Bowflex Max Trainer M8 – Review

The Max Trainer series from Bowflex is a complete redesign of an elliptical, as they boast a completely different configuration. The Max Trainer M8 has an upright orientation, which is essentially a marriage between a traditional elliptical and a stair climber. The workouts on this machine might be short, but they are very effective when it comes to muscle toning and calories burned.

The Workout Experience

You will find a total of 20 resistance levels on the Bowflex Max Trainer M8, which means there is an extensive range of challenge and difficulty to be found. It is more than enough for beginners and even the most advanced fitness enthusiast will be able to enjoy it.

Another major addition is the Bowflex JRNY app that has been developed on an artificial intelligence platform. When you are working out, it will do an automatic assessment and suggest you the next level according to your fitness goals. The JRNY program comes with both pre-programmed and live classes, along with real-time coaching. You can also enjoy alternative entertainment during exercise through the app because it has partnered with Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu and Disney.

Footprint and Portability

In terms of footprint, you will find that the Bowflex Max Trainer M8 is relatively small in size and does not require a huge space due to its upright orientation. But, you want to make sure it is in a room with a high ceiling. It weighs about 140 pounds, which means it is on the heavier side. It also comes with a weight capacity of 300 pounds, which is quite reasonable.

However, the good news is that it is also portable, even if it might require two people to move it. There are transport rollers on the elliptical that you can use for this purpose.

Ergonomics

The sports performance racing pedals on the Bowflex Max Trainer M8 have been designed to be aerodynamic and they offer your feet a nice and wide area. The pedal design has been made to accommodate feet of different sizes.

Another good thing about the pedals is that they come with rubber dots, which ensure you stay in place when they come in contact with the bottom of your feet. It also has multi-grip handles that are very comfortable and you can use them for a long workout without hurting your hands.

Technology and other Features

There is a dual mode LCD display that can be found on the Bowflex Max Trainer M8, but you have to have a power source to use it. It shows you relevant data related to your workout activity. There are also built-in contact heart rate sensors that can be used for checking your heart rate. A chest strap model monitor is also compatible with this elliptical, if you have one.

It comes with a water bottle holder and is Bluetooth-enabled. There is a USB charging port for plugging in your smartphone or tablet. There are also 11 workout programs.