Alan - This is all you need - http://www.fitnessanywhere.com/. Put a bar and some plates in your garage to do some dead lifts and then you would be all set and will have saved $2000.
If you remember Fitnesscoach, she was a big proponent of the Bowflex. Here is a link to an article she wrote about it.
http://www.physicalmind.com/bowflex.html
I think it is like most fitness equipment. If you will use it, it is worth it.
Bernie
Get yourself a Billy Blanks Tae Bo video for $20 and exercise in front of the TV. Add another $20 for an exercise matt. Just watch the pounds roll off your waist.
All kidding aside, I have a home gym from Home Fitness. I have a low ceiling and wanted something compact. I bought the cheapest one they have at around $400 plus the stack. It was on sale at the time, so it was really cheap and I think shipping was free. I have been completely happy with it as it provides all the weight that I want.
I don’t have a model number, but I think this is the one I bought (shown without the weight stack and other available accessories).
I’m a big free weights type of guy, and feel that barbell squats are IT when it comes t strength training.
But, here are some things I have been using for some really good workouts.
Perfect pull-up:
Perfect Push-Up:
P90X:
I use adjustable dumbbells that go up to 65 pounds. Bought em for about $65.
I previously owned a BodySolid (Home Fitnness) power rack and smith Machine with high/low pulleys, but it’s a space hog compared to what else I’ve listed in this thread, and the expense is much greater.
I decided to train at home, because the time it takes to get everything ready and get to the gym and get started … well, I could have half the workout done by then.
I previously had a Soloflex, do you remember that? It was great for me. I gave it to a buddy when I moved. I have a gym membership now but occasionally look on Craigslist for Bowflex items because I’d still like a home gym. Check it out. You can find all sorts of deals now as people are selling everything they have just to eat.
I have a ten year old NordicFlex unit in my basement which I’m planning to replace with the latest BowFlex. I’ve never liked free weights and going to a gym is a hassle.
Anyone have any thoughts/experience with the Bowflex Revolution XP Home Gym? Any other suggestions for a similar piece of equipment where space is limited?
The bowflex is mostly a marketing phenomenon thats why you never see it at the local gym or on any fitness outlet sales floors. If you have tried it before hand you probably would not be interested. It is awkward in design and it is cumbersome to keep flipping arounf the porwer bands. Also, the warranty is not that great especially since the Blwflex is made largely of plastic. It is a limited warranty …be sure to read the fine print if you decide to buy one.
Also, the money you will spend on the bowlex you can do MUCH better by buying a traditional home gym such as the body solid weight stack system that is bictured above in this thread. Save yourself a bundle and stay away from the bowflex!
x2 on the Perfect Pushup. Bought a set on a whim when I saw them on sale for $20 and love them.
If you buy one, look on craigslist. there are usually tons of the for sale (and lightly used) on the cheap.
Not sure what you are talking about. The Bowflex uses power rods (at least mine does) that take seconds to swap, except that I usually do 3 or 4 exercises with the same settings. Mostly plastic? It’s almost all steel and weighs about 300 lbs. AS was stated above, if you use it regularly it works great.
It appears the Revolution uses discs not rods but wow that’s $1800 more than my Extreme cost. I’m looking hard at the P90X program but not sure if I have the time every day, my wife says no way i would stick to it.
After years of trying various equipment, I have found that the simplest is the best. I have a set of Powerblock adj. dumbells, a bench, a pull up bar and some of those perfect pushup thingies. Takes up very little space and gets me all the workout I need.
End of the world is nigh. We agree on something.
Soon you will see the see the wonderfulness of zinfandel. Actually, economic conditions have forced me to Gallo Hearty Burgundy.
Not sure what you are talking about. The Bowflex uses power rods (at least mine does) that take seconds to swap, except that I usually do 3 or 4 exercises with the same settings. Mostly plastic? It’s almost all steel and weighs about 300 lbs. AS was stated above, if you use it regularly it works great.
It appears the Revolution uses discs not rods but wow that’s $1800 more than my Extreme cost. I’m looking hard at the P90X program but not sure if I have the time every day, my wife says no way i would stick to it.
The Revolution does not use power rods. It uses spiraflex plates that have internal “springs” in them. They are a little awkward and difficult to see the numbers on them. They are not as easy to change as the commercial shows.
I have been really curious about the Revolution. However, I finally got to see one in person. Not impressed. The spiraflex just does not feel “natural.” Overall, it feels odd.
I have the Parabody GS-4. It is ok, but, I want a cable-based system that allows more range of motion. I am looking at and may be purchasing the Hoist V6 Personal Pulley Gym this week.
