The M5 is Bowflex's most popular fitness machine in the Max Trainer series at just over $1,500. This mid-grade model contains the features most people will want including more workout programs and resistance levels than the base model M3. It also includes sync support with the free Max Trainer phone app via Bluetooth.
Features
The Max Trainer M5 share the same small footprint as the M3 at 46" long by 25" wide, and 63" high. Max user weight is 300 lbs and you need to make sure you have enough head clearance. The ceiling in your room you plan to put the Bowflex Max Trainer M5 in needs to be the user's height plus at least 15 inches. You also need to make sure you have a power reciprocal nearby for the AC adapter.
The Bowflex Max Trainer M5 includes:
- 16 resistance levels
- Backlit LCD Display and speedometer
- 2 User Profiles
- 8 Preprogrammed Workout Programs (plus 1 manual)
- Bluetooth and synch support with phone apps
- Heart Rate Monitor in Grips
- Integrated transport rollers
- Water holder and media shelf
How Does it Work
To get started all you need to do is step on the foot pads and start pushing down. The cardio machine will turn on which will then allow you to pick 1 of the 8 workout programs. You have 4 Target Mode programs and 4 Performance Mode programs. After you select the program and your level you can start to in on the workout. At anytime during the workout you can change the resistance level. On the console the speedometer shows your current burn rate and your total calorie burn count for your current workout. The speedometer also marks your target zone. This is where your burn rate should be for the part of the program you are in. Programs vary in resistance and time. For example the Max Interval program has you push yourself really hard for a minute and then lets you coast for a minute on a much easier resistance level. It then repeats this cycle for 14 minutes.
The Bowflex Max Trainer M5 handle bars are part of the workout programs and are designed to help you tone your upper body with 3 distinct hand hold areas. These are affected by the resistance levels and you are suppose to use these in conjunction with the foot pads to have a full body workout.
Part of the workout program is also keeping track of your heart rate. This lets the Max Trainer know what your optimum calorie burn rate is. The M5 comes with sensitive heart rate monitors in the front hand grips and with an alternate wireless chest strap. The chest strap monitor allows you to have your heart rate tracked constantly and means you don't have to interrupt your upper body workout by garbing the grips to measure your heart rate every few minutes.
Workout Programs
The Max Trainer M5 comes with 8 fitness workout programs. For each program you can specify a level which affects the resistance setting of the M5 during the program run. For some programs your heart rate may also affect settings as the machine gets you into the target burn zone for your age and weight.
- Max Interval - Alternates from intense bursts of output to a slower paced
- Smart Max Interval - MAX Interval workout program with automatic adjusting resistance to keep the user in the target zone
- Calorie Burn
- Fat Burn
- Calorie Goal - Based on calories burned over the entire workout
- Stairs
- Steady State - Tracks total time. Keeps user burn rate constant. Will adjust resistance levels depending on RPM
- Fitness Test - Measures the improvements of your physical fitness level. It compares your power output to your heart rate. As your fitness level improves, your power output will increase at a given heart rate
Apps
The Bowflex Max Trainer 2 app is available for Android and iOS. It lets you sync via Bluetooth with your Bowflex Max Trainer M5 to track your calories burned, heart rate, and when you worked out. You can also set goals, see your milestones, and earn virtual achievements when you hit personal records.
Shipping
Standard delivery for the M5 in the contiguous United States costs $150 ($249 to Hawaii and Alaska). To ready your order it takes approximately 2 to 10 business days and another 7 days on average for delivery. The M5 is also available internationally. The M5 is shipped in 2 large boxes which weigh in at about 150 lbs.
Cost
The Bowflex Max Trainer M5 is priced at $1,599 plus shipping and taxes. There is also a paid option to have Bowflex service people assemble the M5.
Coupons
Enter the following promo code at the Bowflex checkout to receive the offer (if available):
Promo Code: MAXBURNS - Free shipping for your Bowflex Max Trainer M5
* All prices are in USD unless specified other wise. Prices, coupon codes, products offered, and product features last checked March 13, 2016.
Guarantee
As with most Bowflex machines the M5 comes with a 6 weeks 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you don't like it for any reason your can return the Max Trainer and receive a full refund (minus shipping costs).
Warranty
The M5 has a 2 year warranty for all parts. This includes the frame, electronics and other components. The warranty for labor is 90 days. Warranties are not transferable to new owners. For more information please read your Bow Flex Max Trainer M5 manual for full details.
Customer Service
Bowflex has a range of options for contacting them regarding their products. You can call toll-free, email, and chat live on their website. Customer support is available during the week from 6am till 5pm Pacific Standard Time. On the Bowflex website you can also download digital copies of the manuals, watch videos on how to assemble your purchase, and read the FAQ which answers most commonly asked questions. The M5 also has a Question and Answer page which allows you to post a question which Bowflex staff and other visitors can answer. There currently is almost 400 answered questions.
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