For those terrible weather days, or for those who prefer running with a tv in front of them, the Bowflex treadmill is a great investment. Targeting the middle price point, Bowflex treadmill's are well designed  functionally and aesthetically. Bowflex is made by Nautilus, a name that should be familiar to anyone who has gone to a fitness gym in the last 25 years. Known for quality and durability, the Nautilus reputation extends to Bowflex.

Bowflex Treadmill Features

One thing that sets a Bowflex treadmill apart from many other brands is the extra-large running surface. Most home treadmill's are flimsy affairs that skimp on power and size in order to fit in smaller spaces. The Bowflex design allows easy storage by folding up, while still boasting a 20 inch wide belt, by 60 inches long. This allows a fairly easy stride for all but the tallest runners. The Bowflex treadmill also has wheels which engage for storage purposes, and allow easy movement of a fairly heavy machine.

The weight of the machine also means a rock-solid feel when running, without slippage or a 'bounce' effect that a lot of home models have. It is solidly built, with a powerful 3hp motor that runs smoothly and provides a great track feel.

The Bowflex treadmill also has an interesting wireless heart monitor, as well as the more traditional handle-hold one, incorporated in the design. The higher end models also have a three-speed fan built right in, to keep you cool while doing a pounding workout.

Bowflex Treadmill Models

The Bowflex treadmill line comes in the 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series, with 3 Series being the cheapest and 7 series the most expensive. The whole line is built well, but the higher end models definitely have more features and are stronger. The 3 Series cost around $1000 and the 7 Series comes in around $1500, so for just a third more you can experience a home treadmill that rivals those of a gym.

Why Use a Bowflex Treadmill?

Running is something just about anyone in reasonable shape can do for free, so why would you opt to pay for an expensive treadmill? Well, as mentioned earlier, the weather in many parts of the world can make running a less-than-ideal activity for parts of the year, and the fewer excuses that can be made, the better. More importantly, however, is the reduced rate of impact of running on a treadmill versus running outdoors, particularly on pavement. A treadmill has a springy component to it, that absorbs shock through the system rather than through your knees. This can be especially important for athletes recovering from injury, or for elderly runners.

One of the drawbacks of running on a treadmill, however, is the lack of variety in the run. The Bowflex Treadmill has many programs available that at least vary the speed of the run in order to simulate an outdoor run to a certain extent. It is not perfect, but helps vary the workout.

Cardiovascular exercise is increasingly needed in our sedentary society, and the Bowflex Treadmill offers an opportunity for many. Running is probably the most complete cardio exercise there is, utilizing the largest muscles of the body and full body weight. It burns a huge amount of calories and helps the heart and lungs become strong. For those looking for the right tool for getting started on cardio workouts in the home, the Bowflex Treadmill is a sound investment.

Articles provided are for informational purposes only. Please seek the advice of a health care profesional before embarking on any fitness program. Learn to use your equipment properly to reduce the chance of injury.