I purchased my Bowflex because of the quality of construction and the positive word of mouth I received from a relative and internet reviews like this one. I chose the Xtreme 2 model because you do not have to adjust cables/pulleys for certain exercises and it has a compact design. The machine is easy to put together and use (About 2 Hrs taking your time). The machine looks good and the overall construction is top notch. The pulley system has several adjustment settings that take a few seconds to adjust for each user or exercise. The pull down bar, hand grips and leg attachment work well. Exercises are smooth from the start (I thought it might take time to get use to the machine but it does not). The power rods and seat are easy to adjust. I did not have a problem with the seat lifting up on leg exercises that another reviewer had. The machine is capable of doing 70 exercises (Bowflex Claim). I currently do the following exercises on my machine. (Leg Kicks, Leg Curl, Bench Press, Triceps Push downs, Bicep Curls,Lat Pull downs, Ab Crunches, Trunk Rotation, Lat shoulder raises and Seated shoulder presses). I get a much better overall workout than with my free weights.

I would recommend getting the Bowflex body plan book with your purchase (They should include it if you ask). The diet plan is easy to follow and uses items that are easy to take/store in most work environments. If speed and convenience is what you are looking for this plan is for you. A side benefit of the plan is the money you will save in food expenditures. (I am saving approx $50-75 a week). The exercise program is explained well and the author picks the best exercises to use on your Bowflex. New exercises are added as you progress through the plan.
You will see results after the first two weeks which will help you stay on the plan.

I just started the complete 6 week program in the book (No cheating). However, my comments are coming from the fact I lost 25 lbs loosely following the diet/exercise program from Thanksgiving - New Years Day (some cheating in the diet plan because of the holiday season). My goal is to achieve the averages posted in the book (Approx fat loss 30lbs with a lean muscle gain around 3-4lbs).

I would recommend this machine to anyone who does not have a workout partner (The machine allows you to push yourself safely) and needs a diet plan that is simple to follow and convenient for the professional on the go.



Recommended: Yes