I purchased the Bowflex Power Pro after researching the various models. The Power Pro is the basic model. It does not include the leg extension or the overhead apparatus. With this model, I am able to exercise all the muscle groups.

I chose the basic Bowflex mainly for these reasons. Firstly, I believe in the concept of circuit training. That is, I think it is important to have variety in our exercise programs. I mix Tae-bo , golfing, walking, dumb bell exercises, and other sports into my routine. So because I only wanted this to be a part of my exercise program, I opted for the most basic and economical option.

It is a well known phenomena that as we age or bodies tend to loose muscle mass. Typically, as much as one half pound of muscle is lost per year after the age of, I think, twenty five. Muscle burns calories at a much higher rate than the rest of the body. This loss of muscle is why so many of us get chubby as we age. Because I usually workout by myself, I felt the Power Pro would be a safe substitute for working out with barbells. In order to add fat attacking muscle mass, you need to really challenge the large muscle groups.

Another reason I chose the Power Pro had to do with space. My unit sits toward the back of my work room and I felt that I just didn't have the additional room for the add-ons. This basic unit still takes up some space. I would say you'll need an 8' by 8' area devoted to this. You can, if you choose, fold the Bowflex away when you are not using the unit.

Safety is another factor to consider. With the Bowflex, you can exercise muscle groups to the point of failure without the need of a partner to 'spot' for you. The Bowflex provides resistance thru use of composite power rods. As you exercise you bend the rods similar to bending the bow of a bow and arrow. The various rods are rated at a particular weight but the listed weight is only an approximation of barbell weights. If you can bench press 200 lbs. you may not be able to bench press 200 on the Bowflex.

The Power Pro was easy to assemble. It just took a couple of hand tools and a modicum of patience. The machine has held up well over time. I've only had minor problems with the unit. The handles that my unit came with were pretty flimsy and I had to get a new pair. These seem more substantial.

I get a good total body workout in about a half hour. You can exercise all muscle groups with this basic unit. Even though you can exercise the legs with this model, I wish that I'd went ahead and purchased the leg extension at the time of purchase. I find it easy to go from exercise to exercise and get my heart rate going. If you are used to using barbells, it may take a bit of getting used to the cable system. The Power Pro causes you to exercise the stabilizer muscles in order to control the resistance. This will give you a smoother physique as opposed to the bulkier free weight look.

I think one of the best benefits of using the Power Pro is it's assistance in fat burning. Because it helps you to add muscle mass, it increases your fat burning capability even while resting. I'm a guy that likes to eat and I certainly take in more calories than recommended so any assistance in burning fat is greatly appreciated. Of course, I'm not a physician and any experience of mine is purely antidotal.

The Power Pro has been a good addition to my exercise regimen. It provides a safe and enjoyable workout. If I had it to do over I would get the leg extension option. I think that I'd still pass on the overhead pull down attachment. But I would recommend this unit for those who are looking for a safe way to replicate working out with free weights at home. The Bowflex power pro can be a worthwhile investment in your overall health and well being.


Recommended: Yes