Bowflex Revolution Review

The new Bowflex Revolution home gym is the latest in a line of machines claiming to be the clear home gym solution. With new SpiraFlex technology, over 100 exercise options, and a compact package, the Bowflex Revolution actually has a case to make. 

I can honestly say that I enjoyed doing this Bowflex Revolution review. Despite still being a big fan of more traditional training methods, the versatility, and convenience of something like the Revolution can certainly be a massive benefit to those looking for an easy home gym solution. 

Bowflex Revolution Review: A Quick Look

The major change with the Bowflex Revolution has been the inclusion of SpiraFlex technology. Unlike the traditional power rods used in other Bowflex machines, SpiraFlex produces a consistent, linear resistance similar to what you would get with free weights. 

The new SpiraFlex technology, combined with the adjustability and numerous attachment options, means that you can do well over 100 exercises on the Bowflex Revolution. Despite the endless versatility, the machine is still relatively compact and can be folded away when not in use. 

Our Tips

• Ensure that you have enough space to comfortably fit the Bowflex Revolution, you will need around a 10’ x 7’ space
• Take some time to get used to SpiraFlex, it will be a different feel than traditional machines

Is The Bowflex Revolution Worth It?

There is no denying that the Revolution is certainly one of the more premium, expensive Bowflex home gym options on the market. Not exactly ideal if you are trying to build a home gym on a budget. However, when it comes to purchasing things like the Revolution, you have to consider the real value that you are getting. 

Consider the basic cost when it comes to having your own home gym compared to a commercial gym membership or personal trainer. With the Bowflex Revolution, you are getting something that can be used on a daily basis for decades. The only catch is that you have to spend the money upfront. 

 Also, keep in mind the versatility you are getting with the Revolution. If you were to go out and purchase all the capabilities of this machine individually (leg press, leg extension, preacher curl, etc.), you would easily spend tens of thousands of dollars. 

Of course, someone, as invested in fitness as I am, is always going to have slight critiques or wants from a company like Bowflex. But all in all, the Bowflex Revolution will fit the bill for most people as a compact, versatile home gym.

Bowflex Revolution Specs

Resistance	Standard: 220 lbs (100 kg) Maximum: 300 lbs (136 kg)
Dimensions	112″ L x 37.8″ W x 73″ H (284 x 96 x 185.4 cm)
Compact/Bench Design	Bench
Workout Area	120″ L x 84″ W (305 x 214 cm)
Folded Footprint	55″ L x 38″ W (140 x 96.5 cm)
Assembled Machine Weight	336 lbs. (153 kg)
Maximum Capacity	300 lbs. (136 kg)
Warranty	Parts: 10 years Labor: 90 days

Using The Bowflex Revolution

For the purposes of this review, I solely used the Bowflex Revolution to train over the course of a few weeks. Here are my thoughts on all of the Revolution’s features, including what I liked and disliked:

SpiraFlex

I will be honest and say that when I first heard of SpiraFlex, the whole thing sounded a bit gimmicky to me. I know that it was initially developed to help astronauts train in space and all, but it seemed more like marketing material than something that would move the needle for home gym owners. 

However, after having used the machine for a few weeks, I can say that I am fully convinced. Adding or removing resistance was very simple with the discs that come standard with the machine (220 lbs.):

• 4 x 5 lbs
• 4 x 10 lbs
• 4 x 20 lbs
• 2 x 40 lbs

Essentially, the different discs provide more or less resistance as they spin, depending on their resistance level. What I liked best about these discs is that, unlike regular weight plates, they were light and easy to store and use. 

I really preferred the SpiraFlex compared to the regular power rods used in other Bowflex machines. The feel took some getting used to, but it was very similar to what you would get when using a free-weight machine. 

By default, you get 220 lbs of resistance, as mentioned before. You also have the option of getting an extra two 40-pound discs. I think that the included resistance of 220 should be more than enough for most home gym owners. However, if you are more experienced, perhaps the extra resistance is something to take into consideration. 

Included Accessories And Attachments

One of the major selling points of the Bowflex Revolution is that it comes standard with a number of attachments and accessories that you would normally have to pay extra for. 

• Leg Press Plate
• Preacher Curl Attachment
• Leg Press Seatback
• Foot Harnesses
• Curl Bar
• Hand Grips
• Incline Bench

It is hard to deny the value that you are getting with all of these included accessories. I found that all of these were very easy to set up and use for a variety of exercises. 

Is the Bowflex Revolution Leg Press good?

The only thing that I would draw some attention to is the leg press. The leg press plate and seat work great, but you would likely need to get the extra resistance option if you want to properly challenge your legs. 

Exercise Versatility

Officially, Bowflex claims that you can do over 100 exercises with the Bowflex Revolution. This is an impressive figure and certainly puts the Revolution up there with the very best in terms of versatility.

If you purchase the Revolution, you will get a manual in the box with all of the listed exercises. This is very helpful, but there are tons of other resources you could use if you want to unlock the full potential of your Bowflex. 

Personally, I would switch between creating my own workout using exercises in the manual and following an online YouTube workout. Either is a great option; just make sure you are using the proper form. Alliteratively, you could use checkout our Bowflex Revolution exercises guide.

All of the exercise options come from the adjustable bench, freedom arms, sliding seat rail, and included attachments that we mentioned before. Altogether, it really is surprising the number of configurations you can get this machine in. The level of adjustability really made every exercise feel natural, as I could match the machine to my build. 

One surprising thing was that, unlike most other home gym machines, the Revolution did not include a lat pulldown. Personally, I did not mind, as there were plenty of other ways to train my back, but it is worth mentioning. 

How Easy Is It To Switch Between Exercises On The Bowflex Revolution? 

Having over 100 exercise options is great and all, but it really is not worth much if it takes 10 minutes to switch between exercises. 

Thankfully, I am happy to report that this is certainly not an issue with the Bowflex Revolution. In fact, I found the opposite to be true. The Revolution was one of the easiest machines to adjust on the market. 

Since there are no cables or anything to mess with, switching between exercise positions should not take more than a minute thanks to the quick change systems. This really comes down to the high-quality materials used on the sliding seat, freedom arms, and bench. 

Everything moved very easily, and once it was locked in, it felt very secure. Having used some other machines like the PR1000, Xceed, and Blaze that had more cumbersome adjustments, the Revolution was a breath of fresh air. 

Is The Bowflex Revolution Assembly Easy?

When it comes to ordering fitness equipment, I will be the first to admit that assembly is the part that I look forward to the least. Especially with machines like the Revolition that look very complicated at first glance, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was to put this together. Every piece came in a clearly labeled box with very detailed, easy-to-read instructions. 

All in all, it took me about three hours to put everything together on my own, so it was certainly doable. But if you really want to expedite things, Bowflex offers an assembly service for an additional cost of $299. 

Bowflex Revolution Dimensions

According to Bowflex, you will need a 10’ x 7’ space for this machine to work properly. This is a good chunk of room, but again, you have to consider everything that this machine can actually do. 

The good news is that you can fold this machine for easier storage when not in use. This can certainly help open up whichever room or garage you put in if you need extra space. 

The machine does come with wheels to allow you to move it. However, since the machine weighs 336 pounds when assembled, it is not really something you want to do often.

Bowflex Revolution Vs The Competition

Bowflex Revolution vs Xtreme 2 SE

Feature	Bowflex Revolution	Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE
Resistance	SpiraFlex® technology with up to 300 lbs	Power Rod® resistance with up to 210 lbs
Number of Exercises	100+	70+
Workout Area	10′ x 7′	8′ x 6.5′
Weight Capacity	300 lbs	300 lbs
Leg Developer	Included	Included
Ab Crunch Attachment	Included	Included
Preacher Curl Attachment	Included	Included
Dimensions (LxWxH)	112″ x 38″ x 73″	96″ x 78″ x 82″

The main difference between the Revolution and Xtreme 2 SE is the resistance method used. As mentioned before, the Revolution makes use of the more modern Spiraflex technology, while the Xtreme 2 SE has the more traditional push rods. 

If you prefer the feel of free weights, the Revolution will no doubt be better suited for you. The power rod style does have its benefits, but most people tend to prefer the more smooth, linear feel of Spiraflex. 

In terms of exercises, both have plenty of variation, but the Revolution clearly wins by having an additional 30 or so exercise options. 

Lastly, the Revolution is the more expensive option of the two. Personally, I would spend the extra for the Spiraflex and its versatility, but the Xtreme 2 SE is a great home gym in its own right. Check out our Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE review for more details.

Customer Experience

Returns

Bowflex states that you are eligible for returns within 6 weeks of delivery as long as you have all of the parts in an undamaged state. Returns will not include refunds for shipping or assembly fees. 

Warranty

The Bowflex Revolution comes with a 10-year warranty on parts and a 90-day warranty on labor. Labor warranties are always short, but 90 days is quite a bit shorter than the industry average of about 1 year. 

On the other hand, the 10-year warranty on parts is excellent. Overall, the warranty on this machine is pretty good. 

Financing

Bowflex does offer financing options, and you can get the Bowflex Revolution for as low as $128 per month. 

Customer Service

If there is one knock on Bowflex as a company, it is its customer service. I have personally never had any issues, but many customers online have claimed to have had poor experiences in the past. 

Customer Bowflex Revolution Reviews

The Bowflex Revolution has excellent reviews, with an average rating of 4.6/5 and well over 500 reviews. Based on the reviews we read, customers seemed to really like the

• Easy assembly
• Versatility
• Option to fold the machine

Why Trust FitDominium?

FitDominium’s team draws from a pool of fitness and wellness experts, from athletes and coaches to nutritionists and trainers, to guarantee top-quality product recommendations. We invest significant time in researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools, ensuring that our content is authentic and accurate. 

Prioritizing customer satisfaction, we only suggest highly-rated products. As fitness enthusiasts ourselves, we advocate for items we personally trust and use, blending professionalism with passion.

When it comes to home gym options, in particular, we are certainly not lacking in experience, having reviewed and used some of the most popular options on the market. 

Final Verdict On Our Bowflex Revolution Home Gym Review

All in all, the Bowflex Revolution is a premium home gym option. It is rare to see one piece of equipment that offers this many features in such a compact package. While it can seem pricey, we see more than enough value to justify the cost for home gym owners. 

Whether you are an experienced lifter or a beginner, the Bowflex Revolution can certainly add a new dimension to your home gym. 

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