I have owned my Bowflex for about 2 years and figured it was a good time I wrote a review. I have the Bowflex Ultimate XTLU. Originally I ordered the overhead lat tower, but no t the leg attachment. I also upgraded to 410lbs vs. the standard 310 lbs.
Cost/Setup - On the topic of cost, it wasn't cheap. Compared to other systems it was comparable in the $2000 dollar range with the options I selected. You are paying for the name and the quality. If I had to do it over again I think I would purchase a used model. They age well and the depreciation is a killer if you decide you don't like it. The setup was straight forward. I did it with the help of my 9 year old son and I believe he might have been able to do it by himself. Everything was clearly marked and if followed, the instructions were clear and straight forward. It is a large piece of equipment, especially with the lat tower. You need to have a large area to store and use this product, mine is in an open area in the basement.
Exercise and instructions - The instructional information provided regarding the use of the equipment was well done. The exercises were explained and demonstrated in a simple and easy to understand manner. It also was complete in it also provided diet and lifestyle information to supplement the exercise routines. The manual contained several routines depending on your experience level and were complete body work-outs, you could also easily design your own workout from the available exercise. The exercise description contained information on which muscles or muscle groups were being addressed and I used this early on to find similar exercises to work the leg muscles that I could not address because I did not have the leg attachment.
Optional accessories - Even in retrospect I would have to recommend that if you can only afford a single attachment go with the lat tower instead of the leg attachment. I bought the leg attachment after the fact on EBay. I had been doing alternate leg exercises up to that point and honestly it is just in the way and requires a cable change to use. To add to that is has a some what limited list of exercises.
Maintenance - Maintenance has been very simple. I wipe it down occasionally with a damp cloth, mostly to remove dust since I keep it in the basement. Once every other month I use some WD-40 on the pulleys to keep the loose and reduce squeaking. Other than that it has been maintenance free and has worked with out problems three times a week for right at two years.
Overall I give the Bowflex line a positive review for convenience, durability, and flexibility. A final reminder, before starting any diet or exercise program consult with your physician to determine what is right for you. Good luck and good health.
Simon Volk has been a contributing author for websites and is an acknowledged expert in the field of health and fitness. He can be found on the internet at the website:
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