The 6 Best Bowflex Home Gym Options for 2023 | Ranked and Reviewed
Are you looking for the Best Bowflex home gym machines to get shredded in 2023? If you are, then I have you covered. I’ve got the Bowflex home gym reviews you need!
Over the years, the Bowflex machine has evolved and become more user-friendly while expanding the options and different types of models available to suit most user needs. Additionally, the best Bowflex machine has become more readily available, including different options on Amazon, which with the free shipping option on many models, makes getting a new Bowflex gym much more accessible.
The Bowflex machine is a great home gym system for any experience level and age. Our best Bowflex review covers price points, features, usability…essentially everything required for an informed buying decision. After taking all factors into account, our top pick is hand-picked with fitness enthusiasts’ needs firmly in mind; convenience seekers will love our budget-friendly recommendation too.
As an Amazon and Bowflex affiliate, I may make a commission on purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.
Why Choose a Bowflex Home Gym? [Benefits of a Bowflex Home Gym]
Buying a Bowflex personal or garage gym is a big purchase, so before you pull the trigger, there are a few things you should ask yourself:
- Why should I buy a Bowflex versus other brands?
- Is The Bowflex Quality Good?
- Why do I want a Bowflex home gym?
- What are my plans once I get one?
- Which of the best Bowflex machines is right for me?
Now, look at the 6 best Bowflex home gym machines of 2023. It’s time for some Bowflex reviews!
Top Bowflex Home Gyms: 2023 Review and Comparison
1. Bowflex Blaze Home Gym
The Bowflex Blaze home gym takes our top spot as the best Bowflex gym of 2023.
The Blaze is very similar to one of the previous models, the Ultimate 2, which was one of the most popular earlier models due to its design and options.
While the Bowflex Blaze machine takes up a bit more room when assembled, it is one of the only remaining models with a long bench and sliding seat design, perfect for getting a full range of motion with aerobic rowing exercises, leg extensions, and leg presses, which are must-have staples for any great workout regimen.
The Blaze offers a sliding seat rail that will enable it to perform aerobic rowing machine cardio exercises and strength training. In contrast, leg presses allow an intense circuit workout or HIIT that will get any athlete ready to go strong again after just one session on this fantastic workout machine.
For a total body workout with a full range of motion and maximum resistance throughout, you can take advantage of the leg extension option for the lower body, the lat bar for the upper body, or any of the features in between for an all-over workout experience, all counted as part of the 60 exercises listed for this machine.
The Blaze comes with a standard rod resistance of 210 lbs but is one of the few models allowing the Bowflex power rod resistance levels to upgrade up to a maximum resistance of 410 pounds, leaving more room for growing stronger and stronger by having the right tool to do so.
The Bowflex Blaze gym offers the most bang for the buck. It does not disappoint, as its price tag (often under $900 on Amazon) and the number of gym-quality exercises due to its design for strength training and cardio exercise make this the best Bowflex of 2023.
Product Pros
Product Cons
2. Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym
The Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym is probably the Bowflex model with the most features, the most possible number of resistance exercises, and up to 410 lbs upgrade.
It also gives the most available places to place your pulleys for various exercise options.
So why is the Xtreme 2SE not the #1 best Bowflex gym? The price tag. The Bowflex Xtreme 2SE is around $1500 on the Bowflex website, twice as much as our most recommended Bowflex model above.
And while the Bowflex Xtreme 2SE machine does offer more overall exercise options due to multiple available places to put the pulleys in its pulley system, it does not provide the ability to do aerobic rowing, which many people enjoy. The Bowflex Xtreme 2SE model offers many possible exercises (70 exercises), and the Bowflex power rod resistance system is upgradeable to 410 lbs.
Still, in my experience, many people tend to only concentrate on the same 30 or 40 total different exercises, so you might never use the remainder.
That said, the Bowflex Xtreme 2SE is excellent, and if a lot of variants of possible number of exercises are your thing and money is not an issue, this vertical machine might be the piece of equipment for you, especially if you need to save some workout space anyway.
Product Pros
Product Cons
3. Bowflex Xceed Home Gym
The best Bowflex machine budget pick for 2023 is the Bowflex Xceed Home Gym.
The Bowflex Xceed Home gym can be picked up frequently for under $700 on Amazon, and it has an upgrade option for up to 310 pounds of maximum resistance weight (from the standard 210 pounds of resistance).
And although the Xceed does not have the option for leg presses similar to the Blaze, it does have a squat bar accessory, allowing for stand-up squat exercises.
One unique thing we love about the Bowflex Xceed machine is that it also has an additional option for placement of the pulleys (right behind the shoulders), which the Blaze does not offer.
Because of this optional placement, the Xceed flaunts that up to 65 different exercises are available, compared to the 60 exercises of the Blaze.
At its price, its option to upgrade resistance weight, and its ability to move the cable pulley system placement for a variety of exercises, the Bowflex Xceed has exceeded our expectations.
When we look at the Bowflex Blaze VS Xceed home gym, these are very similar home gym machines in their power rod resistance training options. However, the Bowflex Blaze home and compact home gym take the lead for those who want to perform resistance aerobic exercises and even some cardio training with body weight.
Product Pros
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4. Bowflex PR1000 Home Gym
Third on the list is the Bowflex PR1000 Home Gym machine.
You might notice that the Bowflex PR1000 looks much like the Blaze above, and you are right. That said, they have two main differences: the price tag and the other options.
While the PR1000 machine typically comes in several hundred dollars cheaper than the Blaze, there is no ability to upgrade to 310 or 410 pounds of the classic power rod resistance. Currently, the PR1000 comes with the standard 210 pounds of resistance. Still, with no ability to upgrade resistance with additional power rods, you might find yourself abandoning your machine for something with more weight resistance for your full-body strength training or exercise routines.
It also does not come with a lat pulldown bar (which most models do) nor a squat bar, and the total number of different exercises is promoted as 25, much lower than other Bowflex home gym models.
That said, the Bowflex PR1000 does have a folding bench for convenience. But at its price point (typically around the $600 range) and because it does offer the ability as an aerobic rowing machine and still this Bowflex machine offers decent weight resistance throughout the movements, the Bowflex PR1000 review makes our list of the top 6 best Bowflex list of 2023.
Product Pros
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5. Bowflex Revolution Home Gym
The Bowflex Revolution Home Gym is one of the first models to abandon the older Bowflex models with the rod resistance feature.
The new system, called Spiraflex Technology, eliminates the rod resistance instead of inertia-based cable resistance.
The Bowflex Revolution also abandons the old design of a lat tower and has two moving arms, each with ten available positions for intense workout angle variation. Because of the multi-angle arms resistance and the sliding seat design we have seen in previous models, the Bowflex Revolution boasts over 100 exercises available to pump your heart rate during your full body workout.
Although those options are tremendous and a significant step forward in the evolution of the Bowflex brand, the Revolution machine offers two major flaws. First, the piece of equipment comes with a base of 210 pounds of resistance and is available up to 300 pounds (Bowflex says with the leg press, this weight resistance is equal to 600 pounds), but no further as are available on some other Bowflex models.
The second issue with the Revolution is the price tag. It is a newer model and design and one of the more expensive models, priced at just under $3,000 on the Bowflex website. So yes, the Bowflex Revolution has many features and offers a ton of exercise options that you can perform.
Still, at its price point, it will not be an option for many looking for the resistance of a Bowflex machine who don’t care about the Spiraflex technology and would be fine with the basic Bowflex power rods. I believe it should only be considered a viable exercise option by those more experienced in the fitness realm.
It isn’t the best Bowflex machine for most, but few will appreciate its options, especially the ability to do different 100 exercises and the Spiraflex technology.
Product Pros
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6. Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym
The Bowflex PR3000 is a great total-body gym machine that requires no cable changes between sets.
With over 50 strength exercises and an easy-to-use Power Rod technology system, this piece of exercise equipment will have you looking strong in no time.
While the Bowflex PR3000 station has many features, it’s got one that no other unit has; the Quick Change Power Rod® system. This system allows you to quickly switch between power rods and several different exercises and positions without manually adjusting resistance cables between movements.
The PR3000 machine comes with the traditional 210 pounds weight resistance, but the resistance levels are upgradeable to 310 lbs with additional power rods. Unfortunately, that’s the highest this goes. While 310 lbs might be more than enough for some, more experienced weight lifters might want to target a piece of equipment that can do the 410 lbs upgrade.
As we have seen with other best Bowflex machines, there is a recommended number of available exercise options, with the Bowflex PR3000 home gym being 50 exercises. The home fitness equipment can also have leg extension and leg curls with its four-inch upholstered roller cushions. This is a compact home gym, but no rowing exercises are available.
But this piece of fitness equipment is a workout space saver. The PR3000 is one of their older pieces of equipment, and even though they have stopped selling it on the company website, they still sell the unit through Amazon.
This is worthy of a look if you are looking for a compact exercise machine for small spaces and don’t care about rowing workouts. The above-mentioned Xceed offers a similar style setup, compact capabilities for those with limited space, and more available exercise options. However, it does not have the fast change exercises option, which might be important to some.
Product Pros
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Comparing the Best Bowflex Home Gyms of 2023
| Model | Bowflex PR1000 Home Gym | Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym | Bowflex Blaze Home Gym | Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym | Bowflex Xceed Home Gym | Bowflex Revolution Home Gym |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. of exercises | 26+ | 50+ | 60+ | 70+ | 65+ | 100 |
| Resistance | Power Rod Resistance 210 lb. | Power Rod Resistance 210 lb. (upgradable to 310 lb.) | Power Rod Resistance 210 lb. (upgradable to 410 lb.) | Power Rod Resistance 210 lb. (upgradable to 410 lb.) | Power Rod Resistance 210 lb. (upgradable to 410 lb.) | SpiraFlex, 210 lb. |
| Quick Change System | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Media Rack | ✓ | |||||
| Instructional Placard | ✓ | ✓ | ||||
| Bench Press | Horizontal | Vertical | Horizontal | Vertical | Vertical | Vertical |
| Leg Extension / Curl | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Squat Bar | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Folding | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Aerobic Rowing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Bowflex vs. Other Gym Brands: Why Choose Bowflex?
The best Bowflex machine is a well-known brand that has been making home exercise and strength training equipment since 1986. These Bowflex gyms are affordable for home workouts and strength training, especially for those who are not interested in or not ready to go to a public gym to exercise and work out.
The power rod technology is easy to understand and use, making it a great option for home gym owners for beginners and experienced workouts alike. While they are well known, their gyms, like other brand home gyms, the exercise equipment only work when used.
If you want to lose weight, get your heart rate up, gain muscle mass, etc, you have to spend time with the machine. The best Bowflex home gym is the one you will use, whether trying to lose weight.
The company strives to create versatile home gyms with many options for strength training and exercise options. They help the user find it easy to engage with and use in a way that brings long-term results and helps you reach your fitness goals on your fitness journey.
Check out our review of the Bowflex 552 Adjustable Dumbbells HERE.
Quality and Construction of Bowflex Home Gyms
The quality of different Bowflex home gym models depends on many factors. The most important factor is the caliber of the materials used to manufacture the exercise machine.
Most Bowflex gyms use patented power rod technology and are made from high-quality materials, such as heavy-duty steel, stainless steel, or aluminum. However, some lower-quality options use cheaper materials, such as plastic.
If you need to change or are looking to upgrade the stock accessories that come with your machine, like the hand grips, latissumus bar, ab training strap, ankle cuffs, etc, we wrote an article with our recommended Bowflex machine upgrades HERE.
Another factor that affects the quality of a Bowflex gym is the assembly. Some of the Bowflex gyms are easier to put together than others. If you’re unfamiliar with assembling a gym, choosing a Bowflex model with easy-to-follow instructions is best.
Finally, the warranty is another important factor when choosing a Bowflex home gym machine. Some come with limited warranties, while others offer full coverage. If you’re unsure which warranty is right for you, it’s best to contact the manufacturer.
Is a Bowflex Home Gym Worth the Investment and the Price?
When considering a Bowflex gym, it’s essential to reflect on your motivations and fitness goals. Ask yourself, “Why do I want a Bowflex gym?” Are you seeking to improve your health, lose weight, or transform your physique? Investing in any strength training or total-body workout equipment, including Bowflex machines, is a significant commitment.
Bowflex gyms can replace a range of equipment, from rowing machines and power cages to weight benches for bench presses. Understanding your motivations and ensuring a home gym can meet your needs is a critical first step.
The value of a Bowflex gym machine is subjective and largely depends on an individual’s fitness goals and budget. However, many believe that these max strength training and exercise machines offer excellent value for their price. The unique design and power rod technology accommodate multiple users, making them suitable for families or those seeking a comprehensive full-body workout at home.
Moreover, Bowflex machines are built to last, so you can expect to enjoy years of full-body workouts from your investment. While the company’s focus is on upper body workouts and exercise options, some features can target the lower body, such as the leg curl attachment and ankle cuffs.
Additionally, most of the company’s offerings now come with a 1-year subscription to their JRNY app, which features at-home workout videos. This can be a valuable resource for anyone wanting to utilize the media rack on their unit and follow instructional videos.
Ultimately, the decision of whether a Bowflex gym is worth the cost is up to the individual buyer. Consider your fitness goals, the features you value most, and your budget before making a decision.
Planning Your Workout Routine with a Bowflex Home Gym
When it comes to purchasing full body workout equipment like a Bowflex gym, one of the biggest mistakes is underestimating the effort required to get your money’s worth and achieve a full range of motion during your training. Simply investing in a home gym resistance machine does not guarantee physical results, as getting in shape, losing weight, and building strength takes time and energy.
To make the most of your Bowflex equipment, think about what exercises you want to do with it and how much time you can commit to using it. Consider the features of the machine, such as the leg extension and lat bar, high-density foam handle grip, and its ability to target different muscle groups. Visualize yourself using the piece of equipment and set clear fitness goals to help you take advantage of its capabilities.
While the Bowflex resistance machine cannot magically transform your physique, it can be a valuable tool to help you achieve your fitness goals with dedication and effort.
Choosing the Right Bowflex Home Gym for Your Needs
Even though I recommended the best Bowflex home gym of 2023, the Bowflex Blaze Home Gym Machine, those buying a new gym might realize that one of the other models, such as the Bowflex Xtreme 2SE or the Bowflex PR3000, has a specific feature that better suits you and your needs.
The leg extension, lat bar, style and design, features, options, and weight all play a part in your decision when you consider before buying what is important.
When it comes time to buying a Bowflex, there are questions you should be asking yourself. What features are important to you? The rowing machine? The folding bench? What exercise options do you want to use? Do you bench press? Are pull-ups important to you? What about custom workouts, strength training, cardio exercise, resistance training with rod technology, and working legs, arms, and upper body? Will this work my entire body with a full range of motion? The versatility? Are 310 lbs enough, or do you need 410 lbs? What are your fitness goals?
Bowflex machines need a mix of suitable options and prices to be the right option, so spend some time researching online, looking at fitness and gym reviews, and deciding what’s best for YOU!
The Power Rod System: Bowflex’s Secret Sauce
Bowflex’s power rod system is the secret ingredient that sets it apart in the world of home fitness. This unique tension-based mechanism is akin to the experience of drawing back an arrow in archery – simple at the start, but the real challenge emerges as you pull further. This design is not only gentle on your joints compared to traditional weights but also introduces a different type of more consistent resistance used throughout each movement.
However, it’s essential to note that power rod resistance training on a Bowflex machine is not the same as using standard weights. While a Bowflex resistance rod may say it offers 50 lbs of resistance, it doesn’t equate to a 50 lb free weight.
The resistance provided by a Bowflex machine feels lighter during exercises due to the rod, cable, and pulley system’s nature, which delivers a more consistent resistance similar to resistance bands. Therefore, you may need to increase the weight on your Bowflex machine to perform the same number of exercises and see the same results as with free weights.
Despite this, the beauty of the power rod system lies in its versatility and effectiveness. It supports a vast number of exercises, allowing you to target different muscle groups and achieve a full range of motion with more overall intensity. Whether you’re aiming to tone your arms, hone your abs, or strengthen your back, the power rod system has an exercise for that. It’s a commitment to a lifestyle of fitness and well-being and an investment in a stronger, healthier you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bowflex Home Gyms
Bowflex Frequently Asked Questions
Final Verdict: The Best Bowflex Home Gym of 2023
So, what’s the verdict? Should you get one or keep lifting free weights?
I have had my Bowflex home gym for several years and still get a ton of use out of it. This great piece of home gym equipment allows you to perform simple yet effective workouts at home and keep up the intensity when you can’t get to the commercial gym or don’t have a gym membership (or don’t want to go).
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line home gym, the Bowflex Blaze is probably your best bet to get your heart rate and blood pumping. But if you want something that still offers enough resistance training with the power rod technology and plenty of features, and can be customized to fit your specific full-body workout needs for all your muscle groups, any of the other Bowflex machines on our list, such as the Bowflex Xtreme 2SE, Bowflex PR3000, or Bowflex Revolution, would make an excellent choice to get your heart rate up and your sweat flowing.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference – so which Bowflex home gym is your favorite?
I recently made a YouTube video reviewing 6 of the models on the market right now (including all five from this article).
If you get a second, check it out.
Thanks for reading this article reviewing and ranking 6 of the best Bowflex on the market.
If you enjoyed this article, you might also enjoy:
- Want A Six Pack? 7 Best Ab Workout Exercises You Need To Know
- 7 Bowflex Accessories You Need For Your Home Gym
Rob is a Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Nutrition Coach through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. For the past 10 years, Rob has been navigating the health and fitness landscape in a quest to better himself and those around him focusing on tools such as calorie and macro counting, intermittent fasting, and HIIT training techniques.
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