After 675 days of not going to the gym, this machine restored my pre-pandemic workouts.
You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who hasn’t heard of Bowflex.
The brand is behindingenious adjustable dumbbellsand thetrail-blazing home gymsthat made Bowflex a recognizable name.
Photo: Courtesy of Merchant
Perhaps less well known, however, is the fact that Bowflex isn’t all about strength training.
The following is my in-depth, honest review of the Bowflex MT16.
But First, Some Context
It has been 675 days since I stepped foot inside a gym.
Bowflex
And, well, we all know what happened in March of 2020.
I asked my husband to test the machine as well to get another perspective.
I’m not a fan of elliptical machines, but I love traditional stair steppers andHIIT workouts.
Bowflex
I also like the low-impact nature of the machine.
While I never got injured, it was always startling.
I never have to lift my feet from the MT16’s pedals, completely eliminating the tripping hazard.
Bowflex
Specs
The slim profile of the MT16 is ideal for small spaces.
I plan on keeping my machine in the same spot, but it’s easy to move if needed.
I wasn’t able to test moving it on plush carpet.
Bowflex
The machine operates smoothly and quietly.
The MT16 has six handlebars, compared to the M9’s four.
User Interface
The touchscreen is responsive, and the options and programs are easy to navigate.
Anna Knief
I prefer to use the touchscreen exclusively.
It quickly comes back on if I tap the screen or gently pedal to “wake” it up.
There’s a knob in the center of the machine to adjust resistance.
Anna Knief
Turn it left to lower the resistance level and right to raise it.
The resistance knob is my least favorite part of the MT16.
Oftentimes, the screen lags and I end up over or undershooting the level I want.
Anna Knief
It’s not a great user experience, but overall I don’t consider it a deal breaker.
Price and Warranty
The base price of the Bowflex Max Total 16 is $2,499.
This price does not include additional programs and streaming services that are accessible with a Jrny membership.
Anna Knief
If you want to extend the warranties, you’re free to purchase aBowflex Protection Plan.
Admittedly, the MT16 is on the expensive side of exercise equipment.
All the Max Trainers also havefinancing options.
Anna Knief
The issues were resolved promptly thanks to Bowflex Customer Service, but more on that later.)
This fitness assessment is what the machine uses as your baseline to tailor workouts specifically for you.
I admit that I was in a little bit of a hurry when doing my fitness assessment.
Bowflex
I’ve liked starting with shorter sessions and working my way up.
He adjusted his fitness goals to include workouts in the 15-30-minute range, and the MT16 responded accordingly.
After comparing notes, Tom and I agree that the Jrny app’s virtual coaching is extremely helpful.
Bowflex
The virtual coach’s reminders always come at the perfect time for me to ensure I maintain proper form.
I can layer world exploration or music on top of nearly any workout to make it more engaging.
Just for You
These programs vary in length and intensity.
They’re adaptive workouts, so they’re not the same for each user.
Each program includes virtual coaching.
you’re free to layer music, TV streaming, or world exploration options over these workouts.
The workouts are adaptive, and many include virtual coaching.
If you stop to rest, the screen also pauses.
Videos
These are instructor-led virtual classes that are organized by beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.
But that’s the beauty of this platform: You never stop learning and progressing.
Later that same day, I learned via text message that I was assigned a technician named Joe.
Joe confirmed an exact time for arrival, which I appreciated rather than waiting during a four-hour window.
On assembly day, Joe arrived on time and was polite and professional.
We showed Joe the area we wanted the machine set up, and he got to work.
(Note: The machine needs to be near an outlet.)
Overall, I was very pleased with delivery and the expert assembly service.
I wouldn’t hesitate to use this service again should I order another Bowflex machine in the future.
I entered my username and password, but I received an error that the credentials weren’t recognized.
I tried the “forgot password” troubleshooting process, but I never received an email to reset it.
After a few more attempts to troubleshoot with no success, and consulting theFAQ page, I contactedcustomer service.
After that, they can use the “jump in” button.
If all Bowflex customer service agents are like Lawrence, then I give them an 11 out of 10.
That said, the reviewers have given the machine a 4.8-star rating.
“We can all get a good workout even though we are at different levels of activity.”
Finally, the review I found most inspiring waswritten by Jen from California.
She said, “This machine has made me into a daily workout person.
I absolutely love everything about it.
It has inspired me to be a better version of myself.”
Who Should Invest In the Bowflex MT16?
Who Shouldn’t Invest In the Bowflex MT16?
Is the Bowflex MT16 Worth It?
If you have no interest in fitness subscription services, the MT16 is not for you.
