Bowflex advice

[Col. Kurtz]

Anybody have an opinion on Bowflex? I've been watching Craigslist and have looked at their site and remain confused on the different models. Is this a decent or convenient way to workout?

Thanks in advance!

[Blak Smyth]

It really depends on the workout.
It is not bad if you are just looking for a way to get a little excersize in, but it isn't going to replace a weight bench effectively IMHO.

[Remo]

Jerry, I have one of their higher end models, when I moved into my new house I was quite aways from my old gym, so I got the Bowflex to put in the basement to supplement my workouts as I usually work out at work, they seem to be a quality machine, easy to use and you can get results. I would recommend finding one that has the highest/heaviest "weight" tension rods. Good luck.

[chachee52]

As a PT and Exercise Physiologist, I'd see if you can't get a cable cross system. You can do more with it and more consistant tension.
Just my opinion. I use nothing but free wts and cable systems.

[Col. Kurtz]

So it sounds like it would be more for toning and getting the cardio up? It also looks like to work the abs requires an additional set up..

[chachee52]

Originally Posted by Col. Kurtz

So it sounds like it would be more for toning and getting the cardio up? It also looks like to work the abs requires an additional set up..

Most AB machines don't really target the ABs in people. The main reason I say this is because people tend to compensate with their hip flexors that are right under your "abs". Best bang for your buck for ABs/core muscles is a TheraBall/Exercise Ball. Tops they are $40 but I've seen them for $10. You can work out your entire body on one.
As for the Tone vs Cardio that's a big debate that is too long to discuss. Short story is that the Bow Flex is for muscle building/toning. Treadmill/bike/etc is for cardio. But there are some schools of thought that say that weight lifting is also a cardio work out.