Working out is a great way to stay in shape and improve your overall health. However, finding the time to go to the gym can be difficult, and sometimes it is just not possible. That is why many people choose to invest in home gym equipment.
You’ve probably heard of the Bowflex Max Trainer and the elliptical, but do you know which one is better? In this blog post, we’re going to compare the two machines and help you decide which one is right for you. Keep reading to learn more!
Home Gym Equipment
Home gym equipment has become more and more popular due to the pandemic. People are looking for ways to stay in shape without having to go to the gym.
Another reason that home gym equipment has gained steam over the last couple of years is that it is more affordable than ever before. You can find some really great machines for a fraction of the price that you would pay at a traditional gym.
Cardio Gym Equipment
Home gym equipment comes in all shapes and sizes, and it can be challenging to decide which type of equipment is right for you. If you are looking for an entire body workout machine, you may be wondering if a Bowflex max trainer or an elliptical is right for you.
Here is a comparison of the two types of machines to help you decide which one is right for you.
Bowflex Max Trainer
The Bowflex Max Trainer is a newer piece of technology on the market popularized by Bowflex. It is a compact, easy-to-use machine that delivers a full-body workout. It is a cross between an elliptical trainer and a stair climber, and it is an excellent option for people looking for high-intensity workouts. The max trainer has two handlebars that you can grip while working out, and it also has pedals that you can use to push yourself along.
The main benefit of the max trainer is that it is a very effective workout machine. It provides a low-impact workout that is easy on your joints, and it is a great way to burn calories and tone your muscles. The max trainer is also a very compact machine, perfect for small apartments or homes.
Another benefit of the max trainer is that it is very easy to use. The machine has a digital display that shows you how many calories you are burning and your heart rate, and it also has pre-programmed workouts that you can follow.
The main downside of the max trainer is that it is a bit pricey. The machine can cost upwards of $1000, which is more than most ellipticals. Additionally, the max trainer is not as versatile as an elliptical, so it may not be the best choice for people who are looking for a machine that can provide a full-body workout.
Elliptical Trainer
The elliptical is another type of home gym equipment popular among people looking for a full-body workout. Ellipticals are similar to treadmills, but they also provide an easy, low-impact workout. Ellipticals also have handlebars that you can grip when working out and pedals to push yourself along.
The main benefit of ellipticals is that they provide a lower and upper body workout without putting too much strain on your joints. Ellipticals are also very compact and easy to store, perfect for small apartments or homes. Additionally, many ellipticals come with digital displays that show you how many calories you are burning and your heart rate.
Another benefit of ellipticals is that they are relatively affordable. You can find a good quality elliptical for around $500, which is less than the max trainer.
The main downside of ellipticals is that they can be challenging to use. The machine can be difficult to get used to its mechanical gait, and it can take some time to learn how to use all of the features. Additionally, depending on which ellipticals you purchase, they can be very large and bulky, making them difficult to move around.
Bowflex Max Trainer Vs Elliptical Comparison:
The Bowflex Max Trainer is an excellent option for those looking for a workout that will challenge them and help them see results quickly. However, there are some advantages and disadvantages that come along with this type of trainer. Here are some things to consider before you make your purchase:
Resistance Levels:
The Bowflex Max Trainer has 8 to 20 resistance levels (depending on which unit is purchased). This means that you can start at a lower level and gradually increase the intensity of your workout as you get stronger. The elliptical, on the other hand, only has eight levels of resistance.
Bowflex claims that the Max Trainer can burn up to 2.5 times more calories than an elliptical in the same amount of time. An elliptical is a low-impact machine that doesn’t provide much resistance to your muscles. The Max Trainer, however, can give you a high-intensity workout that will help you burn more calories and tone your muscles.
Workout Programs:
The Bowflex Max Trainer comes with 2-11 different workout programs, depending on the model. This gives you the ability to change up your routine and target different body areas. On the other hand, the elliptical only comes with two or three workout programs. Depending on your goals or aims of using these machines this could have an impact on which machine you choose.
So, if you are looking for a more diverse workout regimen, the Max Trainer is for you.
Pedals:
The Bowflex Trainers have pedals designed to provide a more natural range of motion. This means that you can get a better workout for your lower body. On the other hand, the elliptical has pedals that are fixed in place. This choice will ultimately come down to personal preference
Handles:
Safety is paramount when working out, especially if you are using a machine. The Bowflex Max Trainer comes with handles that are designed to give you a better grip. These handles are also adjustable.
So, if you are taller or shorter than average, you can still use the machine safely. The elliptical doesn’t have adjustable handles.
App Monitoring:
Both the Bowflex Max Trainer and some ellipticals come with an app. App allows you to track your progress and see your results. However, the Max Trainer JRNY app is very comprehensive compared to most fitness tracking applications. So, depending on the level of feedback you are needing or wanting from your workouts, monitoring your progress will be easier with the Max Trainer.
Some models of both of these workout machines don’t come with an app. The touch screen models of Max Trainer or elliptical machine come with an app. If you are looking for an app, make sure to check if the model you are interested in has one.
Water Bottle holder:
Dehydration is a real issue when working out. It’s essential to drink water to stay hydrated and avoid cramps or other issues. The Bowflex Max comes with a water bottle holder. This feature ensures that you can stay hydrated during your workout.
Additionally, most models of ellipticals also come with a water bottle holder. However, not all models do. Both ellipticals and the Max Trainer are a good option if you want a machine with a water bottle holder.
Stabilizers:
The Bowflex Max Trainer comes with stabilizers. This means that the machine will be less likely to tip over if you use it on an uneven surface. The base of the elliptical is also designed to be stable. However, the machine itself is not as heavy as the Max Trainer. So, for a more durable machine, choose the Max Trainer.
This also depends on which elliptical you pick as some are very lightweight.
Storage:
The Bowflex Max Trainer is designed to be stored in a small space. It has a foldable design that makes it easy to store away. The elliptical, on the other hand, is not as easy to store away. It is larger and bulkier than the Max Trainer. So, for
Size:
The Bowflex Max Trainer is larger than the elliptical. This means that it will take up more space in your home. If you have a small house or a machine that you can store away easily, the elliptical would be the better option.
It is always wise to ensure you have taken measurements of your workout area prior to making a decision on which equipment would best suit your needs.
Other Features:
Some Bowflex Max Trainer models and ellipticals come with other features. These features can include Bluetooth connectivity, a fan, and speakers. For example, Bowflex max trainer m3 model doesn’t have a Bluetooth heart rate monitoring feature, but the Bowflex max trainer m8 does. So, if you are looking for a machine with additional features, check what each model has to offer.
Price:
The Bowflex Max Trainer is more expensive than the elliptical. So, if you are on a budget, the elliptical would be the better option. However, the price tag also depends on the features; Bowflex max trainer m7 is more expensive than the Bowflex max trainer m3.
Pros And Cons Of Bowflex Max Trainer And Elliptical:
Bowflex Max Trainer:
Pros:
● More natural range of motion
● Ability to target different muscle groups
● Water bottle holder included.
● Stabilizers for more stability on uneven surfaces
Cons:
● Takes up more space than the elliptical.
● More expensive than the elliptical
Elliptical Machine:
Pros:
● Can be stored away easily
● Less expensive than the Max Trainer
● Some models come with additional features like Bluetooth and a fan.
Cons:
● Fixed pedals don’t provide a natural range of motion for the lower body.
● Omit adjustable handles to target different muscle groups.
● Some models omit a water bottle holder.
● Not as stable as the Max Trainer
Bowflex Max Trainer M8 Review (2022):
Let’s take a look at one of the most popular models of the Bowflex Max Trainer Series, the M8.
If you are looking for a high-quality workout that will give you great results without spending a lot of time in the gym, the M8 is perfect for you. This machine has 11 workout programs to help you target different areas and 20 levels of computer-controlled resistance. You can also sync it with the free Max Trainer app to set, monitor, and track your fitness goals.
The app provides video content from professional trainers to instruct, motivate, and challenge you. The M8 also has a large, easy-to-read display that shows your heart rate, time, calories burned, etc.
This machine is perfect for people looking for a great workout that they can do in their own homes. It is also the best option for those who want to get a workout in without going to the gym.
One of the best features of the M8 is its ability to adapt to your fitness level over time. It does this by learning and setting new targets based on your home workouts. This means that you will constantly be challenged and never get bored with your workout routine.
Key Features
- 300 lb weight limit
- 11 workout programs
- 20 levels of computer-controlled resistance
- Includes Bowflex JRNY, the personalized coaching technology that integrates with your M8 to create daily, custom workouts that automatically adjust time and intensity as your fitness improves.
- $1,899.00
Niceday Elliptical Machine Review (2022):
The Niceday Elliptical Machine is one of the most popular ellipticals on the market. This machine is perfect for people who are looking for a low-impact workout that is easy on the joints. It is also a great choice for people who want to get a workout in without going to the gym.
The Niceday Elliptical Machine has 16 levels of resistance and a large, easy-to-read display that shows your heart rate, time, distance, calories burned, etc. It also has a built-in fan to keep you cool during your workout.
This machine is easy to assemble and comes with a user manual that includes assembly instructions and a workout guide. It is also backed by a one-year warranty.
Additionally, this particular elliptical goes against the grain in areas where other ellipticals may fail. For example, the Niceday Elliptical Machine is supremely stable, allowing a user’s weight to be up to 400 pounds, whereas some of the models of the Bowflex Max Trainer only allow up to 300 pounds.
This machine is a good happy medium (~$600) between lower-level ellipticals that haven’t been reviewed by enough users and the expensive Bowflex Max Trainer products. This choice would be ideal for those who economically aren’t able to spend as much on a piece of home workout gym equipment.
The Niceday Elliptical Machine is a great choice for people looking for an elliptical that is easy to use, compact, and affordable.
Key Features
- 400 lb weight limit
- 16 levels of magnetic resistance
- 15.5″ comfortable strides
- Fit for 4’9″ to 6’2″ people
- Pulse monitor
- Transportation wheels
- 106 lbs
- $599.00
How to Choose the Right Exercise Equipment for You
Now that you know the differences between the Bowflex Max Trainer and an elliptical, it’s time to decide which one is right for you. Here are a few factors to consider when making your decision:
● Your fitness goals: If you are looking for a full-body workout, the Max Trainer is the better choice. If you are looking for a low-impact workout that is easy on the joints, the elliptical is the better choice.
● Your budget: The Max Trainer is more expensive than the elliptical. If you are on a budget, the elliptical is the better choice.
● The space in your home: The Max Trainer is larger and takes up more space than the elliptical. If you have limited space in your home, the elliptical is the better choice.
Now that you know the differences between the Bowflex Max Trainer and an elliptical, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you. Consider your fitness goals, budget, and the space in your home to decide which machine is best for you.