Great weight machine without free/stacked weights.
Written: Feb 11 '02
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Product Rating:
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Pros: You may push heavy weights without fear of injury.
Cons: Expensive
The Bottom Line: Great for busy people wanting resistance training.
Keep fingers clear of the sliding seat/bench and power rods. Perfect for parents who want resistance training but cannot leave home.
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| fireguyx's Full Review: Bowflex Power Pro |
I had seen the Bowflex advertised for quite some time but had never given the purchase of one serious consideration
until a few co-workers had mentioned how good this machine was.
As a boxer and firefighter physical fitness and strength training are a big part of my active lifestyle.
As a busy dad it was difficult to work out and lift heavy weights at the gym because I had my children to consider and they were not always happy at the childcare room provided (for a fee) at the gym. I had cardio equipment at home but still lacked the availability of heavy resistance training until I purchased the Bowflex Power Pro.
The Bowflex provides excellent smooth resistance that does not seem to bother my shoulders.
I feel confident in using the Bowflex when pushing heavy resistance because I do not need anyone to "spot" me.
410lbs (I upgraded from 210) of resistance is a challenge for most people, and even if you can bench press 410lbs in free weights who says that you would be able to handle 410lbs on the Bowflex.
It seems true, as mentioned in other reviews on the Bowflex, that the resistance provided by the power rods is not exact to that of free weights but the difference in the end is negligible. In answer to those who suggest free weights are more effective, "resistance is resistance regardless of source".
The Bowflex is relatively quiet and very well constructed.
No doubt about it the Bowflex is expensive and they certainly make their money off of this machine but I consider the price well worth it.
I did not like the idea of using heavy stacks of weight in a machine in my basement where my children would be more likely to hurt themselves if they got too close to daddy working out. They still have to stay clear of the power rods when in motion but I do feel more comfortable and safer using the Bowflex over free weights or machines that incorporate stacked weight.
I ordered by phone and asked about any specials. They gave me a free upgrade from 210lbs of resistance to 410lbs. I live in Canada and ordered from the west coast and received it here in Ontario within 1 1/2 weeks. Once delivered it was relatively easy to put together and I had no problems.
The resistance starts as low as 10lbs and goes up from there. The Bowflex is easy to use and a real challenge if you want to work hard and get or stay in shape. I did however find that I wanted a better workout for my legs and desired a traditional position for the bench press so I called and asked if there were any specials on their squat attachment.
They said they did have a used squat attachment they could sell me. The normal Canadian price would have been $249.00 plus $35.00 but they sent me a used/returned one for $200.00 total. They said it was used but it is in perfect condition except for two missing pulleys/cables. I called to inform them of the missing parts and two new pulleys/cables arrived at my door in two business days.
Overall, despite the dent in my wallet, I am very satisfied.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
fireguyx
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Reviews written: 1
Trusted by: 0 members
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