Buying a Bowflex Home Gym is one of the best ways for anyone to skyrocket their fitness levels. However, knowing which Bowflex model suits you best is always a difficult challenge. To help you with this challenge we created this Bowflex Home Gym Review.
In this article, you’ll find all the information you need to know about Bowflex machines. Also, we’ve included a Bowflex model comparison chart and individual product reviews.
If you only want specific information, you can click the quick navigation links to skip to what you need to find out!
Okay, now let’s get down to business:
What is a Bowflex Home Gym?
A Bowflex home gym is a total body workout machine that grants users the ability to perform gym-quality exercises at home. Bowflex machines were introduced to consumers back in 1986 and had since become one of the most popular fitness machines in this segment. They feature a unique design that is compact, functional and fits perfectly in almost any home.
Over the years, they’ve improved their product to allow a more extensive array of exercises. As a result, even the base Bowflex model can let you do at least 30 gym quality exercises. Bowflex home gyms have a price range from roughly $500 to over $2000 “that prices might vary”. So you should be able to find a cheap Bowflex model that fits in your budget!
In a nutshell, if having a piece of gym-quality equipment that allows you to comfortably workout at home is your goal then a Bowflex is right for you!
Bowflex Home Gyms – How do they work?
To explain how Bowflex machines work you first need to know about their resistance system. Bowflex machines, unlike your typical gym equipment, uses a new weight system that does not rely on gravity known as Power Rod Resistance.
This resistance based system is safer and often more efficient for workouts as it does not rely on physical weights.
Power rods are long weighted tensile steels found at the rear of the machine. These rods are attached to Bowflex’s versatile cable pulleys to facilitate a variety of exercises. While working out, the power rods flex and forms a “Bow Shape” that increases resistance as you pull the cables. And depending on the weight of the rods you attach; you can increase the resistance levels from a base of 5 pounds to a max of 410lbs.
The power rod resistance on the Bowflex helps to reduce joint strain as the resistance increases gradually and is not impacted by gravity.
Also, the power rod resistance stops you from cheating and doing a more thorough workout. Now that you know how Bowflex works check out the chart below that compares Bowflex models and ranks them based on price and value.
Best Bowflex Models of 2022 & Comparison Chart
After months of research and testing compiled the list of the best bowflex models in 2022.
The best bowflex home gyms are:
- Bowflex Xtreme 2SE
- Bowflex PR1000
- Bowflex Blaze
- Bowflex Revolution
- Bowflex Xceed
- Bowflex PR3000
| Bowflex Models | Xtreme 2SE | PR1000 | Blaze | Revolution | Xceed | PR3000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. of Exercises | 70+ | 25 | 60+ | 100 | 65+ | 50 |
| Resistance | Power Rods 210 lb – Upgradable to 410 lbs. | Power Rods – 210 lb | Power Rods 210 lb – Upgradable to 410 lbs | Spiraflex – 210 lbs | Power Rods 210 lb – Upgradable to 410 lbs | Power Rods 210 lb – Upgradable to 310 lbs |
| Bench | Vertical | Horizontal | Horizontal | Vertical | Vertical | Vertical |
| Workout Area Required (LxWxH) | 96″ x 78″ x 83″ | 103″ x 80″ x 82″ | 90″ x 38″ x 83″ | 120″ x 84″ x 83″ | 8′ x 6’5” | 96″ x 78″ x 83″ |
| User Weight | 300 lbs | 300 lbs | 300 lbs | 300 lbs | 300 lbs | 300 lbs |
| Warranty on Frame | 1 Year | 1 Year | 1 Year | 1 Year | 1 Year | 10 Year |
1. Bowflex Xtreme 2SE Review – Best Bowflex Model in 2022
Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE home gym is the updated version of their xtreme SE model. Currently, the Bowflex xtreme 2 se has been crowned as the best Bowflex model to buy in 2022.
All Bowflex models offer great value for money, but the xtreme 2 se home gym tops the chart with its features, warranty, and price. The Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE includes all of their latest innovations. Besides, it provides users with the ability to do over 70+ exercises.
Below we’ve listed the exercises that you can expect to do on your new Bowflex xtreme 2 se home gym:
- Chest Exercises: 6
- Back Exercises: 24
- Ab Workout: 3
- Shoulder Exercises: 16
- Leg Exercises: 12
- Arm Exercises: 24
With the high count of exercises that this Bowflex model offers you can expect that you will be able to target all muscle groups on this machine. Moreover, the Xtreme 2 SE also includes gym style Ab-crunch and a squat bar to do resistance based squat exercises which is a plus that you won’t find on some other models. One more feature that we loved about this model is the inclusion of the No Change Cable Pulleys. This feature has been one of the biggest time savers during your workout session. With the No change pulley system, you will be able to switch between exercises seamlessly.
With this Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE, you also get the ability to upgrade the Power Rod Resistance levels. On this model, the rods are upgradable from 210 lbs to 310 pounds or 410 pounds of power rod resistance. The Bowflex xtreme 2 se home gym also comes with a user manual which provides seven trainer-developed workouts you can follow.
In the manual you’ll find:
- 20-minute upper body Routine
- A 20 minute lower body Routine
- 20 minute better body Routine
- Bodybuilding Routine
- Circuit Training Anaerobic Routine
- True Aerobic
- Strength Training Routine
With that many detailed exercise guides, you’ll be well on your way to fitness if you purchase the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE home gym. The Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE has a dimension of 135 x 124 x 208 cm and requires a workout area dimension of 244 x 196 cm. This model is a bit heavier than other models at 185 pounds. Moreover, it has a user weight limit of 300 pounds.
Pros & Cons of The Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE
Pros
- No Change Cable Pulley System.
- It has a Squat Bar.
- It includes leg attachments
- Compact Design
- Over 70 exercises
- A little Heavier than other models.
Cons
- A little Heavier than other models.
2. Bowflex PR1000 Review – Best Compact Bowflex Home Gym
Bowflex PR1000 is the most compact home gym that they have available. This model is perfect for anyone looking at a starter home gym. It is the least expensive model that they have for sale and includes everything you need for a total body workout. The Bowflex pr1000 gives you the ability to do 25+ exercises that target most muscle groups. It features a sliding bench that facilitates better versatility than models with a vertical bench. This model also allows aerobic rowing as a result of the sliding bench.
One great feature that we appreciated with the PR1000 is the added multimedia rack. With this rack, you can clip in your device and watch the Bowflex online training videos that you get access to upon purchasing a PR1000 model.
The only downside we found after reviewing the Bowflex pr1000 is that you only get 210 pounds of power rod resistance that is not upgradeable. For most persons, 210 pounds is more than they will ever need. But for advanced gym goers or more seasoned weightlifters, the 210lbs is just not enough.
Like most other Bowflex models the Bowflex PR1000 supports a max user weight of 300 pounds. This PR1000 model has a dimension of 208 L x 203 W x 209 H cm and requires a minimum workout area of 203 x 262 cm. It also has a great warranty of 1 year on the frame, 60 days on parts and 5 years on the power rods.
Pros & Cons of The Bowflex PR1000
Pros
- It has a sliding bench – that can be vertical or horizontal.
- The PR1000 includes a multimedia rack.
- It allows 25+ exercises.
- Space saving design
- The PR1000 includes two Free online training videos from Bowflex.
Cons
- Resistance Rods not upgradeable.
- No leg station Included.
3. Bowflex Blaze Review – Best Value for Money
The Bowflex Blaze is the best all-around model of all the different versions we reviewed. It offers the best value for money with the total number of functions that it includes. The Bowflex blaze allows you to do more than 60 exercises and has a base resistance of 210 lbs. Additionally, you get the ability to upgrade the power rod resistance to 310 lbs or 410 lbs.
For anyone that is serious about strength training, the Bowflex Blaze is the best model to choose. So if you can afford to spend a little extra, then a Bowflex Blaze is a great option.
This model also features a versatile workout bench that can be folded down flat or sit vertically. Also, the Bowflex Blaze includes an instructional placard that features a 20-minute exercise routine that you can follow.
Bowflex Blaze has a dimension of 90″ L x 38″ W x 83″ H which is not much more than the Bowflex PR1000.
Pros & Cons of The Bowflex Blaze
Pros
- Allows users to perform over 60 exercises.
- The Power Rod Resistance can go up to 310 pounds or 410 pounds.
- This model includes Bowflex instructional placard.
- It has a folding bench.
Cons
- It does not offer the ability to do aerobic exercises.
4. Bowflex Revolution Review – The Professional Home Gym Model
If you want to go all out and get the top of the line Bowflex model with all the latest technology the Bowflex Revolution is the one to pick. Its style and features greatly outstrip other models and allow for far more versatility. The Bowflex Revolution offers you the capability to perform more than 100 strength training exercises and features optional accessories that you can add on if you desire.
It includes a workout DVD that shows all the exercises you can do plus the standard user manual you get with all Bowflex models.
In addition, the Bowflex revolution also has a moving arm that can be adjusted to 10 positions. Furthermore, you can also fold up the bench of the Bowflex revolution to save a tonne of space in your room.
Regarding dimensions, the revolution model has a measurement of 112″ L x 63″ W x 73″ H when not folded. The Bowflex revolution requires a workout area of 120″ L x 84″ W x 83 H.
However, all this extra goodness comes at a pretty steep cost. But if you want the best of the best then the Bowflex revolution is worth every penny you’ll spend on it!
Pros & Cons of The Bowflex revolution
Pros
- It is the most Versatile Bowflex Model with over 100 exercises.
- Can be folded to save space.
- More comfortable than all other Bowflex models.
- It includes rowing functionality.
- The Bowflex revolution has the most extended warranty of 10 years.
Cons
- It has a higher cost than the other models.
5. Bowflex Xceed Home Gym Review – Bowflex’s Hidden Gem
The Bowflex Xceed is another great home gym model that has previously been sold by Bowflex. Like other models we listed, the xceed carries the ability to perform full body exercises and achieve your fitness goals. It has a base Power rod resistance of 210 pounds and can be upgraded to 310 or 410 pounds. The Bowflex Xceed was built with heavy-duty steel frames which makes it a top quality home gym. Also, the Bowflex Xceed has the versatility to allow 65 exercises, making it a close rival of the Bowflex blaze model.
Regarding cost, the Xceed is reasonably priced and can usually be seen having a price tag. The warranty provided is also Bowflex’s standard 7-year warranty which varies by the retailer you purchase it through online.
Pros & Cons of The Bowflex Xceed
Pros
- Upgradeable Power Rod Resistance.
- Allows you to do 65 exercises.
- It has a reasonable price and great value for money.
Cons
- It requires a fair amount of space to setup.
The Bowflex Xceed is just as good as any other Bowflex home gym model we listed. And features more exercises than the PR3000 and PR1000 so we recommend checking it out. You can read our full Bowflex Xceed Review here.
6. Bowflex PR3000 Review – Good Compact Home Gym
The Bowflex pr3000 is the older brother of the PR1000 model in all respects. It strikes the perfect balance between the higher end models such as the Bowflex blaze and xtreme 2 se in features and price point. The PR3000 is more focused on upper body workouts than other models. With the Bowflex PR3000, you get the ability to 50 gym-quality exercises that target the entire body. It features a vertical bench which makes it compact and saves a bit of space. Besides, you also get the ability to upgrade the power rod resistance to a maximum of 310 pounds.
On the PR3000 model, you also get a Bowflex instructional placard that highlights some workouts you can start immediately. The Bowflex PR3000 also includes the no change cable pulley system which aids in your workouts.
For the dimensions, the PR3000 measures 64″ L x 41″ W x 83″ H and requires a workout area of 96″ L x 78″ W x 83 H. Like other Bowflex models, the bow flex pr3000 also has a user weight limit of 300 pounds.
One disappointing aspect about the PR3000 is the high price; the PR3000 normally has an MRP of about $1000 “that prices might vary”. And with all the features present on this model, we think the Xceed or Blaze model is better to buy. As such we had to rate this model closer to the bottom of the list.
However, we must point out that you sometimes may be able to get a discounted price on the PR3000. All in All, the Bowflex PR3000 is good a good model to consider but only if the price were a bit lower. If you click the link below and see a discounted price, then we recommend giving the PR3000 a shot.
Pros & Cons of The Bowflex PR3000
Pros
- The PR3000 allows you to perform over 50 exercises.
- It has a Compact Space-saving Design.
- No Change Cable Pulley System.
Cons
- Does not have the ability to perform aerobic rows.
- It only has a vertical bench.
FAQ’s
Yes, Bowflex Home Gyms work when used correctly. With almost any model Bowflex you purchase, you will receive a user manual that lists all the exercises available. By following those exercises for a few months, you will start feeling the effects of Bowflex Power Rod Resistance.
Some models of the Bowflex Home gyms can help you to lose weight. The Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE and PR1000 include aerobic type exercises that might help you lose weight. However, Bowflex home gym machines are built for strength training and toning muscles. If your goal is to lose weight, we suggest looking at our comparison of the total gym vs weider ultimate body works.
With any Bowflex model, you will be able to perform gym-quality exercises. You will be able to target all muscle groups and achieve the workout you desire.
The Power Rod Resistance technology that Bowflex uses in its home gyms allow you to build muscles effectively. When developing this technology, their goal was to provide a safe and efficient way for users to build muscle and achieve any fitness goal.
Which Bowflex Home Gym is the best to Buy?
If we had to recommend our favorite Bowflex home gym to buy it would be the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE or the Bowflex PR1000. Between those two home gyms, you’ll be getting the best of both worlds. Our third pick would be the Bowflex Blaze model. Even though we suggested our top 3, you should also decide for yourself after reading out Bowflex home gym reviews.
To choose the model that is most suitable for you here are the criteria to select the model that fits you most:
- Types of Exercises – Before choosing a model make sure you check the variety of exercises of each model.
- Size of the Machine – You also need to ensure that you have enough space to fit the model that you select.
- Maximum User Weight Limit – Most Bowflex home gyms have a user weight limit of 300 pounds. However, if you are over that limit, you can take a look at purchasing the Bowflex Revolution or a home gym from vigorfit or total gym.
How Long Do Bowflex Bows Last?
Most Bowflex Home gyms will last more than a decade if treated properly. The good news is that Bowflex provides sufficient warranty for all models and replacement parts are easy to find.
In Conclusion…
After doing this Bowflex Home Gym Review which took a look at all Bowflex models, we selected the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE as the best model to buy in 2022.
It has all the features of the other models and has a great price point and value for money! If you want a model that is cheaper and more beginner friendly we recommend the Bowflex pr1000 model.
All home gyms from Bowflex are of excellent quality and are very useful in helping you achieve your fitness goals! Buying a Bowflex allows you to cut monthly gym fees and will enable you to exercise whenever you like. You won’t go wrong with choosing any of the models listed. Let us know which model you picked in the comments!