In a Nutshell
pros
- Large range suitable for beginners
- Tech integrations like Bluetooth, HR monitor, touchscreens
- The integrated JRNY app connects makes training fun
cons
- Coverage period of warranty and guarantee is fairly short
- Machines are tricky to assemble by yourself
About Bowflex
For 35 years, Bowflex has been synonymous with multi-function home gyms that allow you to do tens of different exercises. Recently, Bowflex branched out to offer treadmills, exercise bikes, ellipticals, adjustable dumbbells and weights, and even a membership-based digital fitness platform.
Bowflex products are suitable for beginners and fitness buffs alike. When used consistently, Bowflex products can give you results in a relatively short time, making them a good option for busy people. They’re easy to use and relatively compact considering their versatility.
Bowflex Treadmills Review
Treadmills are a great option for indoor running at any fitness level. Their surface is generally softer than outdoor tracks and you’ll get heart-healthy cardio benefits, rain or shine. Read on to learn about two Bowflex treadmills.
Bowflex Treadmill 10 Review
The Bowflex Treadmill 10 has a 10-inch adjustable HD touchscreen. It offers between a -5% and 15% incline, and the speed goes up to 12 mph. The Treadmill 10 tracks calories burned, time, speed, and distance so you can follow your progress. Controls on the handrail make incline and speed adjustments easy.
You’ll enjoy integrated grips that measure your heart rate plus a Bluetooth heart rate armband. A cushioned deck provides a comfortable surface for your steps, and a built-in fan keeps you comfortable. When you’re not using the Treadmill 10, you can fold it and stow it away. The JRNY fitness app is integrated with the Treadmill 10. It assesses your fitness level and recommends workouts based on your specifications. You’ll also get access to a variety of music playlists and you can stream shows from apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. The Treadmill 10 costs $1,999.
Bowflex Treadmill 22 Review
The Bowflex Treadmill 22’s HD touchscreen offers an upgraded 22” display. The display shows speed, distance, workout length, and calories burned. You can set your level of intensity and the treadmill’s speed goes up to 12 mph. The 22 offers between a -5% and 20% incline, with adjustable knobs that make changes seamless.
Casual and serious runners will like the Treadmill 22’s Comfort Tech cushioning for a softer stepping surface. Hand grips measure your heart rate, as does an integrated Bluetooth armband. The Treadmill 22 folds easily to 60% of its size. The 22 offers handlebar grips due to its steeper incline option. It has a built-in multi speed fan to keep you cool as you run.
The Treadmill 22 offers some great integrations with Bowflex’s JRNY fitness app. JRNY lets you stream preloaded workouts from Bowflex’s library. You can also stream your favorite shows and listen to great music playlists. The Bowflex Treadmill 22 costs $2,699.
Bowflex Stationary Bikes Review
Stationary bikes give you a powerful cardio workout in the form of an indoor cycling experience. Today’s exercise bikes are truly next gen, with racing speeds and a comfortable yet intense ride. Pedal on to learn about two of Bowflex’s stationary bikes.
Bowflex C6 Bike Review
The C6 Bike has an LCD display monitor to track your adjustable seat and a device holder for your phone or tablet. It offers 100 resistance levels that you can adjust during your workout. The C6 measures time, distance, heart rate, calories, and speed.
3lb dumbbells add an extra dimension to your workout. The C6 features 2 water bottle holders and a Bluetooth-enabled heart rate monitor. The bike’s seat and handlebars are adjustable for tailored comfort.
The Bowflex C6 integrates with Peloton, Zwift, or Bowflex’s own JRNY app, allowing you to select from an array of virtual backgrounds and access on-demand classes. You’ll also be able to access a comprehensive lineup of music playlists. And the price? Bowflex C6 costs just $999.
Bowflex VeloCore Bike Review
The VeloCore offers many of the same great features as the C6 but with some significant upgrades. Like the C6, the VeloCore has 100 resistance levels, water bottle holders, dual-sided pedals, and 3lb dumbbells. It also offers a Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband.
Unlike the C6 which is only a stationary bike, the VeloCore is both a stationary and a leaning bike. Leaning bikes simulate the side-to-side movement of a bike on the open road and provide the extra benefit of an arm and core workout while you cycle. The VeloCore also comes with integrated contact grips.
Another feature that sets VeloCore apart is the touchscreen display, which is available in a 16” or 22” size. The display screen lets you stream entertainment to make your workout fly by. If you subscribe to JRNY, Peloton, or Zwift, they’ll be displayed right on the screen. The VeloCore 16” costs $1,699 and the 22” costs $2,199.
Bowflex Ellipticals Review
An elliptical machine works out your upper and lower body together for a powerful aerobic workout. You’ll build stamina and endurance through a combination of high-intensity interval training and cardio. Step this way to more about two of Bowflex’s Max Trainer elliptical machines.
Bowflex’s Max Trainer M6 Review
The M6 has 16 levels of resistance. It can track progress for two users and features integrated contact grips to measure your heart rate. The M6 has an interactive display and can integrate with the JRNY fitness app through your phone or tablet.
The M6 has a burn rate display that lets you set goals and conquer them. Combining the benefits of an elliptical machine and a stairmaster, the M6 offers a high-intensity, low-impact workout that tones your full body.
The M6 is compact and sleek, making it a great choice for your home fitness routine. The cost of the Bowflex M6 is $1,699.
Bowflex’s Max Trainer M9 Review
The M9 offers all the benefits of the M6 with a few significant upgrades, like unlimited users. It has 20 resistance levels and includes a Bluetooth heart rate armband in addition to the integrated contact grips.
A 10” HD touchscreen on the M9 delivers training sessions, classes, and a slew of entertainment content to subscribers of the JRNY app. It also offers dynamic virtual backgrounds and a range of music playlists. The M9 provides a modern, technologically integrated approach to a high-performance workout in a short amount of time. The Max Trainer M9 costs $1,999.
Bowflex JRNY Training App
The JRNY app allows users to enjoy extra workout features and connect virtually with other people. Read on to learn how JRNY enhances your use of Bowflex equipment.
JRNY-compatible products offer the first six months of the app free. After that, a subscription costs $149/year or $19.99/month. JRNY is integrated right into the screens of higher-level models of Bowflex exercise bikes, Max Trainer elliptical machines, and treadmills. It can also be downloaded to your phone or tablet. Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells also work with a dedicated training app that coaches you as a personal trainer would.
JRNY is easy to use and is highly rated. It features a fitness assessment that personalizes your workouts. It builds a tailored fitness routine for you that progresses in difficulty. And you get access to virtual coaches and trainers who help guide you through the workouts.
JRNY works with entertainment apps like Netflix, Hulu and Prime, as well as offering many music playlists to enjoy as you exercise. The app lets you work out with beautiful virtual locations all around the world. In short, JRNY is a great companion to Bowflex equipment, allowing you to tailor your workouts and maximize your experience.
Pricing & Special Offers
Bowflex products can be bought on bowflex.com. They can also be bought through online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Dick’s Sporting Goods, and at several brick and mortar locations. You can use the retail locator to find a certified dealer near you.
Bowflex machines are generally considered good value for the money, and are intended to make working out accessible and affordable for the masses. For a limited time, standard shipping is free through the Bowflex website on many of their most popular machines. You can also get other freebies like a fitness mat, bench, or dumbbell stand.
Bowflex Payment Options
Bowflex allows you to pay for your machine over the course of 18 months, interest-free (not including taxes and shipping costs). To qualify for the 18-month financing, you’ll need to buy the machine using a Bowflex credit card.
Bowflex machines are covered by various warranty times for parts, frame, and labor. For example, the M9 Max Trainer frame and parts are covered for 3 years, and labor is covered for 90 days. The VeloCore bike is covered for frame and parts for 2 years, while electronics and labor for the bike are covered for 1 year. You can extend parts and labor coverage for most Bowflex equipment using the brand’s protection plans. The plan will give you coverage for up to 3 or up to 5 years of parts and labor on various equipment. Plans and prices vary, so check the protection plan section of the Bowflex website to learn more.
Bowflex offers a 6-week window for returns. To be eligible, products must be in their original packaging and be intact. Shipping costs are not refundable. JRNY subscriptions are not refundable, either.
Service and Support
Bowflex customer service is available by phone Monday-Friday from 6 am to 5 pm, PST, and on Saturday from 7 am to 4 pm PST. You can chat online with a Bowflex expert daily from 7 am to 6 pm PST, or through Facebook from 8 am to 5 pm PST daily. An impressive 80% of Bowflex’s inbound calls are answered within 20 seconds.
The Bowflex website includes FAQ pages about ordering Bowflex, as well as answers to questions about bikes, Max Trainers, Home Gyms, and SelectTech dumbbells. Bowflex’s FAQ section is fairly comprehensive, addressing a range of different topics.
On the Bowflex site, you can access the Bowflex Insider blog, and get up-to-date health tips, workout information, and nutritious recipes. You can also connect with Bowflex through their social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
Bottom Line
Is Bowflex worth your time and money? We believe so. Bowflex equipment is designed to be very beginner-friendly but will also give you a great workout if you’re already in excellent shape. With well-made machines that are intuitive and interactive, it’s easy to feel a part of the community and get into the habit of regular exercise. Compared with other similar machines, Bowflex is reasonably priced. Plus, you can add the JRNY app to further enhance your experience.
FAQs
Does Bowflex have a trial period?
It depends on the machine or product. The JRNY app offers a free trial period. For some machines, Bowflex offers a complimentary 6-month trial.
Does Bowflex have a lifetime warranty?
Warranties vary from machine to machine with Bowflex. Generally, warranties are provided for a year or two, with the option to pay for protection plans that extend coverage on the machine.
How much does it cost to ship a Bowflex?
Many Bowflex models offer free standard shipping. At checkout, it’s easy to see what the shipping costs are for a particular item to a specific location.
What are the payment options available for Bowflex?
Online Bowflex orders can be paid for with most major credit cards, the Bowflex financing plan, or PayPal.
How do I assemble my Bowflex machine? Is there a service that can do it for me?
Many users manage to assemble their Bowflex equipment using the detailed manual and assembly videos on the Bowflex website. There is an In-Home Assembly service that you can pay for at checkout in which someone will come and assemble your equipment for you.
