The bowflex xtreme 2 is basically an upgraded and slightly improved version of the regular bowflex xtreme. Let's take a look at this new bowflex to see if it's any better than before or if it's even any better than the much cheaper alternatives.
One thing you have to keep in mind is that most bowflex models are very expensive when compared to the much cheaper competition. So is this bowflex model any different or is it just another one in a long line of good but overpriced home gyms?
The bowflex xtreme 2 has been improved over earlier versions. You can adjust the lat pull-down tower to a couple of different positions.
This updated version of the bowflex extreme also has a longer squat rack or frame that provides up to 4 different adjustable positions.
It is possible to change the exercises you're doing a lot quicker and easier than you were previously able to. There are actually no cable changes that are needed to be done between your exercises.
With all of this, and the other features mentioned below, you are able to perform over 75 different exercises, which is a lot more than almost every other type of home gym set-up out there.
Some additional features of the bowflex extreme 2 include:
As mentioned above, with this version of the bowflex extreme you can actually perform over 75 different resistance exercises.
The ability to be able to properly and completely work all of the muscle groups and individual muscles in your body can't be overlooked.
The amount of resistance on the bowflex xtreme 2 comes standard at 210 pounds. It is upgradeable to 310 or 410 pounds. Most people will find that they need the upgrade all the way to the 410-pound level.
For a lot of the exercises 210 pounds will do, but for the leg exercises, back exercises and even some chest exercises a lot of people (especially those wanting to add lean muscle) will find that it's not nearly enough.
210 pounds may sound like a lot of weight, but when it's on a machine (and not free weights) it's actually not much resistance.
The lat tower on the bowflex extreme 2 has 2 adjustable positions. It also comes with an angled lat bar; which makes pull-downs easier on the wrists.
Although bowflex claims that you can build both back and shoulder muscles quickly with this new lat tower - you'll actually just work your back!
Your shoulder muscles will only get worked a very minor amount with a pull-down tower - not enough to make a difference. There are better exercises you can do on the bowflex xtreme 2 that will work your shoulders.
The updated bowflex xtreme 2 is equipped with lower pulleys that are adjustable to 4 different positions. It's in this section of the bowflex xtreme 2 where you would do your squats and other exercises to build your glutes, hamstrings and quads.
This is where you'll really need the upgrade of heavier weight / more resistance, as mentioned above. This is probably the only area that the bowflex xtreme 2 is poor.
I've never liked the squat set-up at all (on any home gym), and strongly believe that the only way to properly work your legs is with free weights.
The leg extension attachment is just like one you'd find in any gym. Leg extensions are useful but secondary to other leg exercises such as squats, as far as effectiveness goes.
One good advantage the bowflex extreme 2 has over a lot of it's competition is the fact that you don't have to waste time changing cables between your exercises and different exercise stations
The quick-release, cushioned seat is adjustable and quite comfortable.
The contoured, extra wide seat back for doing lat pull-down exercises adds extra stability and support.
The over-all construction of the bowflex extreme 2 is fairly good and is reinforced in the base and throughout the whole set-up for maximum stability.
The over-all size of the bowflex extreme 2 is relatively small, so it will fit in most smaller more confined spaces.
The warranty is really good with the bowflex extreme 2. It's a 7-year limited warranty on materials & workmanship. That's as good as any commercial equipment. This shows that it is truly built to last.
The bowflex extreme 2 is easy to assemble for most people. Some people however will find that a second set of hands can help a great deal.
Everything comes in numbered boxes with all of the different pieces properly marked to make them much easier to identify when putting together. It will probably take you a couple of hours to put together.
Over-all the bowflex extreme 2 is a good piece of exercise equipment. As long as you use it properly and consistently, you'll be able to reach most of your goals.
The bowflex extreme 2, or any exercise equipment you use for that matter, is only part of the puzzle. You need to be able to effectively use
your bowflex xtreme 2 or alternative home gym equipment
properly and consistently to reach your goals.
Do you currently, or have you ever, used any model of bowflex exercise equipment? What has been your experience with bowflex equipment? What do you like the best about it? Was it easy to set up and use? How often do you use it and what results are you seeing? Tell us why you feel this way.
Or do you have some good information that we may have missed? Share your story and let others know!
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Bowflex Power Pro XTLU
You'll find this bowfles model used, for a big price. I have the decked out model, soon after, I sold the squat setup, for $250 on ebay, it was useless ...
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