Bowflex Max Trainer M8 review – Feel the burn!

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If you are looking for an effective way to get your butt in shape, this Bowflex Max Trainer M8 review may be just what you need to read.  The M8 is a great way to burn calories, strengthen your core, build endurance and do it efficiently.  Best of all you can do this in just 14 minutes per day. Please continue reading if you are in the market for a revolutionary machine to help you shed those unwanted pounds.

===>Bowflex Max Trainer M8<===

Max Trainer M8

The best place to purchase: Bowflex.com

The Max Trainer M8 takes elliptical training to a completely new level. They have taken an elliptical and re-designed it, giving it a completely different configuration to take up less space. The upright orientation is kind of like a marriage between a stair climber and a traditional elliptical. In addition, it just looks cool too, with a very modern, industrial design.

You may also want to check out my guide with some tips for purchasing an elliptical before you take the plunge.

Bowflex Max Trainer M8

The Bowflex Max Trainer M8 was designed for interval training where you work out like crazy for 25 seconds and then you have a period of rest, then you do it all over again.  These intervals of high intensity increase your heart rate and then you bring the heart rate back down with periods of rest.  Doing this over a 14-minute period gives you a fantastic workout.  After the workout, your body continues to burn calories for a really long time.

The Bowflex Max Trainer M8 offers you a low impact workout that will target your lower body fast.  You will also get a full body workout so you are not only using your legs but your arms as well.  This machine really engages your upper body more than a typical elliptical.  You are in for a real treat with this unit because the work is definitely harder than it looks. It is a great way to build endurance, muscle and burn calories.

If you have not worked out, or have not worked out in a long time, you do not want to jump right into the interval training, but rather work your way up.  You can do this with one of the presets, or use manual mode, I will get into this in a little bit. If you are a workout out warrior, you might find the interval training is just fine.  One thing to note, before you begin an exercise program, check with your doctor.

If time is an obstacle for you when you think about working out, the Bowflex Max Trainer M8 has you covered. Designed to give you a killer workout in 14 minutes, burning more calories in less time is exactly what Bowflex set out to accomplish with this machine.

A little bit about the 14-minute workout

When I contacted Bowflex about the 14-minute workout and how often you should do it, they told me that for starters, they recommend 3 days per week in manual mode.  You can work your way up to the full 14-minute interval workout from there.  Of course, this will depend on your current state of fitness.  They also recommend one stretching or rest day per week when you decide to kick up to full gear.

The display is intuitive and easy to use on this top of the line model.

Some key features of the Max Trainer M8 include:

  • Dual mode LCD display
  • Max Intelligence platform-enabled
  • 11 workout programs
  • Connectivity for up to four individual users
  • 20 levels of computer-controlled resistance
  • Static handlebars as well as dynamic handlebarsMax Trainer M8 Console

Specs:

  • Max user weight – 300 pounds
  • Minimum Ceiling Height – User height + 15 inches
  • Unit weight – 148 pounds
  • Height – 65.5 inches
  • Width – 30.5 inches
  • Depth – 49 inches

Pros:

  • Kick butt workout
  • Efficient machine to get a full body workout
  • Easy to read display
  • Innovative upright design
  • Water bottle holder (it’s the little things in life)
  • Platform to hold a tablet or smartphone

Cons:

  • No stereo
  • Pretty expensive
  • There is no fan built into the machine

Some assembly required

Assembly is required for this machine.  Bowflex recommends two people put it together and it takes about 1-2 hours.  There is a video as well.  You may want to buy a machine mat, a non-slip rubber surface, as it will add a layer of protection to your floor.  You may want to consider professional assembly if you are not up for this challenge.

Max Trainer M7 vs. Max Trainer M8

Bowflex recently updated and upgraded the Max Trainer series.  The former Max Trainer M7 is replaced with the Max Trainer M8. Mechanically, they’re very similar with the main difference being that the M8 has a new console. It has some tweaks and a slightly nicer display, but the main deal here is that the new console works with just-released Max Intelligence app-based coaching platform.

The main thing is the new subscription coaching platform couldn’t directly interact with the M7 so, Bowflex updated the M7 with the new console.

The new M8 also has fewer pre-set programs built-in, outside of the app.  Where the M7 had 11 applications, the M8 now has 7.  Some of the programs became redundant with the introduction of the subscription-based app.  For instance, the Fitness Test program on the M7 model has morphed into a full-blown fitness assessment which is now available to both the free and subscription-based users of the app.

So that is the long and short of the differences between the legacy M7 and the newly remodeled M8

Connectivity

Bowflex offers a subscription-based app that has a lot of great features, including:

  • Dynamic Coaching (Max speaks directly to you, motivating you through workouts
  • Customized workouts (personalized daily exercises designed for your fitness level)
  • Premium video workouts (trainer led videos recommended based on your fitness level)

The Max Intelligence App connects in real-time to your workouts, so your progress is always up to date.  You will need a device, your phone, or tablet to connect to the app.  Your device will be your screen for the customized, or coach-led workouts.

Through the integrated Bluetooth, the Max Trainer will connect to your app, updating your progress.

You can certainly use your Max Trainer without the app, and you can always purchase the app down the road.

The Max Intelligence app is available for both IOS and AndroidBowflex Max Trainer M8 review

How much does the app cost?

The subscription is $14.99 per month, or you can go with an annual subscription for $149. You can cancel at any time.

You can still use the app without a subscription and access free workouts, videos, etc. The app gives you access to even more content.

The Bowflex Max Trainer M8 is portable

You can move the machine, by tilting it, using the aerobar grips, onto the transport rollers.  Depending on how strong you are, you may be able to move it alone, or you may need a friend to help. So, in theory, you can move this from room to room if you need to or store it away when not in use. I don’t know how realistic that is, but at least you have the option.  Bowflex does recommend that 2 people move the machine since it does weigh about 140 pounds.

Small in size, but you still need room

You will want to allow for a workout area of 78.5 inches x 97 inches. You also need to take in to account the height of the user when you are thinking about the overall height needed.  Due to the upright orientation of this machine be sure to take the pedal height and user height into account.  Per Bowflex, you want to allow user height + 15 inches.  That way you will not hit your head on the ceiling.

Max Bowflex Max Trainer M8 learns your behavior

As you train, the Bowflex M8 learns about your current fitness level and what your goals are and it will intuitively help push you to new heights.  It’s really pretty cool, there is what looks like a tachometer on the LCD display and the harder you go, the more the engine revs!

Even though the machine is intuitive, you can still make manual adjustments as you see fit.  Change the resistance level, or add time to your work out with the touch of a button.  These controls are conveniently located and easy to adjust.

Power up!

You will also need a power source nearby where you are planning on working out.  The pretty lights on the display don’t light up by themselves.  Now that would be cool right, a display that brightens as you pedal.

Monitor your heart rate

You can check your heart rate with the built-in contact heart rate sensors, or if you have a chest strap model monitor, that is compatible with this machine as well

Smooth pedaling

Sports performance racing pedals which are designed to be aerodynamic, provide a nice wide area for your foot to rest.  This pedal design will fit a lot of different foot size so don’t worry if you have Sasquatch-sized feet.  You won’t slip on these babies either; they have rubber dots that come in contact with the bottom of your shoe to make sure you stay in place.

===>Bowflex Max Trainer M8<===

Bowflex Max Trainer M8 pedals

Some more things I like

One of the things I really like about this machine is the legitimate full body work you can do.  You will target from your shoulder down to your calves.  This includes the ever important core area consisting of hamstrings, quads, glutes, abs, etc.  So, from that standpoint, I love this machine.

I am a huge advocate of building and maintaining a strong core. Given my history of back problems, I understand that a strong core is super important to managing or eliminating back pain.

When I was recovering from my back injury in 2015-2016, one of the first pieces of equipment my chiropractor told me to use was an elliptical machine.  Elliptical machines are a great way to engage multiple muscle groups and really get your core work in.

The Bowflex 8 is a super compact machine, given its upright orientation.  It will literally take up about half the space of a full size elliptical. The compact size, along with portability makes this a very desirable piece of workout equipment for your home or office.

What I do not like

This is going to sound a little strange, but there is no fan on this unit. There is a giant fan that controls the resistance, but only if you are pedaling backward do you get any airflow from this machine.  When I spoke with a Bowflex rep, he said folks really did not want a fan on the unit.  I like a fan when I am working out, but that is just me.

Warranty

Bowflex offers a 3-year warranty on the M8 which covers the frame, mechanical parts, electronics, and a 90-day warranty on labor

Bowflex Max Trainer M8 Performance Pack

Bowflex does offer an upgrade to the M8, which includes a Samsung tablet and the machine mat. So, if that is something you are interested in, click below to check that out.

==>Bowflex Max Trainer M8 Performance Pack <==

Comparing the Bowflex Max Trainer models

Bowflex offers three different models in the Max Trainer series.  Below are the major differences in the 3 models. You can see my other reviews here:

Bowflex Max Trainer M6

Bowflex Max Trainer M3

==> Shop all Bowflex Max Trainers <==

Bowflex Max Trainer comparison chart

Conclusion: Bowflex Max Trainer M8 review

Well, that about sums it up, or at least I hope I got most of it here.  I know this machine is pricey, but I also believe it does what it is supposed to do.  Of course, you will need to eat right to see maximum results as with any exercise program, but the M8 will do its part to help.  I give the Bowflex Max Trainer M8 thumbs up and think it is a great piece of equipment for a home gym.

If you are ready to make a purchase or would like more information, please click the button below.

Get your Bowflex Max Trainer M8

If you are looking for other ellipticals, you can check out my review to see the best ellipticals on the market.

I hope you enjoy your new Bowflex M8 as much as I enjoyed writing this review.  I appreciate your time and I thank you for stopping by today.

Bowflex Max Trainer M8
  • Available Features - 95%
    95%
  • Functionality - 95%
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  • Design - 95%
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22 thoughts on “Bowflex Max Trainer M8 review – Feel the burn!”

  1. I love the idea of 25 second workout, then rest and only work out 14 minutes – that sounds like my kind of fitness plan!
    I have been committed to 20 minutes a day of exercise and I’m getting it done. I have a Total Gym – have you ever tried that?
    I bet I would like the BowFlex – thanks for the review. You have me thinking that I may need one more piece of equipment.

    Reply
    • Yes, this interval training sounds maybe a lot easier than it actually is! I am glad to hear you are committed to a fitness plan and are actually sticking to it. Kudos to you for that. I have tried a Total Gym and it’s pretty amazing the work out you can get from that machine. Thank you so much for your comment, I appreciate you taking the time to stop by. Best of luck to you.

      Reply
  2. This is a great machine. it is good for cardio and building up stamina. Love to see more review about other products. I just bought 1 elliptical machine for home use. I would love to read more review about other product from you. Keep it. I will keep myself update on your new post.

    Regards
    Jaden

    Reply
    • Thank you Jaden. Yes, I will keep writing product reviews, so stay tuned. Thank you for stopping by today, I really appreciate your comment.

      Reply
  3. I fully endorse these machines! Bowflex has been around for a long time and they make some really good machines. I have not tried this particular M7, but it looks like it offers a great workout. I have been looking for a new machine to add to my home so I don’t have to go to the gym too time consuming. This may be just what I need. Thanks for sharing, I will let you know if I need any more advice.

    Reply
    • Thank you very much for stopping by. You are right, Bowflex is a very innovative company and they have been around for a long time. They continue to innovate and that is such a great thing to do in this very competitive market. Any questions you have, I am happy to help. Thanks again for your comment, I appreciate it.

      Reply
  4. Hi Steve, this is one fancy pants machine. I know it’s quite pricey but if it gets me looking like a hunk. No, seriously this is an excellent review of a product that looks as if it is very well designed which is what one has come to expect of the Bowflex range. Thanks for the video clips which are always useful to include in posts. It was great to see the assembly process.

    All the best,

    Brian

    Reply
    • Ha, thank you for your comment Brian. I am glad you enjoyed this review. Yes Bowflex designs some really awesome workout equipment and they continue to innovate. Thanks again for stopping by, I appreciate it.

      Reply
  5. Thank you Steve for this Bowflex Max Trainer M7 review! Looks like a great piece of equipment for a full body workout. I actually prefer elliptical machines over anything else and the fact that you can get a great workout in only 14 minutes is awesome! I like that it has Bluetooth also for pairing. Great review!!

    Reply
    • Hi Tammy, I appreciate your comment, thank you very much. I prefer elliptical machines as well, versus the pounding I would take on a treadmill, but that is just me. The full body, and low impact aspects are what draw me in. Especially for someone who deals with back problems, these are two items high on my list when working out, low impact and full body. Thanks for stopping by, I hope to see you again soon.

      Reply
  6. Hi, Steve.
    Reading this review made me want to test the Bowflex Max Trainer M7.
    My training includes elliptical exercises at the gym. But the M7 seems to be more advanced, not only in design but especially for the fact that it learns your behavior.
    That’s really cool!

    Reply
    • Thank you for your comment Eliane, I appreciate it. Yes, the M7 trainer is a really versatile machine in many different respects. As you mentioned, it will help you achieve your goals and is a space-saver for sure. Thanks for stopping by, hope to see you again soon.

      Reply
  7. Greetings Steve. I saw this equipment not long ago and was wondering about it. I practice interval training so I understand how important it is to have something that can target group muscles very efficiently. Can this be stored in the garage and exposed to the weather for specific workouts? I have a small gym in an area without A/C. I was just concerned with how integral the structure was and the materials used for the heavier parts of the equipment. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Thanks for your comment Jackie, I appreciate it.  This comes straight from the Bowflex Max Trainer M7 manual as to what is not covered under the warranty “damage due to improper storage or the effect of environmental conditions such as moisture or weather”.  So given that, I would not recommend exposing the machine to weather conditions.  Depending on where you live, yes it can be tough to workout in a space with no air conditioning.  One of the great features of the M7 is the upright orientation makes it a much smaller unit, from a footprint stand point, so it does take up a lot less room than a standard elliptical. Thanks again for stopping by, let me know if you need any more assistance, I am glad to help.  

      Reply
  8. Wow, what a great article. I’m sold! You have my vote!

    Although I do agree with you, a fan would be nice, but I’ve heard a little bit about the Bowflexes. I’ve always wanted to try one cause I heard it really does the job. Honestly these machines are awesome. Unlike some of the dumb things you hear about, like a surfboard that you can exercise on, or having an vibrating machine on your stomach, unlike them, the Bowflex also yields results.

    Great article. Will have to recommend it to my friends.

    Reply
    • Thank you Jake for your comment.  I agree with you about the fan, but it’s a minor deal, not a deal breaker.  Bowflex is a very innovative company and they just keep coming up with cool products.  Although I do have to disagree, I love the surfboards that you can exercise on 🙂  Indoboards are really cool.  Thanks again for stopping by, I appreciate it.

      Reply
  9. I really enjoyed your article. The older elliptical machines seemed a little clunky to me yet I enjoy them more than a treadmill.

    I like the fact that the machine intuitively pushes us to greater heights and appreciate the exercise interval training tip.

    I didn’t realize it mainly strengthened the core but it makes sense. Thanks for the article. I really enjoyed.

    Reply
    • Thank you Ruby, I appreciate your comment.  I agree with you, these Max Trainers are space-savers for sure.  I am glad you enjoyed the article, let me know if you have any questions or need any help.

      Reply
  10. Hello! The Bowflex Max Trainer is an awesome powerhouse of a machine and produces an extreme workout! Both my sister and daughter each own one and I have used theirs. Let me tell you, it is an intense and, might I add, difficult (yet beneficial) workout! I am yet to buy one, and with reading all the extensive information here, I will look into it more deeply. Thanks for this helpful review!

    Reply
    • Thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a comment, I appreciate it.  I am glad to hear you have first hand experience with the Bowflex Max Trainer M7.  I believe these are a great and efficient way to get a great workout.  Thanks again and I hope to see you again soon!

      Reply
  11. 14 minute workout that sounds great. Get up, workout, jump into the shower and still have time for breakfast before heading out to work. That would suit me well.

    I have used stationary bikes and steppers before but the Bowflex Max Trainer seems to combines the two into using your arms and legs together.

    The extra hand positions are a plus as I find my arms get tired before my legs and I need to let them rest.

    Reply
    • The 14-minute workout is no joke let me tell you. Bowflex has done a great job of combining two machines, the stepper and elliptical into one awesome cardio machine. The great thing is you have the ability to control and change the workout to suit you. If you are a beginner, you can dial it back and if you are a pro, you can crank it up. Thanks for stopping by today and please let me know if you have any questions.

      Reply

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