everything arrived two days after the toll free call was made.

[v-sly]

I've not heard of this brand. Do you mind if I ask how much you spent? The money part is a big factor for me so I'm very interested in less-advertised brands.

[floydgirl]

I have a bowflex and I LOVE IT!!!!!! I started using it in Jan., and so far I have lost 7 inches, which is phenomenal for me. I am so addicted to weight-lifting. It is the best investment I've ever made. I saw a lot of people this weekend that I haven't seen since Christmas time. Everybody said about how much thinner I am. In all actuality, I haven't really lost a lot of pounds since Christmas, it must be the inches. Thank you bowflex!!!

[v-sly]

Floydgirl - which model do you have? I'm going to get one - I'm trying to decide which model to get (and which one I can afford). I'm excited!