The Bowflex Revolution could put some gyms out of business. This machine is capable of nearly every standard gym workout, from upper and lower body, to abdomen, core and back exercises, and even cardiovascular workouts. Of course you'll have to provide blaring music and hard bodies all by yourself, but for those looking for an all-in-one machine for home training, this is it! The hefty price tag, however, will keep all but the most serious buyers away. Then again, that kind of commitment might inspire you to actually use the thing, unlike most home gym equipment.
Bowflex Revolution Home Gym
SpiraFlex Technology and the Bowflex Revolution
The Bowflex Revolution comes kitted out with 220 pounds of standard resistance, upgradeable to 300 or even 410 pounds for serious trainers, using the patented 'Spiraflex' system. This system was developed for astronauts training in space, because weight resistance doesn't work in a gravity-free environment. SpiraFlex uses a rotary motion in a coiled disc, similar to weight plates but much lighter. One of the advantages, besides the compact size and light weight, is that SpiraFlex provides a constant linear resistance, unlike weights or even Bowflex's 'Power Rod' system, which provides a progressive resistance. What this means is that the resistance is equal throughout the movement, providing a smoother and more substantial workout. It is more akin to a body-weight workout than free weights, with the added benefit of being less likely to cause an injury.
Before choosing a Bowflex workout it is important to determine what your fitness goals are. Just like in a commercial gym, you can set up a routine that can best help you achieve them. The three main types of workouts are
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The 'not-quite-million-dollar' question that anyone who has sat awake late at night watching a Bowflex infomercial is bound to ask is: Does the Bowflex really work? The answer depends on three things.
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Exercises with the Bowflex Revolution
The Bowflex Revolution has over 100 exercises with several hundred more variations. It comes with a rowing seat mechanism, which provides a great cardiovascular workout. There is also a leg harness, foot harness, and squat harness, allowing for a huge variety of workouts. Optionally, you can get the Lat Tower and Ab/Back extensions which will create even more workout variety. The Revolution also comes with a preacher curl attachment, hand grips, and an instructional DVD to get your workouts started.
Bowflex recommends having an available workout space of 7ft. By 5.5ft. The Revolution is a heavy unit, weighing in at about 240 pounds, so it is best to use a dedicated space. It does, however, fold up nicely, but still takes up a lot of room. It is also an attractive machine, so those with a dedicated space will appreciate the 'look' it gives to their workout room. The Revolution commands attention, which will also likely result in increased dedication on the part of the user.
For those familiar with the name 'Nautilus', you will know that the company builds great equipment in use in thousands of gyms around the world. Bowflex is made by Nautilus, and lives up to the same great standard of the brand. The Bowflex Revolution is the latest variation in a design that started with the 'Power Rod' system of the original Bowflex (hence the name). The new SpiraFlex technology represents a great improvement on that original design both in aesthetic/space consideration, and in the actual workout. It is indeed a 'revolution' as far as home gym equipment goes.
The one big drawback to the Bowflex Revolution is of course the price: the investment is hefty. The lower-end XP comes in at a $2299 with the standard Revolution at $2799. Searching online may 'net' some deals, but since this is a newly introduced machine there are not many used models floating around. Still, for those serious about their home gym, this is a great piece of gear that will provide years of satisfaction and great workouts. In the end, the most important consideration is your health and fitness, and the Bowflex Revolution may be just the thing to keep you on track to your goals.