The people who market Bowflex exercise machines claim that they are the home equivalent of a complete gym workout in one small package. But how much space do they really take up? And can you get acceptable training from them? The truth is, you can get a great gym-quality workout with a Bowflex machine. And they don’t take up a lot of space (especially when not in use).
Each Bowflex model is different in its actual dimensions. Therefore, the space requirement depends on the machine you choose. However, most Bowflex machines come on wheels and fold flat for easy rolling and storage. So space really isn’t an issue, even in smaller apartments. Just tuck away your Bowflex when you’re not using it. This helps keep your workout space free for other activities when it’s not being used for exercise.
Here’s a breakdown by Bowflex model of the space you’ll need, both open for exercise and folded down for storage:
Bowflex sports exercise machine
This one has a training footprint that is about nine feet deep and almost seven feet wide. It stretches about seven and a half feet in height. The folded footprint measures fifty-two inches long by thirty-eight inches wide. The total training space needed is about ten feet by nine feet, the size of a small bedroom.
The Bowflex Xtreme XTLU Fitness Trainer
This is a smaller fitness trainer than the Bowflex Sport. It has a training area that is seven feet by six feet. While designed for a smaller area, this Bowflex does not have the option to fold up and requires a permanent dedicated room in your home. It features a more upright training style than the Bowflex Sport and comes with leg extensions and leg curl attachments.
Bowflex Xtreme XLU Exercise Machine
This is a smaller version of the Xtreme XTLU discussed above. It requires a training area that is five feet by six feet.
So what is the difference between Xtreme XLU and Xtreme XTLU?
You can perform about sixty different exercises on the XLU. In the XTLU you have more than sixty-five different exercise options. In addition, it comes with a leg curl and leg extension attachment. Attachments require more floor space, so the XTLU is about two feet longer than the XLU. Other than that, these machines are very similar.
The Bowflex Ultimate XTLU Total Gym Training System
If you have enough space, you may want to consider the largest of the Bowflex fitness trainers. It has a training area that is seven feet by nine feet. Although it requires quite a bit of space, it folds up and slides into a closet or other area when your workout is done. The XTLU is the largest and most effective total gym system Bowflex makes. You can perform over ninety exercises on it and it comes with a number of accessories that need ample space to be used properly.
Each Bowflex model can be purchased with or without accessories that customize your size and exercise capabilities. When shopping, be careful to choose the right combination of machine and accessories to fit the space you have available.
Measure the dimensions of the room in which you will be using your fitness trainer, and then check the Bowflex website for the exact dimensions of each machine you are interested in purchasing. This ensures that the fitness trainer you purchase will work in the space you have available. There is nothing worse than receiving your new exercise machine, only to find out that it doesn’t fit and must be returned.