Bowflex Xtreme SE Home Gym

I was looking and researching for a home gym product like Bowflex for a while. This model is the best product I could find that fits my requirements, space (you will need at least 74 x 81 x 92 inches (W x H x D) of working area) and budget. I ordered it from Amazon new for a much cheaper price than it is priced on many other sites. The product was delivered on time with no issues, in one box (I expected a few :)) right into my home gym - free. I have had it for two weeks now - my family (14 years to 63 years old) and I LOVE this product.

Pros: The Bowflex SE has everything you need to get anyone in shape, and I mean it. All you need is time (~30 minutes per day) and eagerness to look and feel better.

Cons: Have to do some equipment adjustments in order to set different levels of difficulties and exercises. I would recommend watching the attached DVD once and you will be all set.

Recommendation: Buy it - you will enjoy it. Look for promotion codes as you may save some money.

Overall I think this is a really nice piece of equipment. I really like the flexibility of it. It can replicate almost any machine-based lift out there and a good number of free-weight lifts as well. There are a couple of drawbacks to the machine:

1. There is greater resistance at the end of the lift movement, rather than it being consistant througout.

2. It takes some practice to set everything up right. My workouts usually revolve around workout pairs, where I am quickly switching between two lifts. The bowflex does not lend itself to this type of program.

3. Something just doesn't feel quite "right" with the lat pull-down movement. I think the inconsistant resistance really is exggerated during this lift.

4. SOme freeweight exercises just can't be truly replicated on this machine.

That being said I think it was worth the price I paid for it. I also own the 552 dumbells and the 5.1 dumbell bench. I think having the dumbells compliments the Bowflex really well.

the Bowflex is relatively easy to set up. the directions are great. it does take a bit of time to set up correctly...however my husband did it in a short period of time (30 minutes)

The Work Out Steps are easy to understand and follow. I could stay on track easily from the beginning. Look forward to many years of excercise from this product.

This is a fantastic overall system. I have been using free weights for many years. I never thought I could get the type of workout from a machine but after only a few weeks you will see substantial results. You will be able to address every muscle group with only a few quick changes to the cables - Great overall workout in 30-45 minutes 3 days a week. I would highly recommend this for someone looking for a home gym.

From the first day I put this together, and played around doing a few reps... I feel it, this machine works you out and you do not realize it until the next day....My wife talked me into going with the Bowflex and I am glad she did. It is an awesome piece of equipment.