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When deciding between a Bowflex Max Trainer and an elliptical trainer for your home workout, the choice can be difficult.
Both machines have their own unique benefits and drawbacks that you need to take into account before making your decision.
In this article, I will compare the Bowflex Max Trainer vs Elliptical trainers and help you decide which of these two cardio machines is best for you.
Table of Contents
Bowflex Max Trainer vs Niceday Elliptical Trainer
Currently, the standard Bowflex elliptical trainers I was going to use for this comparison are discontinued.
So instead I will be doing a complete review/comparison of the Bowflex Max Trainer M8 and Niceday Elliptical Machine cross trainer.
Right now there are 6 Bowflex trainers on the Bowflex products website.
Including:
- The Max Trainer M6
- The Bowflex Max Total 16
- The Max Trainer M8
- The Max Trainer M9
- The Bowflex Max Total
- The Max Trainer M3 (Entry level model)
What Is the Bowflex Max Trainer M8?
The Bowflex Max Trainer M8 is a great piece of fitness equipment for any home workout routine.
Its elliptical design is low impact, making it easy on your joints, while the intensity of a stair stepper ensures you’ll get a good workout.
And thanks to its compact design, it will take up much less space in your home.
The backlit display screen and phone/tablet holder keep you entertained and motivated throughout your workout.
While the Bluetooth heart rate monitor ensures you’re always working at your ideal intensity level.
Plus, with 50 virtual exercise routes across the globe available through Bowflex’s JRNY app, you’ll never get bored with your workouts.
With 20 resistance levels and 7 built-in workout programs, the Bowflex Max M8 can be tailored to meet your specific needs and goals.
And the dynamic handles add an extra level of comfort and intensity to your workout.
Bowflex Max Trainer Pros
- Easy to transport
- Compact and ergonomic design
- Provides an intense, low-impact cardio workout
- Easy assembly
- You can create user profiles to get accurate individual feedback from the Max trainer
- The ability to do high-intensity interval training means you can get a great workout in a shorter time
- The dynamic handles and stair stepper style engage both upper-body and lower-body muscles more effectively than typical elliptical machines.
- Great to burn fat while building strength
- Estimates how many calories you’re burning
Bowflex Max Trainer Cons
- The JRNY app features require a paid subscription
- Some users reported squeaking noises due to under lubrication
Bowflex Max Trainer Features
- Bluetooth Capabilities
- Heart rate handle grips and armband
- Bowflex’s JRNY app offers a fitness assessment feature to create daily workout routines tailored to your fitness level (requires membership).
- 7 preset programs
- On-screen Instructor-led videos
- Transport wheels
- Allows up to 4 user profiles
- Trackable workout history for up to 4 users
- 20 resistance levels
- Dual-mode Backlit display screen
- Magnetic media rack to hold a mobile device
- Includes static and dynamic handles
- Combination of a stair climber and elliptical
Bowflex Trainer Specifications
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Color: Black
- Material: Metal
- Dimensions: 47.83″ Width x 30.79″ Depth x 65.2″ Height
- Unisex
- Warranty: 90 days for labor needs, 3 years for parts and frame
- Maximum user weight of 299 lbs
View Live Price for the Bowflex Max
What Is the Niceday Elliptical Trainer?
The Niceday Elliptical Trainer is a great way to get a workout in at home.
It is easy to set up and very quiet, so you can use it any time of the day or night.
It has a 16-pound flywheel for smooth riding and 16 resistance levels, so you can customize your workout.
The digital display screen shows calculations for speed, distance, calories, and heart rate.
This machine is also heavy-duty, so it will last for years. And if you have any questions or problems, the responsive customer service team is happy to help.
Plus, there is a phone holder so you can stay connected while you work out.
Niceday Elliptical Machine Pros
- Does not require an electric source to operate
- Very quiet
- Basic and easy-to-use LCD screen interface
- Delivers almost fully pre-assembled for easy set-up
- Sturdy and lightweight design
- Easy to move around
- Great for weight loss goals
- 16 resistance levels for adjusting the workout to your fitness level
- Heavy flywheel for a smooth ride
- Dynamic handles to engage more muscles in the upper body and lower body
- Provides a low-impact workout
- Grippy pedals so you don’t have to worry about your feet slipping
Niceday Elliptical Machine Cons
- Some users may not like the basic LCD interface
- If you’re assembling it by your self it may take longer than expected
- The screen calculations may be inaccurate
Niceday Elliptical Machine Features
- Anti-slip pedals
- Heart rate handle grips
- 16 LB flywheel
- 16 resistance levels
- Transport wheels
- Dynamic and static handlebars
- Phone holder
- Display monitor
- Floor stabilizers
- Standard Elliptical trainer with cross-training elements
Niceday Elliptical Trainer Specifications
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Color: Orange
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 48″ Length x 25″ Width x 62″ Height
- Unisex
- Warranty: Lifetime service
- Maximum User Weight: 400 lbs
View Live Price for the Niceday
Bowflex Max Trainer Series vs Elliptical Machine Pricing
Bowflex machines are known for being pricier than elliptical machines.
However, they offer a lot more features and benefits that you may not find on other machines.
If you are looking for a top-of-the-line workout machine that will help you get in shape, the Bowflex Max Trainer Series is a great option.
However, if you are on a budget, a standard elliptical trainer may be a better choice.
The biggest difference between the two machines is the price. Bowflex Max Trainers start at around $900 all the way up to $2,800.
While most ellipticals can be found for as little as $500, sometimes less.
Which Machine Is Right for You?
Here’s a look at the two cardio machines to help you decide which one is right for you.
The Bowflex max trainer is a cardio machine that provides a low-impact, full-body workout.
It burns more calories quickly and is ideal for people who want to lose weight or get in shape fast. Not to mention it has impressive high-tech features.
The elliptical, on the other hand, is a low-impact machine that provides a cardiovascular workout. They typically come with more basic features.
It’s a good choice for people who want to get in shape but don’t want to break the bank.
So, which machine is right for you?
The Bowflex max trainer is the way to go if you’re looking for more features.
And want to do high-intensity workouts that burn more calories in a shorter time.
But if you’re looking for a simple, low-impact machine that provides a cardiovascular workout and gets the job done.
And also has a more affordable price, then you may want to go with a traditional elliptical.
Factors To Consider When Buying an Exercise Machine
Resistance Type
When you are looking for cardio equipment, it is important to know the resistance type.
This will help you figure out how hard it will be to use the equipment and if it is a good fit for you.
There are two main types of resistance: air and magnetic.
Air resistance is produced by a fan, while magnetic resistance is created by magnets.
Each type of resistance has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to choose the right one for you.
Air resistance is the most common type of resistance found in elliptical machines. It is created by a fan, which makes it easy to adjust the resistance.
The downside of air resistance is that it can be noisy and it can be hard to keep a consistent resistance level.
Magnetic resistance is less common than air resistance, but it is becoming more popular.
Magnetic resistance is created by magnets, which makes it very quiet. The downside of magnetic resistance is that it can be much more expensive.
Size
When you are buying an elliptical, it is important to think about the size.
You want to make sure that it is the right size for you so that you can be comfortable when you are using it.
Additionally, if you buy an elliptical that is too small, you may find that it is difficult to use and you will not get the full benefit of your workout.
On the other hand, if you buy an elliptical that is too large, you may find that it takes up too much space in your home.
And you will not be able to use it as often as you would like.
Motor Location
When you are buying an elliptical, it is important to know where the elliptical motor is located.
This is because it affects how the elliptical feels when you are using it.
If the motor is located in the front or center, it can make the elliptical feel more like a stair climber.
If the motor is located in the back, it can make the elliptical feel more like a traditional treadmill.
Either way, the location of the motor will affect your workout.
Extra Features
Standard features:
- Resistance levels
- Number of programs
- Console feedback
Extra features to look for:
- Heart rate monitor
- iPod dock/speaker system
- Cooling fan
- Water bottle holder
- Transport wheels
- Built-in fan or other cooling system
Those are a few features to look for when buying an elliptical that can make your workouts more enjoyable.
A heart rate monitor is a great way to keep track of your progress and ensure you’re staying in your target heart rate zone.
If you like to listen to music or Podcasts while working out, look for an elliptical with an iPod dock or speaker system.
A cooling fan can also be a nice feature, especially if you tend to get sweaty during your workouts.
Finally, transport wheels and a built-in fan or other cooling systems can make it easy to move your elliptical around and keep it cool during use.
Warranty
Having a warranty for your elliptical is important because it means that if something goes wrong with the machine, you will be able to get it fixed or replaced.
This can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Warranties also give you peace of mind, knowing that your elliptical is covered in case of any problems.
When choosing an elliptical, be sure to find one that comes with a good warranty.
This will ensure that you are able to enjoy your machine for many years to come.
Price
When you buy an elliptical, the price usually includes the elliptical trainer and the delivery.
Sometimes, you might have to pay extra for assembly or installation. The average price for an elliptical is about $2,000.
You can find a cheaper or more expensive machine depending on the brand, model, and features. Some high-end ellipticals can cost as much as $5,000.
But you don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money to get a good elliptical. There are plenty of good quality ellipticals that cost less than $400.
If you’re on a budget, you can still find a great elliptical for your home gym.
Just be sure to do your research and read the negative and positive reviews before making a purchase.
Final Thoughts on the Bowflex Max Trainer vs Elliptical Debate
It’s hard to say which machine is definitively better in 2023.
Both the Max trainer and elliptical have their pros and cons, depending on what you are looking for in a workout machine.
If you are primarily interested in cardio workouts, the elliptical might be a better option.
While the Bowflex Max may be better if you are looking for strength training as well.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
So try out both machines at your local gym before making a decision!
Once you decide on a machine, you’ll need the right shoes to go with it.
Be sure to check out my article on the best shoes for an elliptical.
Bowflex Max Trainer vs Elliptical Trainer FAQs
Is the Bowflex Max Trainer Better Than an Elliptical?
There is no definitive answer to this question as both machines have their own advantages and disadvantages.
However, Bowflex Max Trainers may be a better option for some people because they are less impactful on the body and can provide a better workout.
Is the Bowflex Max Trainer Considered Elliptical?
Yes, Bowflex Max Trainers are considered elliptical.
They provide a low-impact, full-body workout that is ideal for people of all fitness levels.
Bowflex Trainers burn calories and tone muscles, making them a great choice for people looking to lose weight or get in shape.
Is the Bowflex Max Trainer an Elliptical or Stairmaster?
The Max Trainer is an Elliptical with the features of a Stairmaster. It is a unique combination of both that provides a full-body workout.
Is the Bowflex Max Trainer Hard on Your Knees?
The Max Trainer is not hard on your knees. It is actually quite easy on them.
The elliptical-like design is gentle and causes very little stress on your joints.
Is the Bowflex Max Trainer a HIIT Workout?
Yes, the Bowflex Max Trainer is a High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workout.
It combines cardio and strength in just 14 minutes with preset workouts that work every part of your body.
Sources:
https://www.allellipticals.com/elliptical-trainer-resistance.html
https://www.ellipticalreviews.com/heaviest-flywheel/
https://americanhomefitness.com/blogs/news/different-types-of-elliptical-trainers
