Most people go to the gym to lose weight. This is especially true for those with desk jobs or sedentary jobs requiring little physical activity.
While the gym offers many different exercises, plenty of gym-goers may be out of shape, overweight, with knees unable to bear the wear and tear.
They can consider the Bowflex Max Trainer as an exercise alternative.
The Max Trainer is designed to ALWAYS support your weight, ensuring there is never an unpleasant or harmful impact.
That’s good news if running hurts your hips, ankles, or butt.
Let’s look at what makes the Max Trainer Series some of the best equipment for those with weak joints and see what kind of support it offers on your fitness journey.
Is the Bowflex Max Trainer Good for Those With Bad Knees?
The Bowflex Trainer is excellent if you want a low-impact yet challenging workout.
The Max Trainer’s rising motion is gentler on your joints than a standard exercise machine while providing more intense cardiovascular exercise.
These Bowflex machines are perfect for HIIT workouts since they can increase your heart rate with quick climbs and various resistance options.
That said, even the most affordable model is a real investment, as the basic Bowflex ellipticals cost more than $1,600.
What Is the Bowflex Max Trainer?
This Bowflex Trainer is one of the top fitness equipment options on the market. Only a few machines on the market have a design as cutting edge as this one.
This device combines the ergonomics and performance of a treadmill, stair climber, and elliptical machine in one device. Talk about innovation.
Bowflex promises the benefits and advantages of all three cardio machines for the price and size of one purchasing one of these elliptical trainers
The device comes in three different models, with price points ranging from $1,499 to $2,799.
Given the price, should you spend such a considerable sum of money on one of these cardio machines?
The sections below should help clarify if this is the right decision for you.
Who Is the Bowflex Max Trainer For?
The Bowflex Trainers are made to offer a low-impact, high-intensity cardiovascular workout at home.
Compared to when you walk or run on a treadmill, this machine keeps your lower body from taking the same beating that a treadmill puts on your ankles and hips.
Although they have a smaller footprint than treadmills, these Trainers are ideal for people committed to working out in their home gym and have the space for this substantial piece of cardio equipment.
People with lower body joint problems may also enjoy utilizing a Max Trainer instead of a stair-stepper because the training is low impact. It’s also better for those undergoing physical therapy.
It’s also important to note the emphasis Bowflex places on high-intensity workouts.
While the intensity level may be changed, individuals who love pushing themselves to the limit during a home workout can also find the Max Trainers particularly challenging if they find the right settings.
NOTE: It is possible to work the upper body muscles, including the biceps, triceps, shoulders, and upper back, because all Max Trainers come with dynamic grips.
What Are the Models Under the Bowflex Max Trainer Series?
The wildly successful fitness firm Bowflex offers everything you need for a well-rounded workout cycle.
It offers adjustable dumbbells, fancy treadmills, lethal kettlebells, and even indoor cycle bikes that can compete with Peloton.
The stand-out line comes in the form of the Max Trainers. It combines a leg-burning climbing motion with a rowing machine’s arms pump and rolling action.
The M6, M9, and Max Total 16 are the three models of the Max Trainer. They all come with heart rate monitoring grips, a USB charging port, and a water bottle holder for maximum user care.
These models each have different features that vary depending on their price points.
Reminder: The Bowflex products listed need an AC wall plug to function.
The Bowflex Max Trainer M6
Features:
- Price: $1,499
- Warranty: 90-day labor, 2-year parts, and a 2-year frame
- Communication: Bluetooth (no Wi-Fi required)
- Maximum 14-minute intervals, calorie burning, fat burn, stairs, and manual settings
Although it is the cheapest model on the list, the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 is not a cheap-feeling exercise machine.
This advanced piece of equipment includes a charging outlet, bottle holder, heart rate contact grips incorporated into the handlebars, and a 1-year subscription to the JRNY training app.
The app offers a variety of on-demand classes, preset workouts, and even real-time coaching.
The M6 lacks Wi-Fi, streaming, and a touch screen, which is where its specifications differ from the higher-end models. Two users are the maximum allowed for the workout history.
Additionally, some customers say they appreciate how the M6’s simplicity helps them focus on their health and workouts.
The Bowflex Max Trainer M9
Features:
- Price: $1,999
- Warranty: 90-day labor, 3-year parts, and 3-year frame
- Communication: Bluetooth (Wi-Fi required)
- Manual, Fat Burn, Calorie Burn, and Stairs are preset exercise routines.
The M9 costs $500 more than the M6 but has several more features.
The M9 has Bluetooth-enabled speakers and an integrated touch screen, just like the T16. A Bluetooth armband is also included to track your heart rate.
It also has a USB charging port and an enhanced, dual-mode LCD/LED screen. It has the same technology as the Total 16 but with a little less strength.
According to users, the M9 is a terrific HIIT or cardio system and is excellent for weight loss and performance training. We can vouch for this!
Most people adore the interactive screen and the opportunity to stream their favorite shows while exercising, although some complained about Wi-Fi connectivity issues.
The Bowflex Max Total 16
Features:
- Price: $2,799
- Warranty: 90-day labor, 3-year parts, and 3-year frame
- Communication: Bluetooth (Wi-Fi required)
- Manual, Fat Burn, Calorie Burn, and Stairs are preset exercise routines.
The Max Total 16 is Bowflex’s newest and most expensive model, which has garnered positive reviews for its use as an effective and worthwhile workout tool.
The MT16 currently only has one review on the website, in which the customer claims it motivated them to become a better version of themselves. What a review indeed.
Peeling back the layers, the MT16 resembles the M9 with a few extra bells and whistles.
With this beast, the touch-screen console extends by 6 inches. It offers two more handlebar grips and has increased durability with a dual-rail construction. It even stands an inch taller.
It does all of this for an additional $800 compared to the M9.
NOTE: Except for the Max Total, which offers upper body-specific workout programs, Max Trainers focus more on the lower body than the upper body.
What Makes the Bowflex Max Trainer Good for People With Weak Knees?
The Bowflex Max Trainer can be an excellent choice if you want a low-impact workout that still allows you to push yourself and exceed who you were yesterday.
The climbing motion of the Max Trainer offers a more intense workout than a typical elliptical machine while being gentler on your joints.
According to the Bowflex website, these machines are perfect for HIIT workouts since they can increase your heart rate thanks to their varying resistance levels. This makes it ideal for burning fat.
What Are the Benefits and Risks of the Bowflex Max Trainers?
The next part of this review has more information about the Bowflex Max Trainer pros, cons, benefits, and risks.
Benefits of the Max Trainers
- 2.5x More Effective Than Other Cardio Equipment: Bowflex Max Trainers burn more calories than any other cardio machine when used at the same pace and intensity.
- Works the Entire Body: Max Trainers are excellent for giving you full-body exercise. The machines’ two-hand placement positions work your arms, shoulders, back, and chest.
- Easy on the Joints: Bowflex Max Trainers are a fantastic way to obtain a vigorous, full-body workout without the stress on your joints.
- Takes Less Space: The Max Trainer is a dynamic piece of equipment that uses less space than any other Bowflex machine.
- High Tech: Some of the most cutting-edge tracking features are on Bowflex Max Trainers. You can monitor your heart rate by resting your hands on the handlebar.
- Connectivity: This cardio machine offers Bluetooth connectivity. You can connect your device and phone so that all of your stats are instantly accessible on your phone.
- Cuts the Cardio Time Into Half: A 14-minute workout program is integrated into Max trainers. It assists you in burning calories more quickly than you could imagine.
- User Profiles: Profiles adjust to your preferences, record all the information about your exercises, and sync up with your devices.
- Afterburn: Cardio is one of the few exercises that creates beneficial afterburn. The 14-minute workout boosts your metabolism, and it burns calories and fat long after you’re done.
- Resistance Levels and Workout Programs: Choose from a wide range of fitness modes, such as steady state, stairs, calorie goal, fat burn, etc.
Risks of the Max Trainers
- Price: The M3, M5, and M7 Max Trainers are some of the priciest cardio machines on the market.
- Assembly: This machine can be challenging to set up. You may have to spend more for an additional professional setup service if you’re not adept with mechanics.
The Ideal Uses of the Max Trainer Series
Here are some best uses for the Max Trainers:
1. Loss of Weight or Fat
The Max Trainer series’ primary goal is to assist you in losing weight as quickly as possible.
In just a short period of consistent use, you’ll burn many calories and lose fat all over your body, including your hips, thighs, and love handles.
2. Muscle Tone
If you want to look bulky like a bodybuilder, the Max Trainer is NOT for you. However, the Max Trainer can get you toned and shredded.
In other words, once the fat is gone, you won’t seem gaunt or skinny. You’ll look fit instead.
Additionally, muscle tone reduces loose skin, which many of us would prefer to be as tight as possible.
Thanks to the Max Trainer’s full-body workout, you will develop this holistic muscular tone throughout your entire body.
3. Cardiovascular Health
Because of the Max Trainer series’ remarkable weight loss capabilities, the health element is often overlooked.
The Max Trainer is actually one of the healthiest forms of training because it blends anaerobic and aerobic activity.
Using the Max Trainer is like running and lifting weights simultaneously. It’s amazing for heart health.
Tips and Tricks When Buying the Best Bowflex Max Trainer for You
Here’s how to choose the best Max Trainer model if you’re already sold on the device:
#1 Establish a Budget
The M6 has the fewest features but is the most affordable model. For most elliptical users, the M9 is a reliable middle-of-the-road solution that will be more than adequate.
If money isn’t an issue, though, the expensive Bowflex Total 16 has everything you could want from these machines.
#2 Identify Your Streaming Requirements
The M9 or the Total 16 might be your best options if you stream fitness exclusively.
Both have built-in touch screens and Bluetooth speakers that can be used to stream fitness videos (or cooking shows, if that’s more your style).
#3 Verify the Dimensions of Your Area
The cardio machines are comparable in size; however, the M6 has a smaller footprint than the other two if you’re short on floor space.
#4 Canceling Your Order
The good news is that if you decide to cancel your order, Bowflex will repurchase your Max Trainer from you within six months of delivery.
The bad news is that shipping and handling will still cost you money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Bowflex Max Trainer Good for Seniors?
YES. The Bowflex Max Trainer combines an elliptical’s low-impact motion with a stepper’s calorie-burning capability. This makes Bowflex one of the best elliptical machines for seniors.
What Workout Programs Can You Do With the Max Trainers?
Bowflex Max Trainers are a hybrid of an elliptical and a stair climber. It is made to provide a low-impact, high-intensity workout that is excellent for high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
What Is the JRNY App?
This app is designed to evaluate your fitness level and offer you a workout plan depending on your skills and objectives. Additionally, it records past workouts and charts fitness improvement.
How Much Exercise Should I Get Each Day?
While the ideal amount will depend on your skill level and goals, starting with 30-minute daily sessions is advisable. The more you get used to spending time working out, the more endurance you can build.
What Is the Difference Between a Max Trainer and an Elliptical?
The biggest difference is that an elliptical machine provides a front-to-back circular motion, and the Max Trainer is more of an up-and-down motion.
This is similar to a stepper but without impact.
Conclusion
You might purchase an elliptical. You could also buy a stair stepper. You could also buy a treadmill. Or you might purchase cost-free weights. You can buy all of them separately.
But nothing will come close to the Max Trainer series if you’re trying to lose weight while dealing with knee pain and weak joints.
This review was compiled to help you choose the best Max Trainer product. We hope this guide helps you choose the right Max Trainer for your workout needs!
