Going to the gym can be a drag, and hitting the pavement for an outdoor run isn’t always possible with inclement weather patterns. There’s an easy solution to meet all of your cardio needs, and that is to invest in a treadmill machine for the home. The best treadmills provide an amazing cardio workout, especially when it comes to the reputable Bowflex brand.
There are so many reasons to choose a Bowflex, and not just to get in shape. If you're ready to invest in some home-gym equipment that will undoubtedly make your workout routine more convenient, this Bowflex treadmill comparison guide can help with the buying process.
The reasons to choose Bowflex as your home fitness equipment provider are endless. First of all, Bowflex is a highly-respected name of the industry, and you can trust the company’s products to last. It doesn’t matter your fitness level, either, a Bowflex can cater to your end goal, no matter if that means losing weight or building muscle. Here are a few things that the Bowflex brand is famous for:
Bowflex Treadmill Comparison
Bowflex Product Range
Bowflex has a variety of fitness products to choose from, everything from dumbells to kettlebells, but treadmills and treadclimber machines are the two most popular.
Bowflex Results Treadmills
Bowflex has a series of treadmills that are called the Results, and the name is fitting since results really do come from running on the treadmill regularly. This model of treadmill is geared towards running fanatics who take the sport seriously. This is thanks to the impressive motor power, so the machine can handle long, intense running sessions.
The main perk of choosing a Bowflex Results treadmill is that these machines were designed to be maintenance-free, therefore hassle-free. The belts on these treadmills are long-lasting, featuring durable 3-ply rubber material that can keep up with your daily running sessions.
Bowflex Treadclimbers
A Bowflex treadclimber is all about delivering amazing results, all through a simple walking motion. It combines the movement of a treadmill, stairclimber, and elliptical machine all in one. This is a highly effective low-impact workout that can lead to weight loss and muscle toning, just by walking.
The Bowflex Max Trainer is the treadclimber model that has gained the most attention, especially for people who are short on time and looking for an easy workout to do at home.
“Research tells us that ‘lack of time’ is the #1 barrier to working out,” says Bowflex. “Our Max Interval workout gives you the cardio benefits of a much longer workout in just 14 minutes.”
Best Bowflex Treadmills Reviewed
1. Bowflex T116
- 7. 5 inch color backlit LCD screen
- Bluetooth connectivity for connecting to Bowflex...
- 20" x 60" running surface
- 9 intuitive “push and go” workout programs
Out of all the Bowflex treadmills that have every been released since the company’s inception in 1986, the most popular is the Results series. There are two treadmills in this series, the BXT116 (AKA T116) and the BXT216 (AKA T216). First thing’s first, let’s start with the Bowflex BXT116 treadmill review. This is the first-released model in the Results series, and although some say that the T216 is a step ahead, this is still an excellent choice for enhancing cardio fitness.
According to Bowflex T116 treadmill reviews, it’s possible to “walk, jog or run your way to incredible results with the Bowflex Results Series BXT116.”
This machine features a 3.7 CHP motor and reaches an incline of 15%. The Bowflex BXT116 treadmill belt is 60” in length and 20” wide. Some people feel that 20” is not wide enough, especially for larger-bodied runners. If you’re looking for a wider belt to run on, the Bowflex T216 is the better choice.
One cool feature of the Bowflex Results treadmill series is that these machines come with Bluetooth Connectivity. This allows a user to capture the entire fitness journey by syncing the machine to a variety of fitness apps. You can syn the T116 to the official Bowflex Results Series app or choose an outside app like RunSocial. All of this technology is displayed on a 7.5” full-color, backlit LCD that comes with 9 preset workout programs.
There’s no doubt about the fact that the T116 is a highly-effective solution for cardio, but before you go out and purchase this model, be sure to read about the few advancements made to the Bowflex T216 model. These machines are very similar, but the company made a few upgrades to the T216 that some runners feel is worth the extra cost.
Pros
Cons
2. Bowflex T216
- Introducing Bowflex JRNY, the personalized...
- Stay engaged by exploring dozens of virtual...
- Motorized incline up to 15% to vary workout...
- 22" x 60" running path with Comfort Tech...
The Bowflex T216 treadmill is a step-up (pun intended) from the T116 with several upgrades that make this the ideal choice for avid runners. However, it's essential to keep in mind that with a newer model that comes with more innovative features, the price will reflect that. You can expect to pay a bit more for the T216, but Bowflex BXT216 treadmill reviews seem to all agree that it’s worth the extra cash.
Similar to the T116, this model features a 15% incline, but the motor is slightly more potent with 4.0 CHT (rather than 3.7). Another difference is that the width of the treadmill belt is marginally larger in this model. Although it is only larger by 2 inches, this makes a huge difference to some runners. If you're the type of runner that feels cramped on your gym's treadmills, it's a good idea to choose a slightly larger model.
Similar to the T116, the T216 comes with Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to sync your phone to the machine to monitor fitness progress. This technology is displayed on a 9" LCD full-color backlit screen, which, just like the machine belt, is slightly larger than the screen on the T116. Although it is only 1.5" larger, this makes a difference if you usually struggle to see the figures displayed by fitness machines.
According to Bowflex T216 treadmill reviews, you really can’t go wrong with this Bowflex treadmill. Aside from the fact that you’ll be spending at least a few hundred dollars more on the newer model, the T216 is hands-down better than the T116. Of course, if sticking to budget is your main priority, you might consider the latter, but if you’re willing to spend a few hundred more to enhance your fitness routine, by all means, go ahead.
Pros
Cons
Discontinued Bowflex Models
The company has discontinued some Bowflex models, but this doesn't mean that they're impossible to purchase. Some people prefer the Bowflex discontinued models to the ones listed above.
Of course, these are more difficult to purchase since they are no longer being made, but you can still find some online sellers offering up discontinued Bowflex machines, such as:
Bowflex Series 3 Treadmill
- Speed range is 0.5 to 10 miles per hour; incline...
- Workout programs include manual, cardio, running,...
- Folds-up for easy storage and portability
- Warranty: frame - 15 years, motor - 10 years,...
The first treadmill in the Bowflex Series line of products is the Series 3. This treadmill features a speed of 0.5 to 10 mph, several preset workout programs, and grip heart rate monitors to track fitness progress. According to a Bowflex Series 3 treadmill review, one of the most-loved features is the folding design for easy storage and portability.
Bowflex Series 5 Treadmill
- Powerful treadmill with 2.5-horsepower...
- Offers 12 workout programs to add variety to...
- Speed range of 0.5 to 10 miles per hour; incline...
- Walking/running surface area measures 20 by 60...
Every Bowflex Series 5 treadmill review says that this model has a slightly more powerful motor than the 3, plus it offers an incline range between 0 and 12%. This is a great model for both fast-paced walking and full-speed running.
Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill
- Selected as a top fitness product by a leading...
- Grip and telemetric heart rate monitors help you...
- Quick incline and quick-speed keys offer easy...
- Frame warranty for 15 years, motor for 10 years,...
The treadmill Bowflex Series 7 review comes with all the same features as the 5, but the main difference is that this treadmill is equipped with quick-speed keys that make it easy to access the desired fitness settings.
Comparison to Other Treadmill Brands
When shopping around for fitness equipment, especially a large cardio machine like a treadmill, it’s completely normal to shop around among several different brands.
Bowflex is often compared to brands like ProForm, Sole, Nordictrack, Life Fitness, Horizon, and Weslo. But when it comes to the quality of machine construction, no treadmill manufacturer compares to Bowflex.
The cost of Bowflex is slightly higher than some of the brands mentioned above, but the saying is true: you get what you pay for. That slightly higher cost is worth it when you compare the ease of running, the no-fuss maintenance, and the innovative technology that comes with every Bowflex product.
How to Setup & Use a Bowflex Treadmill
You can definitely expect some assembly with your new treadmill, but the good news is that Bowflex makes assembly as easy as possible. It is suggested that you have a buddy alongside you for the setup process. Since this is a bulky machine, the parts are heavy, and doing it on your own will make the process much more challenging. You can find a Bowflex treadmill assembly video online that will walk you step-by-step through the entire process.
When it comes time to use your new treadmill, the main concern should be your safety. Even if you’re trying to shed pounds quickly, take things slow to start, especially if you’re not a regular runner. While using the treadmill, always look forward, wear the proper footwear, and keep small children and pets away.
Care & Maintenance of Bowflex Treadmills
Compared to other treadmill brands, Bowflex treadmills require very little maintenance. This is why more runners are choosing Bowflex than any other brand. Even though maintenance is minimal, there are a few things that can be done to keep your new cardio machine in tip-top shape. The best way to keep a treadmill in good condition is to lubricate it.
The lubrication of the machine is fairly simple. Bowflex carries a product called the Lube-N-Walk kit, which can be purchased on Amazon. Following the manufacturer’s instructions for using this kit is the best way to prolong the life of the machine belt and motor. It also saves you from any larger expenses down the road by removing dirt and dust that can be harmful to a treadmill’s belt and motor.
People also Ask (FAQs)
What is the history of the Bowflex brand?
The Bowflex company originated in 1986 and is based in Vancouver, Washington. The first-ever Bowflex product was the 2000X, but now the company specializes in a variety of fitness equipment, including treadmills, treadclimbers, and ellipticals. Bowflex products are marketed and sold by Nautilus, Inc., and they are distributed internationally.
Do I need to consult a doctor before using these treadmills?
Harvard Medical School says that you need to stay smart about treadmill use, and although these are highly effective machines, they need to be used properly. Harvard says that yes, you should consult with a doctor before starting any new fitness routine. But if you have used a treadmill before and you are in relatively good condition, you should be fine with no consultation.
Should pregnant women use these to work out?
Yes, it is entirely safe for pregnant women to engage in cardio, and this includes running on a treadmill. However, a pregnant woman must consult with a medical professional before using a treadmill. It is also not suggested that pregnant women take up running if they are not familiar with this workout routine.
Do treadmills help with weight loss? How many calories do treadmills burn?
Running on a treadmill is a great way to lose weight.
Live Healthy says that “running on the treadmill for 30 minutes at an easy pace of 5 mph, a 125-pound person will burn 240 calories while a 185-pound person will burn about 355 calories. A 240-calorie loss adds up to just over an ounce of weight lost.”
How do you reset a Bowflex treadmill?
A reliable source on treadmills says that to reset your Bowflex machine, "press and hold the ENTER and POWER keys for 3 seconds. This puts the treadmill into dormant mode. From here, you can access many features, refer to your user manual for each one and how to access them.”
What is the best Bowflex Treadmill workout routine exercise instructions/steps that are easy to follow?
According to Consumer Reports, there are a few effective ways to work out on a treadmill, including preset interval training programs. “There are often a variety of interval runs, which alternate between full-on intense pace and recovery pace and are considered an efficient and quick way to get fit,” says Consumer Reports.
How do I contact Bowflex customer service in case of machine failure and repairs?
Bowflex customer service is extremely reliable and helpful. If you ever have trouble with your machine, simply contact the Nautilus customer service team by calling 1(800)605-3369.
Where can one get a decent Bowflex treadmill manual? Can I have it downloaded online?
All Bowflex treadmill manuals can be accessed online. Your machine will come with a user manual contained within the box, but if you lose the physical copy, just do a quick Google search for your specific model’s user manual to download it online.
Where is the best place to buy Bowflex treadmill replacement parts?
Amazon is the best place to purchase your new Bowflex treadmill, as well as any replacement parts you may need. It's a good idea to first check with the Nautilus customer service team to confirm the parts you need, but once that is done, you can purchase any Bowflex products on Amazon.
Conclusion
Maybe you’re still on the fence about which Bowflex machine to choose, but there’s no doubt about the fact that any Bowflex cardio machine will help you get into shape. When it comes to burning calories, losing weight, and enhancing cardio health, Bowflex is a name that can be trusted.