The decision to purchase a Bowflex should not be taken lightly. After all, a home gym is a fairly expensive investment - even with the introductory models. Two of the most popular models include the Bowflex FT and XP. Before making a purchase, several questions must be answered to find the one that is right for you. Factors to consider include your fitness level, home environment, workout habits, goals, and budget.
Before deciding to purchase a Bowflex, you need to assess the following:
Your Fitness Level
The Bowflex FT is a good machine for beginning and intermediate bodybuilders and weightlifters. It offers up to 280 lbs of upper body resistance and offers over 100 different exercises with 400 variations. This is the maximum amount of resistance offered by both machines. In terms of fitness levels, they are both targeted for the general public. Considering it takes most people 3-5 yrs of hard training to become an advanced bodybuilder, they offer more than enough weight for the average person. What they are not optimized for is strongman and hardcore weightlifters. For this a local gym would be the best solution since they offer unlimited weights.
The Right Home To Workout With A Bowflex
Size and space need to be considered when storing and using a Bowflex home gym. The FT is a slightly smaller and lighter version of the XP. Where as the XP measures 38" wide x 65" long x 73" tall (with lat tower), the FT measures in with a smaller height of 48 inches (due to lack of lat tower. makes the FT more suitable for low ceilings and lofts. The weight of the machines without weights is 337 lbs. The only difference in the dimensions of the two models is the FT is lacks the lat tower, thereby making it shorter.
Workout Habits and Motivation
As with any exercise program you must commit yourself to a consistent workout program. The Bowflex will not make you magically slimmer or buff if you don't adhere to a regular schedule. Do not look for excuses or distractions when working out at home. Both models offer a ton of exercises with the only difference being the XP offers a lat tower. If you feel you can't work out at home consistently, then find a workout partner to join you. This is a great way to motivate yourself and stay dedicated.
Workout Goals and Budget
The Bowflex XP and FT are targeted for beginner and intermediate weight lifters. In essence, the FT is a retail version of the XP and only differs in that it does not have a lat tower attachment. If this is a priority for your workouts then the XP maybe a better choice, However, the lower price of the FT makes it a better value. If you fall into the advanced fitness level, it would be more beneficial to join a local gym.
He is an LA resident and fitness enthusiast
Posted in: Fitness