by James on August 8, 2011
I’m sure you have seen Bowflex commercials on TV with their well toned and defined muscles now and then. One of the better known and well performed all-in-one resistance machines is the Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym.
Bowflex PR3000
Wide Range of Exercises
With the three levels of hand grips – high, medium and low – you can get a really wide range of workouts for different types of muscle groups just with just this home gym alone. You can be assured that you can replicate almost all free weights training moves with smooth motions of the pulleys, and also remove the seat so that you can have optimal space for any standing exercises.
Bowflex advertises the Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym as a cable change-free machine, and for most part, it is. The only exception is moving from an exercise like a bench press, which uses the low leveled hand grips, to a standing leg exercise. For this, you will need to detach and reattach some of the parts, namely the hand grips and leg attachments. It can be troublesome especially when you want to keep your workout momentum and rhythm. A tip: plan your routine so that you can minimize any changes on the structure of the machine.
The change in resistance feels good; gradual and good for your joints as they adapt and strengthen. The only downside is that the increase of the resistance are often not steady throughout your repetitions – which means, you’re probably not getting the maximum benefits of your total workout.
Setting it Up
I must say, the assembly manual is not exactly easy to follow. With all the components of the machine, setting up the Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym can be a bit intimidating. However, if you are mechanically inclined and patient in following instructions and inspecting the drawings, it should come easy for you. If you are not the DIY kind, I suggest that you get someone who is more capable.
The Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym is a great machine for those who have more ‘fragile’ flooring. One user said that he has tiled floors and the floor have not shown any wear and tear at all thanks to the rubber feet that cushions the metal off the floor. It also makes moving around the machine an easier task (I must warn you that it is genuinely heavy).
Good for Everyone
Performance means nothing if the machine cannot be used by a lot of people. This Bowflex machine is great because you can adjust almost everything for very different sized people. For example, if you are someone who looks like you should play for the NBA, you can share this with your partner, family members or flatmates whom are not as tall as you simply by just adjusting the hand grip levels. Also, if you are on the heavier side, don’t worry about the machine crashing – it has helped someone who was 300lbs loose the weight and kept it off.
With the Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym, you will not need to get a new home gym once you have strengthened and used to the resistance it gives. The basic home gym will provide you with 210lbs of power rods which is good if you have just started working out. As you increase your fitness level and you want to bulk up, you can bring your Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym with you by getting the 310lbs and 410lbs upgrades.
Overall, I think that that the Bowflex PR3000 is a great home gym for those who are looking for to start a commitment with their body. You get the most of your money with the range of exercises that you can do with it. Also it can be the best home gym for the whole family, even if dad and son are of different level and build!
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by James on August 7, 2011
Tired of doing too much exercises on too many machines because you want to do your cadio and gain muscle mass? Well, with Bowflex PR1000 you can kill two birds with one stone! The Bowflex PR1000 was designed to help you do a whole body workout (core, arms, back, chest, shoulder, and legs!) that will strengthen your muscles and at the same time give your heart a serious workout!
The major reason that it is so popular is that because it is compact as to compare to its other siblings. The machine will only take 100” x 76” of your space area and can be stored virtually almost every where in your home.
Bowflex PR1000
How Good is the Bowflex PR1000?
Personally, when I look at home gym machines, I will look for something that can assists me in doing all the exercises that I want or need. The Bowflex PR1000 gives me just that; the ability to target all the major muscle building movements. From bench press to seated lat rows, I can switch to any leg exercises such as calf raise and leg press in just a matter of seconds. You can do 30 different exercises that will train your body so that your muscles will be stronger, especially the heart!
Bowflex uses its patented power rods technology for most of its home gym machines, including this baby. I like that it acts similarly like free weights but without the risk of any injuries to your joints! The power rods can provide you with a maximum of 210lbs. of resistance on individual exercises. With this technology, Bowflex also claims that it will help you build your muscles faster!
I also feel that with the patented power rods, the Bowflex PR1000 is a safer option to free weights, despite its shortcomings to which I will tell you more afterwards. The reason some people workout at home is that they don’t have time to go to the gym or prefer to workout in solidarity. With this, you can ensure that you will have a safe workout. There will definitely be no risk of having weights slipping out of your hand and injure you, or maybe a wandering child, in its fall. You will also need not a spotter just in case the weights prove to be heavy for you to lift or the possibility of getting cramps mid-way of your exercise.
Bowflex PR1000 Home Gym
Is 210lbs Enough?
The only possible downside of this home gym is that it ONLY supports a maximum weight of 210lbs. and can not be upgraded to a higher level. However, this may only pose for people who have already advanced to a higher level of strength than most of us. The maximum 210lbs. should be more than enough for us mere mortals.
For some of you that started exercising with this machine with almost 0lbs. of resistance and made it through to its maximum weight resistance, you may feel obligated to stay faithful to your Bowflex PR1000 despite the fact you want to push yourself more. Fret not! Make the most out of the existing weight resistance by doing your negative reps at a slower pace to help you build more muscle at a quicker rate.
You can right now get the Bowflex PR1000 for 41% off its retail price of $799 at Amazon! That is a really huge saving over most top retailers. Plus, with a 60-day warranty and a tonne of positive feedback, you will know that you will get the full amount of benefit of what you have spent. So, what are you waiting for?
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by James on July 25, 2011
I’d consider this a home gym despite its simplicity because of the range of workouts it offers. Unlike other workout stations, the Pro Fit Iron Gym Total Upper Body Workout Bar is ideal for upper body workouts, particularly chin-ups, push-ups, and pull-ups. You can also adjust the grip positions for neutral, narrow, or wide grip. This piece of equipment also boasts of easy assemble: it installs in seconds!
Pro Fit Iron Gym Total Upper Body Workout Bar
Here are a few things I like about this great equipment:
1. Best choice for fuss-free upper body workout
This equipment takes up very little space; almost negligible if compared to other workout stations! In fact, it hangs on doorway conveniently and can be placed on floor for push-ups. Despite its simple design, it doesn’t lack stability and doesn’t feel flimsy.
2. Very easy to assemble and store
Due to its small structure and design, it’s really easy to store this power tool bar. One of the most convenient home gym designs; this equipment exudes versatility and flexibility.
3. Not easily worn out despite extensive use
I’ve used this equipment for many years now (it sits on my door frame neatly) and it hasn’t shown signs of wear and tear. Good piece of equipment indeed. It’s a worthwhile investment for thorough upper body workout.
The only disadvantage is that it only works for your upper body. You’ll need a separate machine for lower body workout.
B. George bought this tool from Amazon and was pleased with it:
“I was initially apprehensive about the quality of this and also whether this would cause any damage to my door frame but so far it has been really good”
So, wait no longer and buy this Pro Fit Iron Gym Total Upper Body Workout Bar from Amazon for only $26.85. you’ll get toned upper body to show off in no time.
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by James on July 23, 2011
Tired of trying gym after gym, and getting out of the routine too easily after a while? Regardless of your reasons to cancel your gym membership, be it the significant distance from your house/ work or there’s just too many macho body builders type making you uncomfortable and intimidated, it may payoff if you would put away some cash for the Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym.
Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym
First things first – assembly
If you have some free space in your home and are considering for a home gym, the 80lbs. Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym would be the one if you are looking for something that is fairly easy to put together. Reviewers have said that the instructions that came in the box were not very helpful and they found it difficult to follow. However, if you are an experienced DIY-er, you might have an advantage because it only takes common sense to pull it together. If you are not, well, there are some websites that makes assembly much clearer.
The home gym machine is built with the word “sturdy” in mind – no matter how much you weigh, it will never budge an inch during a workout. Of course, it is no eye candy with its simple design and black matte finish.
Full body workout
With the Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym, you will get a wide range of exercises with the sliding bend and resistance bands. The machine itself uses your own body weight as the total amount of resistance with each exercise. To push yourself further, you can add up to 50lbs. to the resistance to the four adjustable power bands that allows you to increase weight resistance beyond your body weight.
The home gym machine allows you to practice a wide range of exercises that helps you increase your muscle strength and flexibility. You can achieve these improvements on your body with the unrestricted cable and pulley system that allow you greater versatility and range of motion of up to 50 different exercises. The system uses your body weight as the resistance level for each exercise.
You can always increase the resistance beyond your body weight by using the four power bands. 50lbs. of resistance will be added to your exercise when all four are used at the same time. You can also increase and decrease the intensity of your exercise by adjusting the inclination of the glide board to seven incline options.
Your Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym comes with a guide on the types of exercises you can do with the machine. However, this only covers the basic exercises. This is perfect for a beginner who wants to learn which exercises are targeted to the different muscle groups and how to perform them properly. If you find them insufficient for you, do a search on Google for more exercises and I assure you that your effort will pay off.
Fold it when you are done!
Do keep in mind that the Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym is not a small piece of fitness equipment. At about six feet in length, two feet wide and four feet in height, you can fold it down by taking the foot rest and handle bars off. Although you can slide it under the bed or roll it into a spacious closet, I would recommend that you reserve a special space for your home gym so that you don’t fall out of your routine.
With over 100 Amazon reviewers awarding the Weider Total Body Works 5000 Gym with five-stars, you will not go wrong buying this. Make the right choice of buying this home gym machine for a better you at a real steal on Amazon!
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by James on July 22, 2011
Beginners will appreciate the Total Gym 1100 because it’s a machine that helps you tone your body and strengthen your muscles. Weighing only 54lbs, this machine is designed to be compact and efficient. It comes with ergonomic glide board and body weight is balanced against gravity for smooth resistance. Given a choice, I would’ve bought this machine when I first started working out. Great features indeed.
Total Gym 1100
Here are 2 main points about this workout station:
1. Get complete upper body, lower body, and abdominal workout
This machine understands that you need to build resistance for effective workout. For that, it has an incline boost feature that allows you to adjust the inclination to steeper degrees as you improve your conditioning and strength.
2. Compact design and very easy to store
Of course, storing any big machine requires effort. What I’m emphasizing here is that due to its lighter weight and compact design, it’s easier to store. You only need to fold away for easy storage in closet of beneath furniture.
3. Admirable durability and lasts long with due care
Like all workout machines, you need to care for it by making routine checks and replacing old/worn-out parts. Comparatively, this machine is quite durable and good for long term use. You’ll find that it doesn’t break down easily and that’s a great feature.
Charles J Martin (verified Amazon buyer) reviewed Total Gym 1100:
“Great item. Both my wife and I use this. We have it in the guest room and when anyone comes to stay it is really easy to fold up and move out of the way.”
You can check this Total Gym 1100 out in your local store and buy from Amazon afterwards because it’s for sale for only $170; a bargain indeed!
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by James on July 21, 2011
Most home gyms are big and heavy which cause small house owners shy away from the idea of getting a unit for their home. However, with the Body Solid EXM1500S fitness enthusiasts who live in small, high-rise apartments and condos can now have the option to go through their fitness routines at home.
Body Solid EXM1500S Single Stack Home Gym
I live in a small space; can I have this inside my home?
Simply put, yes! The Body Solid EXM1500S is fairly compact as compared to the other available home gym models in the market. I love the fact that the home gym machine uses a single stack design that doesn’t involve any clean up of the heavy plates after you finished your routine. Although it is smaller as compared to the others, it is just as versatile, giving you a viable reason to replace your thousands of dollar health club memberships with this beauty. However, the compact size may prove to be a disadvantage for people who are bigger than average.
Due to these very reasons, I chose this home gym machine as my very first. My decision was further strengthen after I saw the warranty coverage the manufacturer offered. Body Solid’s warranty policy is simply offers the best warranty coverage: “In-Home Lifetime Warranty on Everything. Forever. Period.”
Does it provide a total body work out?
Of course it does! Do not be fooled by its compactness and old school design. With the right exercises, the Body Solid EXM1500S will help you strengthen, build and tone every major muscle groups. Stacked with 160lbs. of weights, you can increase or decrease your weight resistance by adjusting the weight in 10lbs. increments. To change the resistance level, all you need to do is insert the safety pin at the desired level. Having the pulley and cable system gives me versatility of motions. I can target every muscle with the lat bar, straight bar and utility strap at every angle and intensity levels possible.
An excellent illustrated poster came in the box along with the Body Solid EXM1500S. The poster illustrates how to perform all the legs, arms, chest, and back exercises. A friend owns the same machine and he outgrew the 160lbs. in no time. If you think you need to chuck the machine out after that, think again. You can always upgrade the weights stack by contacting Body Solid to get up to 210lbs. of weight resistance!
Is it safe to lift weights by yourself with this machine?
I love having the Body Solid EXM1500S at home because I love working out by myself, according to my schedule. I do suggest that you study the machine, the proper form of the exercises and recognize your own limits to safely exercise on your own. When I first started working out using a home gym, I was concerned that without a personal trainer, I would injure myself during more intense exercises. However, with the pulley and cable system of this home gym machine, I can be assured that my routine can be safely done no matter how intense it is.
The guiding rod and weights stack also does not bump and grind with each other. Other than producing an annoying sound, it could also cause you to lose grip of the bar or straps which can distract and cause you to lose your momentum.
Speaking of which, the base of the frame is made into perfection. Your Body Solid EXM1500S will not shake and wobble while you do your routines. You do not need to worry about it toppling over and injure you.
The Body Solid EXM1500S Single Stack Home Gym comes highly recommended by myself, and many other users! You’ll get great value for the price you’re paying for this machine in terms of your health and security well-building.
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by James on July 20, 2011
Bowflex is known for making the best fitness equipments available in the market. What I like the most about their home gyms is that they draw their resistance from its cable pulley systems. The Bowflex Blaze is one of those great machines in Bowflex and is a perfect replacement for the Bowflex Sport, which is now discontinued by the manufacturer.
Bowflex Blaze Home Gym
What’s so special about it?
The best thing about the Bowflex Blaze is that it uses power rods instead of wrought iron as its source of weight resistance. Instead of inserting a pin into the amount of weight you intend to lift, all you need to do is connect the cables to the ends of the power rods. Simple is it not? Plus, it is definitely much safer to have in a home where you have curious toddlers exploring around.
This baby will deliver a maximum of 210lbs. of resistance and a minimum of 5lbs. with its power rod, cable pulley system. So you see, no matter what your fitness level is, the Bowflex Blaze is usable by you. And when you outgrow the available 210lbs. you can get an upgrade kit from Bowflex that will bring your total resistance weight to up to 310lbs. or 410lbs. for only $99 each and are quick and simple to install. Here’s a tip; you can get to 410lbs. without first buying the 310lbs. upgrade so that this way, you can save some money!
Something special about the Bowflex Blaze is that it has a lat tower because most Bowflex machines do not have this fixture. For me, it is most definitely a must have piece of accessory for stand up back chest and shoulder exercise. Combine this with the leg curl extension, you will get a full body workout that ensures affective workouts that are easy to perform and comfortable thanks to the padded T-bar attachment.
Best value for my money
As you may notice, Bowflex produces several great looking fitness equipments to choose from. Among the many, I think that the Bowflex Blaze is a great buy. It is priced at the very low end of the price range of all the fitness equipments.
Despite the fact that this specific model is a stripped down model of Bowflex’s more expensive equipments, it still does offer all the benefits and convenience. As I mentioned, the Bowflex Blaze comes with a lat tower and leg curl extension, that even the most expensive Bowflex models doesn’t have together inside the box. It is definitely a steal once you have compared it with the others!
I also think that this home gym machine is really well made, for the price that you will pay for the Bowflex Blaze. I mean, after a few years your machine will still look and perform awesome! And although some people say they prefer metal workout handles, I personally still prefer plastic because it will not get slippery during any of my workouts.
When buying a fitness machines there is one thing that I despise. I just hate it when the upholstery of a fitness machine get cracks on them. The bench/seat on this home gym machine is made from polyurethane fabric, the same used to upholster seats in cars and trucks, so you know that they are durable to withstand heavy-duty exercising.
All-in-all, the Bowflex Blaze Home Gym comes with my highest recommendation. It is a great buy, and a real value for your money. Despite its lower price tag, it offers the most premium benefits and home gym standard that can be used by everyone in your home.
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by James on July 19, 2011
To get total upper and lower body workout, you’ll need workout equipment that gives you gradual resistance and conditioning training. Total Gym 1700 Club is the best strength training machine as it comes with handy attachments to give you the best workout experience. The Pilates bar helps you develop a range of balance and motion. For versatility, you have the dip bars and press up bars.
Total Gym 1700 Club
Total Gym 1700 Club is a machine not to be missed if you’re looking to build strength and here’s why:
1. It’s very easy to use
Switching from one routine to another is really easy. This is a machine that I feel “grows” with me as I move on to tougher workouts. Over the few months of trying out this machine, my resistance improved and I felt better about myself. Now, not many machines can claim to give you that same feeling. This is an exception.
2. Suitable for folks from all ages
My aunt who is 55 years old is still living an active life and she loves trying out new ideas. When I proposed to her the idea of a home gym, she was instantly hooked. She went shopping and this was, and still is, her favorite machine because it helped her maintain her already toned figure.
3. Gives excellent resistance and strength training workout
The last thing you’ll want is buy a machine only to realize that it doesn’t challenge you enough! There are some gym equipments that make workout seem effortless but fact is, you got to work hard for your workout if you want to see some results. Oh trust me; you’ll definitely see results with the Total Gym 1700 Club.
H. Giersberg (real name) posted a helpful review on Amazon saying:
“I have been using a TotalGym for several years now. My particular model is an 1100. I find the TotalGym to be very easy to use and quick to go from one exercise routine to the next. I think the simplicity of how the TotalGym works compared to other home exercise machines is a big benefit.”
Don’t hesitate any longer! Act now to get this Total Gym 1700 Club from Amazon for only $432. You can also read more product reviews on the site.
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by James on July 18, 2010
Have you ever caught yourself finding an excuse to stay home and not go to gym? Well, I used to do that after my long hours on business trips until I realized that it’ll be great if only I had gym….at HOME! That’s when I decided to build the best home gym. I am a busy executive and image is very important to me. But, I travel often and it just isn’t practical to keep multiple gym memberships. So what did I do? I terminated all but one of my gym memberships and created the best home gym.
Best decision ever!
Here are some tips and guide on how to create the best home gym:
1. Expect to create a small-medium space for the equipments
Of course, it’s best if you have a lot of space to spare or a designated workout room. But even with limited space, you’ll be able to find suitable equipments because there are a variety of compact, multitasking machines to choose from (read my product reviews to see suitable machines). Once you’ve identified the space, take down some measurements to help you choose equipments that’ll fit into the space.
2. Always look up the different choices available
You can either choose a combination of equipments or one that combines different workout functions. In my opinion, a multitasking machine works great because you get all that you need in a single machine. I also like the fact that it almost always takes up less space. If you prefer a combination of equipments, then look out for the best priced equipments because buying multiple workout machines can cost a fortune if you’re not mindful of the price.
3. Try out the equipments to determine their suitability
Similar to a typical gym setting, you’ll want to create an environment for balanced workout in your home gym. For that, you’ll need to have a upper and lower body workout function in the equipment(s) you choose. Besides that, you’ll probably want to consider machines that incorporate resistance training and is easy to use. As for me, I like to buy my equipments from Amazon because they arrive in great shape, almost always easy to assemble and comes with great discounts. What I’ll usually do is to try out the equipments in my local store before buying online. Maybe you can do the same.
4. Create a comfortable workout space
This is especially important because since you’ll be using the space pretty often, it’s important that you make it a place where you’ll want to visit again and again. Having a TV around helps keep you occupied while working out. Or, you can also load your MP3 player with some of your favorite songs and pick up a magazine while exercising. I’m sure you’ll grow to enjoy your workout sessions.
These are 4 of the simplest, most straightforward tips to help you kick start your home gym building plan. Read my blog to find more useful tips like 5 Gym Mistakes to Avoid and Quick Guide to Successful Home Gym Maintenance.
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by James on July 17, 2010
After you’ve created your home gym, you’ll want to keep you equipments in excellent condition. That’s really important because with frequent use, the equipments accumulate dirt and germ. With proper care, your machines will also last longer. No need to spend extra cash changing machines every year; mine lasted close to 5 years before I decided to change a new set. The old machine still works well and it’s in the good hands of my brother in-law now.
How to maintain your home gym equipments in great condition? Here are some quick guides:
1. Check your equipments for signs of wear and tear
A routine check helps you to pinpoint any signs of tear or damage so that you can fix them problem immediately. Machines also come with a lot of bolting and screws so be sure to check those out too. Regardless of your local gym or home gym, don’t work out on the machine knowing that it’s not well assembled and maintained. Always practice safety first.
2. Oil and grease your machine from time to time
Hearing creaky sounds or machines not functioning smoothly? It’s time to oil that machine. Before doing this, you should check the manual to see how frequent you should oil certain parts or if this is even necessary. Take note of parts where gears are located. Usually they tend to jam if not oiled properly.
3. Wipe the equipments with a mild cleaning solution
Sweat and grime on equipments trap bacteria and it’s not good to work out in a dirty machine. What you got to do is use a disinfectant or mild cleaning solution to wipe down the equipments. Don’t forget to clean the floor surface as well; sanitize the machine and its surrounding area to create a germ-free workout space.
4. If your machine has a belt, remember to check on it
Usually, belts are found in treadmills. If your exercise station has a treadmill, you got to check the belt for worn-out signs. The belt should always run in the center. If it’s not, then you got to make some alignment adjustments (refer to manual). Secondly, you risk tripping if the belt isn’t tight enough or if it’s too tight, it’ll wear out quickly. Check and see how well the belt fits in the machine.
5. Protect your machine with power surge protector
Some machines have to be plugged into a power supply. Like all other electrical equipments, you ought to prevent unnecessary power surge from damaging the machine. You can get power surge protectors from you local electrical or hardware store.
These quick guides are meant to help you create a lasting home gym. With simple routine checks and maintenance procedures, you can make your machine last a lot longer and save on repair costs. I make sure that these steps are covered in my personal home gym maintenance. If you’re keen to know more about home gyms, why not check out How to Create the Best Home Gym and 5 Gym Mistakes to Avoid.
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