Bowflex MAX Trainer
- ELLIPTICAL MEETS STEPPER: Combines the easy low-impact motion of an elliptical with the calorie burning power of a stepper.
- RESISTANCE: Adjustable dial increases the challenge of your workout with up to 8 levels of resistance.
$999.00
Bowflex MAX Trainer Prices
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Description
Table of Contents
Bowflex MAX Trainer
Welcome to the ultimate Bowflex MAX Trainer buying guide and price comparison page.
As the winner of the 2013 IDA Design Award (Max Trainer M3 model); Red Dot Design Award 2015 and German Design Award 2017, you would expect amazing things from this cardio machine.
Here you will find everything you need to know about the Bowflex MAX Trainer M8, M3, M5, and M7, read reviews, watch demo videos, compare features and also compare prices for the best deal. Oh, and we also included discount codes you might be able to use to save even more!
What is the Bowflex MAX trainer?
Well, in simple terms, if you’re looking for an alternative to elliptical trainers and treadmills, then the Bowflex MAX Trainer is certainly something to consider. Combining the total body workout of an elliptical cross trainer with the calorie-torching power of a stepper, this cardio machine is an awesome hybrid.
Does that sound great? Thought so – and all this in a smooth; low-impact motion. Read on to find out more.
Discount Codes
Bowflex MAX Trainer Reviews
Before we delve into each MAX Trainer version, we’ll cover the reviews, in their entirety. We collated ratings for all versions to get an overall score. But don’t worry – we’ve also broken them down so you can see how each one performed. This will help you decide which version is the best for you.
In total, Fitness Savvy discovered a staggering 12,570 customer reviews of the MAX Trainer range of cardio machines. Overall, this series of exercise machines scored 4.6 out of 5.
With a varied opinion on this product, here are the pros and cons, as reported by those who have used these machines.
- An ex-physical education teacher reports this as being the best exercise device he had ever used.
- The 14-minute workout is like nothing many users had ever experienced – difficult, rewarding, and showing results within a couple of weeks.
- The resistance settings make it more versatile than a treadmill or standard elliptical.
- Quick and easy assembly was reported by many reviewers.
- For those with joint problems, the low-impact nature of this machine is perfect.
- With a wide range of options and versions, there is a MAX trainer to suit most needs and budgets.
- These compact machines have a small footprint and are easy to move around and transport.
- A wide range of workout options
- A number of reviewers reported various issues including faulty control panel, belts slipping, internal nuts coming away which required tightening every workout.
- Several reviewers reported squeaking after a short time of use (a few months or in some cases, a few weeks)
- Too hard to use for several reviewers. The difficulty was not in operating the control panel, more in actually getting the pedals to move. However, most found they improved very quickly and were able to progress through resistance levels over a relatively short period of time
Videos
Bowflex MAX Trainer M8 (Previously M7)
We’ve updated this review to take account of the recently released Bowflex MAX Trainer M8. The M8 is the successor to the M7 and is the most feature-packed model in the Bowflex MAX Trainer series. It has a slightly larger footprint that the M3 & M5 (now replaced with the M6), however, it has larger pedals, more user-profiles and a greater level of resistance.
While the MAX Trainer M8 is the upgraded version of the M7, we have split the reviews and features, and also included prices for both models. This is because, at the time of writing, both models are still available.
Bowflex MAX Trainer M8 Reviews
he latest addition to this ever-popular HIIT cardio training series is the Bowflex MAX Trainer M8. Improving on previous versions, this cross-trainer and stepper machine hybrid currently scores an impressive 4.6 out of 10 from 195 online customer reviews. Professional reviewers are also praising the machine with many giving it full marks. Users were pleased with the range of workout options, the quick and easy setup, and the low-impact nature.
- Most reviewers felt that the Bowflex M8 represents fantastic value.
- Great for those with knee joint problems. This is because it is a low-impact machine.
- Quick and easy to set up – should take an hour or so.
- Compact and easy to move around if needed.
- Users are happy with the range of workout programs and versatility.
- Multiple reviewers commended the quietness, with one saying it is the quietest cardio machine she has ever used.
- The customer service at Bowflex was great at helping customers with problems, as reported by the majority of reviewers.
- A buyer who previously owned an M5 was impressed with the new features stating that the ergonomics were far better and the handlebars greatly improved.
- The plastic materials are flimsy, according to some buyers, making it look “cheap” and in one instance was already separating from other sections upon opening.
- A small number of users report that the machine is not sturdy, with one reviewer attributing it to the 1/4″ lateral give in the rollers. This, in effect, makes the foothold feel loose.
- One reviewer was unhappy with the faulty unit they received. They were sent a replacement part to fix the issue, which did not work, and were repeatedly sent other replacement parts to try and fix the problem which became frustrating.
About the Bowflex MAX Trainer M8
The MAX Trainer M8 is the latest addition to this Bowflex cross trainer/stepper series. The whole concept of this machine is to combine the calorie-burning power of a stepper and low-impact motion of the elliptical.
The unique design makes the Bowflex MAX Trainer smaller than a traditional elliptical, so saves on space. With the addition of wheels/rollers, it is also easy to relocate within your home.
With many improvements to its predecessor, the MAX Trainer M7, the M8 is certainly worth a look. We’ve examined the main features and compared them with the M7 and others in the series to help you better understand this model.
Improvements to the M7
Firstly, we thought it best to check out the improvements to the previous model. The main thing we noticed was the larger console, which is re-positioned to make it more accessible.
Bowflex has also improved the tablet holder, making it magnetic for a better and more secure attachment.
Minor improvements include the addition of a USB charger, Bluetooth heart rate monitoring and enhanced color scheme.
Users will also be able to connect to the new Max Intelligence App.
The MAX Intelligence App
You might have been wondering what this new Max Intelligence app is all about. Firstly, let’s make it clear that this app requires a subscription (which costs $149 per year).
The app develops personalized and guided workouts that are tailored to suit your capabilities. Using your workout history, the app learns about your training habits and creates unique workouts to meet your needs, goals, and capabilities.
It features a library of trainer-led videos and celebrates milestones and achievements by using in-depth training analysis.
It doesn’t matter if you have an hour or just four minutes to workout, the app will provide a workout that will make the time count.
Features, Benefits & Specs
- 20 resistance levels – some cardio machines feature lots of resistance levels, but they all feel the same. The Max trainer is not one of those. We found most users never reached the higher levels of resistance!
- Dual-mode LCD/LED display – the monitor feeds back key info such as calorie-burn rate, time, distance, resistance level and more.
- Add time feature – easily add additional time to your workout at the touch of a button.
- Max Intelligence App – as mentioned, this app is personalized with dynamic coaching and rewards.
- Magnetic media tray – keep your devices secure with this improved media tray attachment.
- Multi-grip, dynamic handlebars – customers praised the improved handlebars in their reviews. Three different positions help users activate a higher percentage of upper-body muscles.
- Up to 4 user profiles – perfect for those with families who are keen to use the machine and wish to set up their profile and track their own stats.
- One-touch buttons – quickly and effortlessly change resistance levels and add time to your workout.
- Heart rate monitoring – keep track of your heart rate and keep it in the ideal range with accurate heart rate monitoring.
- Sports performance pedals – secure your feet with these premium pedals.
- Transport wheels/rollers – easily relocate your MAX trainer.
- Other features – includes a water bottle holder and USB charger
- Minimum ceiling height – it’s important to ensure you have enough space. For this machine, you should add 38 cm (15″) to the tallest user’s height. This will provide adequate headroom.
- Max. user weight: 300 lbs
- Product weight: 147 lbs
- Dimensions: 47.9″ x 30.8″ x 65.2″ (L x W x H)
- Warranty: 3 years frame and parts; 90 days labor.
Bowflex MAX Trainer M8 Price Comparison
Bowflex Max Trainer M6 (previously the M5)
The Bowflex MAX Trainer M5 has been upgraded. The most recent version is now the Bowflex MAX Trainer M6. Read on to find out everything you need to know about this machine.
Bowflex Max Trainer M6 Review
The latest addition to this ever-popular HIIT cardio training series is the Bowflex MAX Trainer M6. Improving on previous versions, this cross-trainer and stepper machine hybrid currently scores an impressive 4.7 out of 10 from 476 online customer reviews. Professional reviewers also praise the machine with many giving it full marks. Users were pleased with the range of workout options, the quick and easy setup, and compactness
- Most reviewers felt that the Bowflex M6 represents fantastic value.
- Great for those with knee joint problems. This is because it is a low-impact machine.
- Quick and easy to set up – should take an hour or so.
- Compact and easy to move around if needed.
- Users are happy with the range of workout programs and versatility.
- Multiple reviewers commended the quietness, with one saying it is the quietest cardio machine she has ever used.
- The customer service at Bowflex was great at helping customers with problems, as reported by the majority of reviewers.
- A buyer who previously owned an M5 was impressed with the new features stating that the ergonomics were far better and the handlebars greatly improved.
- The plastic materials are flimsy, according to some buyers, making it look “cheap” and in one instance was already separating from other sections upon opening.
- A small number of users report that the machine is not sturdy, with one reviewer attributing it to the 1/4″ lateral give in the rollers. This, in effect, makes the foothold feel loose.
- One reviewer was unhappy with the faulty unit they received. They were sent a replacement part to fix the issue, which did not work, and were repeatedly sent other replacement parts to try and fix the problem which became frustrating.
About the Bowflex MAX Trainer M6
The MAX Trainer M6 is the latest addition to this Bowflex cross trainer/stepper series. The whole concept of this machine is to combine the calorie-burning power of a stepper and low-impact motion of the elliptical.
The unique design makes the Bowflex MAX Trainer smaller than a traditional elliptical, so saves on space. With the addition of wheels/rollers, it is also easy to relocate within your home.
Famed for its HIIT (high-intensity cardio training) options, the Bowflex boasts fast workouts with great results. This cardio trainer features a 14-minute and 21-minute interval training option which is great for those who prefer intense workouts or are limited by time.
Compared with other models in the series (notably the M7 and M8) the M6 has a smaller footprint.
If you want a greater level of user-profiles, then the M6 might not be for you. It includes just 2, compared with 4 on the M7 and M8 models.
With many improvements to its predecessor, the MAX Trainer M5, the M6 is certainly worth a look. We’ve examined the main features and compared them with the M5, as well as others in the series, to help you better understand this model.
Improvements to the M5
Firstly, we thought it best to check out the improvements to the previous model. The main thing we noticed was the larger console, which is re-positioned to make it more accessible.
Bowflex has also improved the tablet holder, adding a magnetic component for easier and more secure attachment.
Other minor improvements include the addition of a USB charger, Bluetooth heart rate monitoring and enhanced color scheme.
Users will also be able to connect to the new Bowflex JRNY App.
The Bowflex JRNY App
You might have been wondering what this new Bowflex JRNY app is all about. Firstly, let’s make it clear that this app requires a subscription (which costs $149.99 per year).
With this app, custom workouts automatically change intensity and time as you improve. This helps users maximize results without spending more time planning how to progress.
The app features “Max”, a virtual trainer sho encourages you, giving an extra push to help break plateaus and take you to your limits. You’ll also receive rewards and celebrate new PBs – all in real-time.
You’ll discover a library of trainer-led videos as well as educational content. All of this will be presented and recommended based on previous workout history and habits.
If you’re not sure of the compatibility, we found that the Bowflex JRNY™ App works with Apple devices (iOS 11.0+) and most Android devices (version 6.0+)
Features, Benefits & Specs
- 16 resistance levels – some cardio machines feature lots of resistance levels, but they all feel the same. The Max trainer is not one of those. We found most users never reached the higher levels of resistance!
- Backlit console display – the monitor feeds back key info such as calorie-burn rate, time, distance, resistance level and more.
- Workout programs – 5, including the famous 14-minute HIIT workout.
- Add time feature – easily add additional time to your workout at the touch of a button.
- Magnetic media tray – keep your devices secure with this improved media tray attachment.
- Multi-grip, dynamic handlebars – customers praised the improved handlebars in their reviews. Three different positions help users activate a higher percentage of upper-body muscles.
- Up to 2 user profiles – perfect for those with more than one user who is keen to use the machine and wish to set up their profile and track their own stats.
- One-touch buttons – quickly and effortlessly change resistance levels and add time to your workout.
- Heart rate monitoring – keep track of your heart rate and keep it in the ideal range with accurate heart rate monitoring.
- Sports performance pedals – secure your feet with these premium pedals.
- Transport wheels/rollers – easily relocate your MAX trainer.
- Other features – includes a water bottle holder and USB charger
- Minimum ceiling height – it’s important to ensure you have enough space. For this machine, you should add 38 cm (15″) to the tallest user’s height. This will provide adequate headroom.
- Max. user weight: 136 kg (300 lbs)
- Product weight: 67 kg (148 lbs)
- Dimensions: 117 x 66 x 163 cm (L x W x H)
- Warranty: 2 years parts, 90 days labor
M6 Price Comparison
Bowflex MAX Trainer M7 (Now M8)
As we already mentioned, the M8 is the newer version of the M7, however, the M7 is still available to buy from many retailers. It is now a cheaper option, so we have covered everything you need to know about this model, right here..
Bowflex MAX Trainer M7 Reviews
Out of 81 online customer reviews, the Bowflex MAX Trainer M7 scored 4.5 out of 5.
- Easy to assemble – all versions of the MAX Trainer appear to be set up in about an hour – give or take
- The 14-minute workout makes it great for those short on time
- A very durable machine, according to most users
- One user didn’t have matching handlebars
- Some reports of thumping and squeaking, as with other versions of the MAX Trainer
- One reviewer reports discomfort in the balls of their feet after several weeks of using the MAX Trainer M7.
Bowflex Max Trainer M7 Features & Benefits
The M7’s Smart MAX function learns your specific fitness level. Burn rate targets are set to match your ability while challenging you to improve overall fitness.
- 20 resistance levels: easily adjusted with one-touch buttons located on both the console and handlebars.
- 11 workout programs: Max 7 Minute Interval, Max 14 Minute Interval, Max 21 Minute Interval, Power Interval, Fitness Test, Manual, Stairs, Calorie Burn, Steady Pace, Calorie Goal, Fat Burn.
- Pedals: sports performance stainless steel pedals.
- Premium grips: commercial-grade + Aero Bar Handlebars. Various positions provide excellent versatility and added comfort to your workout.
- User Profiles: 4
- Dual-mode display (LCD/LED) – access your workout stats with ease. Quickly check your distance, time, speed, and heart rate.
- Burn Rate dial – displays your personalized burn rate target against your actual burn rate – a great motivational tool!
- Bluetooth Technology – sync your machine to the free Max Trainer App for more technical workout tracking.
- Media shelf/tablet holder
- Water bottle holder: no cardio machine would be complete without a trusty water bottle holder!
- Max. user weight: 300 lbs
- Product weight: 148 lbs
- Dimensions: 49″ x 30.5″ x 65.5″ (L x W x H)
- Warranty: home use; 3 years
Featuring the exclusive MAX Interval 14-minute workout, the M7 incorporated popular High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) methods. Wanna see what that’s all about? Check out the video below to see it in action:
Workouts
Take your training to the next level: With 11 varied workouts (including the aforementioned 14-minute MAX Interval workout) there is plenty to engage you. Not seen the video? Crazy, because it is just above this pretty section of writing!
The primary purpose of the Max Trainer M7 is to maximize calories burned in the shortest time. That’s why, in addition to the 14-minute workout, there is a 7-minute one, too. You will be burning up to 2.5 times more calories per minute compared to treadmills, elliptical cross trainers and steppers.
It’s All About Comfort
With extra-wide sport performance pedals (made of stainless steel for optimal support) and gym-quality moving handlebars (sculpted and dipped to provide maximum flexibility), this machine is very comfortable to use.
The M7 responds to you as you train, coaching and adjusting to match your needs.
M7 Price Comparison
Bowflex MAX Trainer M7, M5 & M3 Comparison
There are a few reasons you might choose the M7 over the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 or M5. First and foremost is its larger selection of resistance levels. With the M7 you get 20 rather than 8 or 16. The sport performance pedals are far more durable, being made from stainless steel.
Also, the M7 features a longer menu of preset workouts: 11 instead of 9 (for the M5) and 2 (for the M3). These extra workouts include variations of the MAX interval workout. For example, rather than the standard 14-minute interval, you can choose the 7 minute or 21 minutes one.
When comparing these models side by side, it is also worth looking at the customer review scores.
This is how they fared:
- M3 – 4.6 out of 5 stars (based on 2,892 customer reviews)
- M5 – 4.6 out of 5 stars (based on 7,299 customer reviews)
- M6 – 4.7 out of 5 stars (based on 476 customer reviews)
- M7 – 4.7 out of 5 stars (based on 1,708 customer reviews)
- M8 – 4.6 out of 5 stars (based on 195 customer reviews)
Bowflex MAX Trainer M3
The M3 is the entry-level model of the MAX Trainer series. It has a stripped-down workout availability (just the Max 14 Minute Interval and Manual), a basic display console, standard pedals and handlebars and a total of 8 resistance levels.
Bowflex MAX Trainer M3 Reviews
Out of 177 online customer reviews, the MAX Trainer M3 scored 4.4 out of 5.
- Easy to assemble – should take less than an hour
- The 14-minute workout is extremely challenging and rewarding
- Small footprint, so great for rooms with limited space
- Large knocking sounds, which the warranty would not cover. After the investigation, several users had experienced the same issue
- Limited display console
- The bottle holder is not very well positioned
Bowflex MAX Trainer M3 Features & Benefits
- 8 resistance levels: easily adjusted with one-touch buttons located on both the console and handlebars.
- 2 workout programs: Max 14 Minute Interval, Manual
- Pedals: standard
- Premium grips: standard
- User profiles: 2
- Burn rate dial – displays your personalized burn rate target against your actual burn rate – a great motivational tool!
- Media shelf/tablet holder
- Water bottle holder: no cardio machine would be complete without a trusty water bottle holder!
- Compact: small footprint makes this machine perfect for home gyms and those with smaller space availability.
- Max. user weight: 300 lbs
- Product weight: 143 lbs
- Dimensions – 49″ x 26″ x 64.7″ (L x W x H)
- Warranty: 1 year
M3 Price Comparison
Used Bowflex MAX Trainer
If you’re in the market for a used MAX trainer, then check out the prices below. You can also check out Craigslist for second-hand units.
Bowflex MAX Trainer vs. ProForm HIIT Cardio Trainer
The market for low-impact elliptical/stepper hybrids is dominated by two products – the Bowflex MAX Trainer, and the ProForm HIIT Cardio Trainer
If you’re unsure which is best for you, we’ve taken some of the work away and highlighted what makes each item stand out.
- Price – the most important thing for many people is the price. The ProForm HIIT comes in at $999 compared with $2,299 for the Bowflex MAX Trainer M8.
- Customer Review Score – while it is certainly cheaper, the ProForm HIIT Cardio trainer scored just 3.5 out of 5 from nearly 600 customer reviews compared with 4.6 out of 5 for the M8.
- Footprint – at 74 x 132 cm vs. 122 x 78, the ProForm takes up more floor space – 252 square centimeters to be precise. To put in perspective, this is about 16 x 16 cm of extra room, so not a huge difference, to be fair.
- Resistance Levels – the ProForm wins this battle, with 24 digital resistance levels vs. 20 for the MAX Trainer. That said, many reviewers stated that they never got close to the higher levels on either machine.
- Max. user weight – the ProForm HIIT Cardio Trainer wins hands down on this front at 350 lbs vs. 300 lbs for the MAX Trainer.
- Warranty – in the US, the ProForm HIIT Cardio trainer comes with 2 years parts and labor warranty and the MAX Trainer M8 has 3 years parts, but only 90 days labor.
- Other Features – the ProForm includes speakers, is iPod compatible, and has more pre-set workout programs (32 vs. 7)
So, which should you choose? If budget is a limiting factor then the ProForm HIIT Cardio Trainer will do the job. Some reviewers who tested both preferred the ProForm HIIT Cardio Trainer, so there is real competition between these two home cardio machines.
The Bowflex MAX Trainer does score higher from customer reviews, but most of them at this early stage are from the manufacturer’s own website. From our experience, the websites of brands tend to receive higher review scores than other outlets.
Time will tell, but at half the price, it is difficult to justify spending twice the amount on the MAX Trainer M8.
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