Bowflex Xceed Plus Home Gym with Gym Style Ab Attachment

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Get serious about your strength training at home with the Bowflex Xceed home gym, which includes a lat tower, squat station, leg attachment and adjustable pulley system for over 65 gym-quality exercises. It comes standard with 310 pounds of real Power Rod resistance. The integrated lat tower with angled lat bar helps to build back and shoulder muscles quickly. The upper and lower pulley/squat station enables you to do squats and build your gluts, hamstrings and quads. The Xceed also has multiple cable/pulley positions for custom workouts.

With the included abs attachment, you'll be able to perform ab crunch exercises like in the gym. Advanced engineering allows you to get great results fast by specifically targeting abdominal and core muscles, and it also works great for lower back extension exercises. A locking mechanism allows easy in, easy out access, and a foam chest pad provides large, comfortable area to push on.

The leg extension/leg curl attachment rivals specialized leg equipment found in gyms, and will help you develop strong, muscular legs. Efficient and easy to use, the leg attachment connects easily, and can be removed in seconds for using the squat station.

The Xceed Plus utilizes Bowflex's patented Power Rods, which provide resistance, or weight, that feels as good as or better than free weights--but without the inertia or risk of joint pain usually associated with free weights.

The Xceed utilizes Bowflex's patented Power Rods, which provide resistance, or weight, that feels as good as or better than free weights--but without the inertia or risk of joint pain usually associated with free weights. You can hook one, two, three, four or all of your Power Rod units to the cable pulley system and go from as little as 5 pounds all the way up to 310 pounds of resistance.

They're precisely manufactured from a high-tech composite material under the highest quality control measures, then sheathed and tested 4 separate times to ensure quality and durability. The Power Rod units are so strong, you can flex them repeatedly but you won't be able to wear them out. In fact, they're so strong, Bowflex backs them with its No-Time-Limit Warranty free replacement offer.

Feature Detail:

• Gym-style vertical workout position
• Adjustable, quick release seat with Polyurethane cushion
• Reinforced "X"-shaped base for maximum stability
• Compact size for smaller workout spaces
• Triple function hand-grip/ankle cuffs
• Workout area: 7 by 6 feet
• Dimensions: 82.7 by 55.1 by 51.2 inches (HxLxW)
• High density padding with vinyl cover
• Powder-coated heavy-duty steel frame

Manufacturer's Warranty
7-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship

About Home Gyms
While offering the convenience of working out in the comfort and privacy of your own home, home gyms also allow you to focus on specific routines without having to wait in line or switch between a complex array of machines. In addition to improving strength, power, coordination, and muscular endurance, weight training can enhance weight reduction, enhance the immune and cardiovascular systems, and help prevent injuries. In general, home gym machines are compact units designed to strengthen and exercise many parts of the body. While no single home gym can provide a complete strength training solution, they are a convenient way to combine many exercises into a single unit. Some home gyms focus exclusively on upper-body workouts, while other, more advanced units focus on upper- and lower-body conditioning.

List Price: $1,599.00

Amazon Price: $799.00

Customer Review: Pleased with EXCEED

pleased with the Xceed Plus Bowflex. The only problem was with the cables hanging up when using the Lat Bar when assembled as instructed. After reversing the Pully arms everything works very well. At first the tension didn't seem to be as indicated on the rods, but after using the system for a couple of weeks and understanding that the bowflex power rod system is progressive I believe the indicated tension levels may be achieved at the point that the rods are fully arched.

Customer Review: great

I got it in 5 days from ordering it. that was awesome thanks Amazon. it was easy to put together about an hour or so. i have had it only a few days but so far i love it. once you get a routine. it is easy to use and the cables are easy to move around. for the money it is a very good buy. im glad i bought this one and not the blaze or one like that. its still big so you will need a good sized room.

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Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym (Refurbished by Nautilus)

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Looking for a total body workout but you're on a budget? The refurbished Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE offers a compact total-body workout solution that allows you to perform over 70 exercises. It includes a Lat Tower that adjusts to two positions, leg extension for developing strong, muscular legs, an abdominal crunch shoulder harness to help you build strong, defined abs, and a 4-position lower pulley/squat station that helps in building your glutes, hamstrings, and quads. Other features include 210 pounds of Power Rod resistance, a no-change cable pulley system, an ergonomic adjustable seat with polyurethane cushion, and 5-way hand grip/ankle cuffs. This refurbished model of the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE is backed by a full 6-month warranty.

The Xtreme 2 SE utilizes Bowflex's patented Power Rods, which provide resistance, or weight, that feels as good as or better than free weights--but without the inertia or risk of joint pain usually associated with free weights. You can hook one, two, three, four or all of your Power Rod units to the cable pulley system and go from as little as 5 pounds all the way up to 210 pounds of resistance (can be upgraded to 410 pounds). They're precisely manufactured from a high-tech composite material under the highest quality control measures, then sheathed and tested 4 separate times to ensure quality and durability. The Power Rod units are so strong, you can flex them repeatedly but you won't be able to wear them out.

Specifications:

• Number of exercises: 70+
• Weight resistance: 210 pounds (can be upgraded to 410 pounds)
• Leg attachment: Included
• Lat tower attachment: Included
• Aerobic rowing: No
• Squat station: Included
• Preacher curl attachment: No
• Ab crunch accessory: Shoulder harness only
• Adjustable main pulley system: Included (4-position adjustable pulleys)
• No-change cable pulley system: Included
• Dimensions: 83 x 58 x 49 inches (HxLxW)
• Workout area: 8' x 6' 5"
• Maximum user weight: 300 pounds

Manufacturer's Warranty
This model of the Bowflex Revolution XP Home Gym has been refurbished to factory standards and is backed by a full 6-month warranty.

Exercises
The Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE home gym allows you to perform over 70 gym-quality exercises including:

Arm Exercises Triceps Pushdown w/ Hand Grips Triceps Hammer Pushdown Triceps Pushdown w/ Lat Pulldown Bar Single Arm Pushdown Triceps Extension Cross Triceps Extension Hammer Triceps Extension "Rope" Pushdowns Seated Biceps Curl Standing Biceps Curl Concentration Biceps Curl Hammer Biceps Curl Barbell Biceps Curl Reverse Barbell Biceps Curl Seated Hammer Biceps Curl Reverse Curl Triceps Kickback Hammer Triceps Kickback Arm Opposition Push-pull Upper Body Opposition Push-pull Wrist Extension Wrist Curl Resisted Dip

Shoulder Exercises Crossover Rear Delt Rows Crossover High Rear Delt Rows Reverse Fly Crossover Reverse Fly Seated Shoulder Press Front Shoulder Raise Shoulder Extension Shoulder Shrug Scapular Protraction Scapular Depression Lateral Shoulder Raise Seated Forearm Lateral Shoulder Raise Shoulder Rotator Cuff (internal) Shoulder Rotator Cuff (external) Crossover Seated Rear Delt Rows Scapular Retraction Leg Exercises Leg Extension Squat Calf Raise Single Leg Calf Raise Standing Hip Extension (knee bent) Standing Hip Extension (knee extended) Standing Hip Abduction Standing Hip Adduction Leg Kickback Hip Flexion Dead Lift Stiff Leg Dead Lift

Back Exercises Standing Low Back Extension Bent Rear Delt Row Crossover Bent Rear Delt Row Seated Wide Lat Pulldowns Narrow Pulldowns w/ Lat Pulldown Bar Narrow Pulldowns w/ Hand Grips Reverse Grip Pulldowns Crossover Wide Pulldowns Crossover Narrow Pulldowns Pulldowns Stiff Arm Pulldowns Standing Shoulder Pullover w/ Hand Grips Crossover Seated Lat Rows Seated Lat Rows Reverse Grip Pulldown with Lat Bar Abdominal Exercises Seated (resisted) Abdominal Crunch Seated (resisted) Oblique Abdominal Crunch Trunk Rotation Chest Exercises Bench Press Chest Fly Decline Bench Press Incline Bench Press Decline Chest Fly Incline Chest Fly

List Price: $1,599.00

Amazon Price: $1,299.99

Used Price: $2,000.00

Customer Review: Excellent deal, quick shipping

I purchased the refurbished model of the Xtreme 2 SE. Other than that some items remained assembled (which helped in assembly) it appeared unused and new. It shipped within 3 working days and arrived in 12 days from time of order. It arrived on a pallet and the boxes were damaged, but was packed well enough internally that the forklift damage didn't affect the components and all parts and pieces remained inside the opened boxes.

It was very easy to assemble. I opened all the packages, took inventory to ensure I had all the parts, including bolts and screws and gathered tools. The only item not included was an allen wrench that was to be used on the majority of the "button head" bolts. Fortunately, I had one in the tool box. Assembly instructions were in clear, concise American English, with adequate assembly diagrams. From delivery, hauling the items upstates, unboxing, removing packing materials to curbside, inventory, tool search and assembly to first test run was 3 unrushed hours.

I have used it for several days and find that it will serve its desired purpose to help me maintain muscle tone and general health. I have used free weights extensively in the past and the resistance system is different, but I can see that for working out solo and for general fitness it will be ideal and you are going to have to work to injure yourself, unlike free weights.

The "No Change Pulley System" is a joy to use. No having to switch cables to work out. You do need to plan your workouts to keep from switching attachments, but with the right planning, it is very easy to get a workout with minimal adjustment/change time between exercises. It is quicker than a free weight system, unless you have free run of a gym with each station set up for each particular exercise, set with your particular weights. The resistance bars are easy to change and quick to adjust.

Small footprint, but you will also need a spot to store attachments. I purchased an upgrade to 310 lbs and inserted them when assembling. I recommend that you do that also as you would have to do some disassembly if you install them after the intial assembly and if you search the web, you can find discount coupons to save 10-20% of the $99 asking price. I also purchased the Easy Curl bar at the same time (not required, but I am glad I got it). The system does come with a strap to retain the resistance bars when not in use.

I am very pleased with the purchase and as only time will tell how it will hold up, it appears to be a solid, well built machine that has all of the items that I will need to maintain general fitness and allow the wife to do the same.

I highly recommend the refurbished Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE

Customer Review: Boeflex Xtreme2 Home Gym

We purchase the refurbished model by Nautilis. Note that Bowflex is made by Nautilis. The refurbished gym we bought looked brand spanking new. I primarily got this for the family since they don't like weight-lifting in our unheated garage in the winter. Postive aspects of the gym are;
1) fits a small space in the house.
2) easy to assemble and only took a couple hours.
3) has a wealth of different exercises.
4) very good machine for most kids and women.
5) operates smoothly and thus far appears to be pretty stout.
6) easy to switch apparatus when changing the exercise.
7) beats having to pay gym fees for a family when you pencil it out. This assumes you have plenty of outside areas to get cardiovascular exercise in.

Downside of the gym;
1) For those in good shape and/or lift a lot of weight your going to find the exercises are very easy. I'm just guessing but the bench press at 210 lbs on the machine feels like about 130-140 lbs for free weights. So we intend to upgrade with another 100 lbs for the machine which will add a little to the final cost.
2) For smaller kids, less than about 5 ft, some of the basic exercises won't provide a full range of motion (e.g. overhead press). We solved that by placing a 8 inch piece of wood on the seat when out youngest is using the gym.
3) We didn't like doing squats with the machine, all prefered using our squat rack and free weights.

Overall - Nice system despite some of the drawbacks. The machine has and will get much use in our house.

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Bowflex Xtreme SE Home Gym (Refurbished by Nautilus)

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Whether you're tired of investing in a monthly gym membership or you just like the convenience of working out in the home, the Bowflex Xtreme SE home gym is a must-have for serious workout enthusiasts. The Xtreme SE lets you perform more than 65 gym-quality exercises, including exercises for the chest, shoulder, back, arms, abdominals, and legs--in short, everything you need to improve strength, tone, or bulk up. Resistance derives from the 210 pounds of Power Rod units, which feel as good or better than free weights but without the latter's inertia or risk of joint pain. If that's not enough resistance, you can also upgrade the Xtreme SE to 310 or 410 pounds.

The Xtreme SE is outfitted with a number of workout stations, including a lat tower with an angled lat bar for building back and shoulder muscles; an abdominal crunch shoulder harness; a three-position lower pulley/squat station for building your glutes, hamstrings, and quads; and a leg extension/curl attachment. And dedicated lifters will dig the adjustable cable and pulley system, which lets you change your resistance angle to target exercises more efficiently to certain muscle groups. Other details include five-way handgrip and ankle cuffs, an ergonomic adjustable seat with a polyurethane cushion, and a reinforced X-shaped base for maximum stability. The Xtreme SE measures 49 by 81 by 62 inches (W x H x D).

The Xtreme SE offers an ergonomic adjustable seat with a polyurethane cushion for added back support while exercising.

Key Features:

• 210 pounds of Power Rod Resistance offers the benefits of free weights without the inertia or risk of joint pain; can be upgraded up to 310 pounds / 140 kg or 410 pounds / 186 kg
• Lat tower with Angled Lat Bar for building back and shoulder muscles quickly
• Abdominal Crunch Shoulder Harness help build strong, defined abs
• 3-Position Lower pulley/squat station to build your glutes, hamstrings, and quads
• Leg extension/leg curl attachment will help develop strong, muscular legs.
• Ergonomic adjustable seat with polyurethane cushion provides added back support for leg exercises and knee support for lat exercises
• Compact size for smaller workout space; reinforced "X"-shaped base for maximum stability
• Five-way hand-grip/ankle cuffs are designed to add flexibility and performance to any workout; functions include a regular grip, non-grip cuff, ankle cuff, foot cuff, and a shoulder cuff
• Multiple cable/pulley positions are designed to change your angle of resistance and increase the effectiveness of many exercises
• Owner's manual/fitness guide comes complete with detailed instructions for each exercise

Specifications:

• Exercises Available: 60+
• Standard Weight Resistance: 210 pounds / 95 kg
• Attachments and Accessories: Leg Attachment, Lat Tower, Squat Station, Ab Crunch Accessory, Shoulder Harness
• Adjustable Main Pulley System: Built-in (4-position adjustable pulleys)
• Machine Height: 6' 11" (211 cm)
• Machine Length: 5' 2" (158 cm)
• Machine Width: 4' 1" (125 cm)

Manufacturer's Warranty
Six-month warranty

About Home Gyms
While offering the convenience of working out in the comfort and privacy of your own home, home gyms also allow you to focus on specific routines without having to wait in line or switch between a complex array of machines. In addition to improving strength, power, coordination, and muscular endurance, weight training can enhance weight reduction, enhance the immune and cardiovascular systems, and help prevent injuries. In general, home gym machines are compact units designed to strengthen and exercise many parts of the body. While no single home gym can provide a complete strength training solution, they are a convenient way to combine many exercises into a single unit. Some home gyms focus exclusively on upper-body workouts, while other, more advanced units focus on upper- and lower-body conditioning.

List Price: $1,299.00

Amazon Price: $909.99

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Bowflex Xtreme 2 Home Gym

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The Bowflex Xtreme 2 Home Gym allows you to work out at home with more than 70 different exercises to work a wide range of muscles. The Xtreme 2 lets you change exercises more quickly and easily with no cable changes needed between exercises. The Lat Tower adjusts to two positions and offers an angled lat bar, helping to build back and shoulder muscles quickly. The four-position adjustable lower pulleys provide a longer squat time, great for building up your glutes, hamstrings and quads.

The Xtreme 2 comes with 210 pounds of Bowflex Power Rod resistance, and it can be upgraded with optional add-ons for resistance up to 310 or 410 pounds. Other features include an adjustable, quick-release seat with polyurethane cushion, contoured, extra wide seat back for added stability and support during lat exercises, reinforced "X"-shaped base for maximum stability, triple function hand-grip/ankle cuffs, and multiple cable/pulley positions for custom workouts. It comes with a printed fitness guide and operating/installation instructions. It's backed by a 7-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship.

• Height: 6 feet, 11 inches
• Length: 4 feet, 8 inches
• Width: 4 feet, 2 inches
• Workout Area: 7 x 6 foot

About Home Gyms
While offering the convenience of working out in the comfort and privacy of your own home, home gyms also allow you to focus on specific routines without having to wait in line or switch between a complex array of machines. In addition to improving strength, power, coordination, and muscular endurance, weight training can enhance weight reduction, enhance the immune and cardiovascular systems, and help prevent injuries. In general, home gym machines are compact units designed to strengthen and exercise many parts of the body. While no single home gym can provide a complete strength training solution, they are a convenient way to combine many exercises into a single unit. Some home gyms focus exclusively on upper-body workouts, while other, more advanced units focus on upper- and lower-body conditioning.

List Price: $1,699.00

Used Price: $850.00

Customer Review: Had it for a month and love it!

Great quality and design! Alittle different than free weights but as you adjust to the difference you get very effective workouts.

Customer Review: Great Home Gym!!! Highly Recommended!

I love it! It fit great into our 3rd bedroom with tons of room to spare. The instructions were easy to follow and the machine was simple to disassemble and reassemble for moving into different areas of the house when needed. Great machine - great workout guide provided also. Worth the money!

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Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym

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No Ratings

All New Product
We took the Xtreme and improved it. The Lat Tower adjusts to two positions, plus the longer squat frame gives you 4 adjustable positions. In addition, the Xtreme 2 lets you change exercises more quickly and easily with no cable changes needed between exercises. These features let you perform over 70 exercises.

Now includes ab crunch shoulder harness and ergonomically designed adjustable seat.

Used Price: $1,500.00

Customer Review: Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym

I have seen those Bowflex infomercials for 20 years now and was the first to say "Yeah right". I believed there was no way it can be as easy as they say it was. I couldn't be MORE wrong. I've owned the Bowflex for 1 month now and cannot believe how easy, fun and fast results have happened. Its simply AMAZING! I love it!

Let me start with the quality. As I was putting it together I was shocked at how well its built. Very study, heavy duty. No cheesy parts.

Second, the DVD that came with it explained everything to me on how each exercise should be preformed safely and to get the best results.

Third, it tells you that you have to commit to a complete healthy life style. You can workout on it as much as you want but if you don't eat right, your NOT going to see the results your looking for.
So, I did just what they told me too.... 1 month, dropped 13 pounds. I can actually SEE the results too! Pants are not staying up, shirts are not as tight and I feel GREAT! Its SO easy if you commit and now that I am actually seeing and feeling the results I am excited to see what happens at the end of 2 months, 4 months, 6 months.

If you have joint problems like I do, this machine is awesome. I struggled with free weights. My joints would ache while working out. With the Bowflex... NOT ONE ISSIUE!

If you're tired of looking like a marshmallow and feeling like a piece of balsa wood, I strongly recommend the Bowflex. It WORKS! Worth every penny I spent on it.

If I had to say anything negative it would be this. It took me about 5 hours to put together but I was able to do it by myself. It wasn't that it was hard or confusing to put together, just took a little while. Still, I am PRO Bowflex. Love it, Love it, LOVE IT!

Customer Review: I am getting stronger but it's taking longer then 6 weeks..

I use it three times a week along with weights... I like the simplicity when going from one exercise set to another... I have already ordered the 310 upgrade and will most likely need to 410 upgrade soon...

Works great when integrating it with normal weight lifting...

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Bowflex Conquest Home Gym

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Bring the power of Bowflex to your home gym with the Conquest Home Gym, which provides a gym-quality workout in the comfort and safety of your own home. It offers 210 pounds of Bowflex Power Rod resistance technology and more than 65 exercises to get your body in shape. This machine can fit in the corner of your home, garage, or even small apartment or condo. You can hook one, two, three, four or all of your Power Rod units to the cable pulley system and go from as little as 5 pounds all the way up to 210 pounds of resistance. Great for all fitness levels, this versatile machine helps work the back, shoulders, triceps, lats, chest, abs, glutes, hamstrings, quads, and more. It offers the following exercise options:

• Base platform
• Lower pulley/squat station
• Lat station
• Lat bar
• Leg curl/extension station

The sliding seat allows for aerobic rowing while a Bowflex equipment mat is included for stability and floor protection. The Conquest folds up and rolls on wheels for convenient storage.

Bowflex's patented Power Rods provide resistance, or weight, that feels as good as or better than free weights--but without the inertia or risk of joint pain usually associated with free weights. You can hook one, two, three, four or all of your Power Rod units to the cable pulley system and go from as little as 5 pounds all the way up to 210 pounds of resistance.

They're precisely manufactured from a high-tech composite material under the highest quality control measures, then sheathed and tested four separate times to ensure quality and durability. The Power Rod units are so strong, you can flex them repeatedly but you won't be able to wear them out. In fact, they're so strong, they're backed by a lifetime warranty.

Specifications:

• Weight resistance: 210 pounds
• Number of exercises: 65
• Open dimensions: 40 inches wide by 76 inches long by 84 inches tall
• Folded dimensions: 40 inches wide by 40 inches long by 84 inches tall
• Maximum user weight capacity: 300 pounds

Manufacturer's Warranty
Three-year warranty on machine; lifetime warranty on Power Rods

What's in the Box?
Bowflex Conquest home gym unit, instructional video, equipment mat, and t-bar

About Home Gyms
While offering the convenience of working out in the comfort and privacy of your own home, home gyms also allow you to focus on specific routines without having to wait in line or switch between a complex array of machines. In addition to improving strength, power, coordination, and muscular endurance, weight training can enhance weight reduction, enhance the immune and cardiovascular systems, and help prevent injuries. In general, home gym machines are compact units designed to strengthen and exercise many parts of the body. While no single home gym can provide a complete strength training solution, they are a convenient way to combine many exercises into a single unit. Some home gyms focus exclusively on upper-body workouts, while other, more advanced units focus on upper- and lower-body conditioning.

List Price: $899.99

Used Price: $600.00

Customer Review: Very Pleased

My Wife and I, both in our 60s, have been using a resistance band machine for many years and found it to be basically adequate. The manufacturer no longer supports that machine and we eventually ran out of bands requiring us to replace it. We're sorry now that we didn't replace it with a BowFlex sooner. The Conquest is perfect for our purposes of generally toning and conditioning. It is easily adjustable, providing a wide range of motion and resistance. The book and video provided with the machine are extremely helpful and the set-up instructions accurate and easy to follow. We assembled and set up the machine in a matter of a few minutes. We can recommend this machine without reservation.

Customer Review: Very pleased

The Bowflex Body Plan
By Ellington Darden, PhD
(Rodale Inc., 2004)
And Bowflex Conquest
reviews

After purchasing both the Bowflex Conquest unit and The Bowflex Body Plan, it became obvious that one could not be reviewed without the other. Although cross-references will be made in each review, I will do my best to keep the reviews separate.

Preface. If you are considering purchasing exercise programs or equipment (such as p90X, the Total Gym, Vigro Fit, treadmills, bar bells, elliptical machines, etc.), as did I, please consider your goals. My wife, who suffers arthritis in her hands and decreasing bone density, wanted something that would help her in both categories. I believe everyone understands that stronger muscles increase bone density which helps persons with arthritis. For myself, I wanted an alternative exercise to a nightly cardio, stretch and limited resistance workout on my Nautilus NordicTrack CX 1055 (which is a very good and useful elliptical machine); as one who is trying to be liberated from impaired glucose tolerance (pre diabetic), it is necessary for me to exercise a minimum of 30-60 minutes a day. The information I was reading about resistance or strength training suggested that my cardio workout could be reduced if I increased my muscle mass (which continues to "work" the physiology of my system, even when I am resting). In addition, I wanted stronger lower back muscles (my family has an unwanted tradition of pain in that part of our bodies).

With these factors in mind, I ordered the literature and free DVD from Bowflex. The testimonials and information were very encouraging, but I was unwilling to spend a bunch of money on a Bowflex. Besides, the size of the units created space problems, because we had no room for a piece of equipment as large as a Bowflex.

Book Review: The Bowflex Body Plan.. One weekend while I was visiting a used bookstore in Texas, I stumbled onto Ellington Darden's book, The Bowflex Body program. After flipping through the pages, I decided it was worth a try, so I bought it. This turned out to be a pivotal event.

Darden has been a body builder and body trainer for over 40 years. He holds a PhD, likes to investigate things and learn about new disciplines. He has also written lots of books on body building. He is a pretty good writer, which helps us readers.

One of the surprises in the book relates to his knowledge of nutrition: he has taken post-graduate courses in the topic, and studied the principles of Understanding Nutrition (a thick, heavy, lengthy book, used in colleges and universities). As I read more in his book, it was obvious that Darden knew more about nutrition than most, and although he is not at the level of Marion Nestle or Eleanor Noss Whitney, nor does his program touch on "hot" topics such as carbohydrate reduction diets or mineral additives, his weight loss and body building programs take into account some fundamentals of nutrition.

In short, Darden appeared to be a learned man, who was willing to admit he was wrong. In the book, he points out erroneous perspectives he had formulated (including taking the wrong or unnecessary dietary supplements, over exercising, etc.), and explains why his beliefs were out of kilter.

The book has lots of materials, ranging from the science of dieting (for example, diets won't work without exercise - although this fact ought to be obvious, Darden explains why one doesn't work without the other), to specific dieting programs, to the science of strength training programs (frequency of exercises, meaning, no less than 20 minutes nor more than 30 per session, no more than 3 sessions a week so your muscles can recover and rebuild, no less than 8 repetitions nor more than 12 per session, using short pauses between exercises - i.e., circuit training, etc.). He concludes with the observation that all exercise regimens (stretching, cardio and resistance) can be accomplished by using a Bowflex machine.

Although the principles of strength training are Bowflex oriented in this book, they could be adapted to any resistance training program and produce the same results. Even if you do not own or purchase a Bowflex, you can use the principles.

Much of the book is devoted to helping people lose weight, which was not one of my objectives. Apparently people want to lose weight when they buy exercise equipment. If one factors in Michael Pollen's observation in The Omnivore's Dilemma, that a third of our population is overweight, and according to Darden, between ages 30 and 50, we lose 15 pounds of muscle mass, the handwriting on the wall is obvious: we cannot expect to have healthy bodies if we do not eat properly and exercise.

The book contains so many Bowflex exercise routines, that over the course of time, I will have no problem adapting what I now do with my Bowflex unit, and adding other exercises for specific needs. As an aid to a novice, there are dozens of photographs of how exercises are to be done (including some which do not require a Bowflex unit).

Comparing this work to others I have read on the topics of exercise, strength training, cardio and stretching, I learned more about all of those subjects in less time than all of the other materials and resources. His dietary program, however, is not what as healthy as it might be (but his purpose is to formulate a diet that can lead to weight loss of up to 60 pounds in 6 weeks - not to detoxify a system).

If I had not purchased this book, we would not have purchased a Bowflex. I don't think any novice Bowflex user should purchase a Bowflex without first reading this book.

Bowflex Conquest Review. By the time I finished the book, I was pretty excited about the Bowflex equipment. The units I had seen at Sears and some sporting goods stores were so large that I was discouraged, because we only had one room where we could keep the equipment, and the unit had to be moved to the middle of the room to be used. The one positive thing we learned as we visited these stores was that the units had wheels, and it appeared the units could be moved into a corner in a folded position (there are a couple of Bowflex units that don't have wheels and can't be moved, but I wasn't interested in those; one of them did not have a rowing bench and the other was out of our budget constraints).

I called the Bowflex toll free number on several occasions, and learned quite a bit of information about the difference in the units (they could not tell me anything about the Conquest, however, since it is not available through the direct telephone purchase program). The folded footprint size of the direct purchase units deterred me from considering but one or two, both of which were more expensive than the Conquest unit (which is sold through Amazon.com).

After moving some furniture around, we determined we could squeeze the Conquest into a corner space, and hopefully, the unit would be easy to move to the middle of the room (it was). Since it weighs close to 200 pounds and is close to 7' high, I had some reservations, which were misplaced, by ordering it sight unseen.

So we bought the Conquest, because of its relatively small footprint and its price. It arrived in 4 boxes (most of the boxes weighed about 70 pounds), and fortunately, the instructions were pretty easy to follow. It took about 3 hours to assemble (one hour was spent trying to find an adapter for my electric drill; the Allen wrenches furnished with unit took too much time to use, in my opinion). Once we got it together, we rolled it into the corner, and spent the rest of the evening reading the manual and watching the DVD that came with the product. The DVD instructed us on proper body positioning during the exercises, how to adjust the power rods, and was a very useful training aid.

The manual contains lots of information on the exercises which are designed for this unit, has many photographs, some anatomy diagrams relating to the muscle system, and has a diet and exercise program (all of which are written by Ellington Darden). Using the manual, plus information gleaned from The Bowflex Body Plan, we embarked on the 6 week program.

Since weight loss was not one of my primary objectives, I did not drink a gallon of cold water every day, or follow the prescribed diet. My wife followed some of these recommendations, however, and lost a couple of pounds.

At the end of 6 weeks, we had each lost about 4 pounds of body fat (which is fairly close to normal, according to Darden); my overall weight was about the same. In that time period I gained an inch in size in each arm, and my abs were visibly improved (they were in pretty good shape when I began the program, but the difference is very apparent).

The drawbacks to the Conquest relate to features which are not available on this unit: the lower pulley bar has only one setting (the more expensive units have more), which means, some of the exercises from The Bowflex Body Plan are not entirely adaptable to the Conquest. In addition, there are other pieces of available equipment (as separate purchases, in most instances) that cannot be used on the Conquest (e.g., ones that are to be used for certain leg exercises). For our purposes, however, I have no regrets.

The basic six week program is designed to increase the number of exercises performed over the six week time period. By week 7 we had increased the number of exercises to 12. We always warm up by rowing, and are able to finish all 12 exercises within the allotted 30 minute time period. About every 2 weeks we increase the weight resistance, and the sessions have proven to be more difficult and more strenuous. However, the results are rewarding.

I was surprised to learn that my wife's carpal tunnel pains had abated over the course of time, and that we both decreased our body fat. Since muscles weigh more than fat, I regret that I did not follow the diet. I wanted my weight to stay about the same, but after week 6, it has inched its way upward, because of the weight of my "new" muscles. Presently, I am using some of the dietary techniques with moderate success, so as to return to what I regard as normal weight.

One of the Bowflex salesmen I visited on the phone with mentioned that his grandmother had been using a unit similar to ours for many years. This was a comforting thought, because I know we need look no further for a unit with more features. The Conquest meets our needs and is accomplishing our objectives.

We are very pleased with our Bowflex.

Conclusion. Both the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association now recommend resistance training as part of our daily regimen, in addition to cardio exercises. I will give you the hotlink to their site shortly, but the bottom line is this: we are an obese nation, and are somewhat indolent. Exercise puts us in better physical shape, and with a proper diet, exercise can help us to stay healthy. The Bowflex program helps accomplish these goals, and should certainly be considered.

(http://www.acsm.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home_Page&TEMPLATE=/CM/HTMLDisplay.cfm&CONTENTID=7764)

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Bowflex Ultimate XTLU Home Gym

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Get serious about your strength training at home with the Bowflex Ultimate XTLU home gym, which includes everything you need to keep fit and build up muscles in your own home. It comes standard with 310 pounds of real Power Rod resistance (which can be upgraded to 410 pounds with optional additional Power Rods). The Ultimate includes a lat tower with an angled bar to help you build back and shoulder muscles, a low pulley/squat station for building glutes, hamstrings, and quads, and a leg extension/curl station for developing muscular legs. The adjustable pulley system is designed to change your angle of resistance to help increase the effectiveness of many upper body exercises. It also offers a smooth, built-in rowing machine. When you're done with the workout, the Ultimate folds down and can be rolled away via its integrated wheels.

The Ultimate utilizes Bowflex's patented Power Rods, which provide resistance, or weight, that feels as good as or better than free weights--but without the inertia or risk of joint pain usually associated with free weights. You can hook one, two, three, four or all of your Power Rod units to the cable pulley system and go from as little as 5 pounds all the way up to 310 pounds of resistance. The Rods are precisely manufactured from a high-tech composite material under the highest quality control measures, then sheathed and tested 4 separate times to ensure quality and durability. The Power Rod units are so strong, you can flex them repeatedly but you won't be able to wear them out. In fact, they're so strong, Bowflex backs them with its No-Time-Limit Warranty free replacement offer.

Specifications:

The Ultimate XTLU folds to 27 by 49 inches for easy storage.

• Standard Weight Resistance: 310 pounds / 140 kg
• Workout area: 7 by 9 feet
• Dimensions: 83 by 98 by 50 inches / 211 x 249 x 127 cm (H x L x W)
• Folded footprint: 27 by 49 inches / 69 x 125 cm
• Workout Area: 7 by 9 feet / 213 x 274 cm
• Maximum User Weight: 300 pounds / 136 kg
• High density padding with vinyl cover
• Powder-coated heavy-duty steel frame
• Exercises: 90+

Key Features:

• 310 pounds of Power Rod Resistance: Bowflex Power Rod units give you resistance, or weight, that feels as good as or better than free weights but without the inertia or risk of joint pain usually associated with free weights
• Lat Tower with Angled Lat Bar: Build back and shoulder muscles quickly with this integrated tower
• Built-In Rowing Machine: Ultra smooth built-in rowing machine for calorie-burning, cardiovascular warm-up and cool-down
• Leg extension/leg curl attachment: Use for exercises to develop strong, muscular legs.
• 5-Way Hand-Grip/Ankle Cuffs: Unique handgrip is designed to add flexibility and performance to any workout; functions include a regular grip, non-grip cuff, ankle cuff, foot cuff, and a shoulder cuff
• Built-in Adjustable Pulley System: Adjust the pulleys for challenging bench-press and chest-fly exercises
• T-Bar: Adds intensity to your rowing workout
• Leg-Press Belt: Perfect for leg press and seated hamstring curl exercises

Included Attachments and Accessories:

• Leg Attachment
• Lat Tower Attachment
• Aerobic Rower
• Squat Station
• Adjustable Main Pulley System

Exercises:

Bench Press Chest Fly Incline Bench Press Decline Bench Press Resisted Punch Lying Cable Crossover Flat Barbell Bench Press Seated Shoulder Press Front Shoulder Press Rear Deltoid Rows Standing Lateral Shoulder Raise Seated Lateral Shoulder Raise Scapular Protraction Scapular Depression Shoulder Rotator Cuff Internal Rotation Shoulder Rotator Cuff External Rotation Shoulder Extension Shoulder Shrug Barbell Shoulder Shrug Lying Front Shoulder Raise Reverse Fly Military Press Standing Rear Deltoid Row Standing Cable Cross Rear Deltoid Row Standing Shoulder Extension Standing Shoulder Internal Rotation Standing Shoulder External Rotation Lying Shoulder Pullover Wide Pulldowns Narrow Pulldowns

Lying Lat Pulldowns Lying Narrow Lat Pulldowns Low Back Extensions Seated Lat Rows Lying Lat Fly Reverse Grip Pulldowns Scapular Retraction Stiff Arm Pulldown Barbell Bent Over Row Standing Lat Row Alternating Motion Low Pulley Standing Single Arm Lat Row Low Pulley Standing Low Back Extension French Press Lying Triceps Extension Lying 45-Degree Tricep Extension Triceps Pushdown Rope Pushdowns Single-Arm Pushdown Cross Triceps Extension Triceps Kickback Seated Triceps Extension Standing Biceps Curl Seated Biceps Curl Seated Wrist Extension Standing Wrist Extension Seated Wrist Curl Standing Wrist Curl Reverse Curl Lying Biceps Curl

Reverse Grip Barbell Curls Barbell Curls Seated (resisted) Abdominal Crunch Seated (resisted) Oblique Crunch Reverse Crunch Resisted Reverse Crunch Trunk Rotation Abdominal Crunch Leg Extension Leg Curl The Squat Leg Press Lying (Prone) Leg Curl Standing Hip Extension Standing Hip Flexion Seated Leg Curl Lying Leg Extension Seated (straight Leg) Calf Raise Standing Leg Kickback Kneeling Leg Kickback Standing Hip Abduction Seated Hip Adduction Seated Hip Abduction Ankle Inversion Ankle Eversion Deadlift Stiff-Leg Deadlift Standing Hip Flexion Standing Hip Internal Rotation Standing Hip External Rotation

Manufacturer's Warranty
10-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship

About Home Gyms
While offering the convenience of working out in the comfort and privacy of your own home, home gyms also allow you to focus on specific routines without having to wait in line or switch between a complex array of machines. In addition to improving strength, power, coordination, and muscular endurance, weight training can enhance weight reduction, enhance the immune and cardiovascular systems, and help prevent injuries. In general, home gym machines are compact units designed to strengthen and exercise many parts of the body. While no single home gym can provide a complete strength training solution, they are a convenient way to combine many exercises into a single unit. Some home gyms focus exclusively on upper-body workouts, while other, more advanced units focus on upper- and lower-body conditioning.

List Price: $1,899.00

Used Price: $995.00

Customer Review: Bowflex

I purchased the Bowflex for my husband for a gift. We spent 31/2 hours putting it together. (not to hard if you have assistance). The exercises are easy and effective. Once you get the hang of which parts to connect to where, because there are many attatchments. Good product.

Customer Review: Excellent home gym

After doing a fair amount of research on home gym equipment, I settled on Bowflex. They appeared to have a good, versatile product and good customer service. Our Bowflex arrived in less than a week in six large boxes. Be prepared to spend some good quality time putting your home gym together. It is not difficult to assemble, just time consuming. (It took two of us 3 hours to put this model together and we both are mechanically inclined.) The final product feels very solid and sturdy.

Most importantly, we love our Bowflex. I am tiny (4'10"), my husband is not (6'1"), but we are able to work out together easily with this machine and both of us feel as though we get a great workout. I have lifted free weights for 20+ years and am very happy with the weightlifting workouts I am getting now. The system is very versatile, allowing for dozens of different exercises.

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Bowflex PR1000 Home Gym

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The Bowflex PR1000 home gym is a great way to strengthen your muscles and add a bit of cardio training to the mix with over 30 strength exercises and a built-in rowing station. With up to 210 pounds of Power Rod resistance, this versatile machine helps work the abs, arms, chest, back, shoulders, and lower body. It includes triple-function hand grips for lat pull-down, a horizontal bench press, and four-inch upholstered roller cushions for leg extension and leg curl exercises. The rowing machine rail also folds when you're done with your workout

The PR1000 utilizes Bowflex's patented Power Rods, which provide resistance, or weight, that feels as good as or better than free weights--but without the inertia or risk of joint pain usually associated with free weights. You can hook one, two, three, four or all of your Power Rod units to the cable pulley system and go from as little as 5 pounds all the way up to 210 pounds of resistance.

They're precisely manufactured from a high-tech composite material under the highest quality control measures, then sheathed and tested 4 separate times to ensure quality and durability. The Power Rod units are so strong, you can flex them repeatedly but you won't be able to wear them out.

Features and Specifications:

• Sliding Seat Rail adds aerobic rowing training for calorie-burning, cardiovascular warm-up and cool-down (also great for leg presses and seated leg extensions)
• Multi-use Hand-Grip/Ankle Cuffs designed to add flexibility and performance to any workout
• Workout Placard displays workout descriptions for easy reference while you're exercising
• Number of available exercises: 30+
• Height: 81 inches (205 cm)
• Length: 84 inches (213 cm)
• Width: 38 inches (97 cm)
• Minimum Workout Area: 100 by 78 inches (254 x 199 cm)
• Maximum User Weight: 300 pounds (136 kg)
• 210 pounds of Power Rod resistance
• Four-inch upholstered roller cushions for leg extension and leg curl
• Horizontal bench press
• Triple function hand grips for lat pull down
• Built-in cardio rowing machine
• Folds for easy storage

Exercises:

Bench Press Decline Bench Press Incline Bench Press Seated Shoulder Press Front Shoulder Raise Crossover Seated Rear Delt Rows Scapular Retraction Narrow Pulldowns Stiff-Arm Pulldowns

Seated Lat Rows Reverse Grip Pulldown Seated Low Back Extension Triceps Pushdown Triceps Extension Standing Biceps Curl Wrist Curl Seated (Resisted) Abdominal Crunch

Trunk Rotation Leg Extension Calf Raise Seated Hip Adduction Seated Hip Abduction Leg Kickback Leg Press

Manufacturer's Warranty
Frame - one year; Rods - five years; Parts - 60 days

List Price: $799.00

Amazon Price: $599.99

Customer Review: Bowflex 1000 Home Gym

I absolutely love this item. I lost 7 pounds in the first five days and after almost one month the only times I cheated was when I worked out on my "off days."

Assembly was quick and easy. I was done in about an hour and a half and was and remain more than satisfied with the quality of this machine. I am very impressed with the it's design and engineering.

The bad news is I broke a rod on my first rep of my first exercise. That didn't bother me too much as it was fairly easy to use the machine without one rod. Also, the service department was quick to respond.

The only other drawback is that there is not enough weight to work the legs. However, I imagine it won't be too difficult to get a rod pack offering more resistance.

Bottom line is the drawbacks of this machine are minor and are vastly outweighed by the numerous advantages. I have combined the Bowflex workout with a daily walk, improved diet and hydration and have seen quick and dramatic results.

Customer Review: bowflex 1000

Spend the extra money and get the 3000 model or better. It's a real chore changing the cables around for each excersize.

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Powerline PHYP200X 45 Degree Hyperextension Bench

Overall Rating

No Ratings

The PowerLine 45 Hyperextension is a combination inverted back extension and oblique flexor set at an exact 45 angle for ultimate conditioning. Strengthen your lower back safely and comfortably on the strongest 45 Hyper available. This combination Inverted Back Extension and Oblique Flexor is set to an exact 45 angle for optimum conditioning. Telescoping midsection pads adjust to all size users and feature thick, double stitched pads for comfort and support. Over-sized 8" foam rollers hold you securely in place. Fully adjustable 4" thick midsection pads provide maximum comfort for all size users. Because of the size and weight of this item it will be shipped directly to you from the manufacturer, please allow 2 weeks for delivery.

• Relieves lower back pain.
• Fights compression fatigue.
• Increases flexibility.
• Improves circulation.
• Strengthens Back and Abdominal Muscles.
• Assembled Dimensions: 33"H x 42"L x 26"W
• Warranty: POWERLINE Ten Year Warranty

List Price: $275.00

Amazon Price: $209.00

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Bowflex Xtreme XTLU Home Gym

Overall Rating

No Ratings

Get serious about your strength training at home with the Bowflex Xtreme XTLU home gym, which includes a lat tower, squat station, leg attachment and adjustable pulley system for over 65 gym-quality exercises. It comes standard with 210 pounds of real Power Rod resistance (which can be upgraded to 310 or 410 pounds with optional additional Power Rods). The integrated lat tower with angled lat bar helps to build back and shoulder muscles quickly. The upper and lower pulley/squat station enables you to do squats and build your gluts, hamstrings, and quads. The XTLU also has multiple cable/pulley positions for custom workouts.

The leg extension/leg curl attachment rivals specialized leg equipment found in gyms, and will help you develop strong, muscular legs. Efficient and easy to use, the leg attachment connects easily, and can be removed in seconds for using the squat station.

The Xtreme XTLU utilizes Bowflex's patented Power Rods, which provide resistance, or weight, that feels as good as or better than free weights--but without the inertia or risk of joint pain usually associated with free weights. You can hook one, two, three, four or all of your Power Rod units to the cable pulley system and go from as little as 5 pounds all the way up to 210 pounds of resistance.

They're precisely manufactured from a high-tech composite material under the highest quality control measures, then sheathed and tested 4 separate times to ensure quality and durability. The Power Rod units are so strong, you can flex them repeatedly but you won't be able to wear them out. In fact, they're so strong, Bowflex backs them with its No-Time-Limit Warranty free replacement offer.

Feature Detail:

• Gym-style vertical workout position
• Adjustable, quick release seat with Polyurethane cushion
• Reinforced "X"-shaped base for maximum stability
• Compact size for smaller workout spaces
• Triple function hand-grip/ankle cuffs
• Workout area: 7 by 6 feet
• Dimensions: 6'11" by 4'8" by 4'2" (H x L x W)
• High density padding with vinyl cover
• Powder-coated heavy-duty steel frame

Manufacturer's Warranty
Seven-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship

About Home Gyms
While offering the convenience of working out in the comfort and privacy of your own home, home gyms also allow you to focus on specific routines without having to wait in line or switch between a complex array of machines. In addition to improving strength, power, coordination, and muscular endurance, weight training can enhance weight reduction, enhance the immune and cardiovascular systems, and help prevent injuries. In general, home gym machines are compact units designed to strengthen and exercise many parts of the body. While no single home gym can provide a complete strength training solution, they are a convenient way to combine many exercises into a single unit. Some home gyms focus exclusively on upper-body workouts, while other, more advanced units focus on upper- and lower-body conditioning.

List Price: $1,299.00

Used Price: $2,000.00

Customer Review: I like it

Very handy to have and since its in my home I'm getting more excersize than when I had to go to the gym. I've been really busy with work so this has been very important since going to the gym was not always an option and when tired from work it was too easy to miss work outs.

-Dave

Customer Review: Get the Beach Body You've Always Wanted

Have you always dreamed of the perfect body? Well here's your chance! The Bowflex, combined with a work from you will work wonders on your body, and is perfect for storage, because it's slim and light.I It's a home gym all in one, working out your arms, legs, and everything else you can think of. Get the beach body you've always wanted. It couldn't be easier.

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