Bowflex Max 6 and Max 8: Which is Right for You?

Bowflex has launched the Max Trainer M6 and M8 that are both guaranteed to have you burning calories in less than 14 minutes per day. Whether you are looking to get back in shape from a temporary hiatus or improve your current fitness level, these machines will challenge you to reach your goals. The Bowflex trainers are great pieces of indoor fitness equipment that caters to a wide range of customers. In this article, we will break down the key differences between the two machines to help you decide which one best suits your fitness needs.

Bowflex Max Trainer M6

The M6 is a stylish black and silver machine equipped with 29 instructor led videos. Seventeen of these videos are free and the remaining requires a subscription to the Max Intelligence Platform for $15/month. There are 16 levels of resistance, touch sensors to monitor your heart rate, burn rate displayed in the console and the ability to accommodate two users. The entire machine is a compact frame and weighs around 150lbs. The M6 is a lower price point than the M8 but is still compatible with the same software, which is really the most impressive part of both machines. Some of the top features of this bike include:

• • Accommodates 2 users
  • 29 instructor led videos; 17 free
  • Smart technology in the Max Intelligence App that can be displayed on a phone or tablet via Bluetooth or USB connection
  • Stair stepper meets elliptical model
  • 16 levels of resistance
  • Aerodynamic handlebars that run parallel to the machine
  • Can hold up to 300lbs
  • Compact frame
  • Large foot pedals with grip technology for anti-slip
  • Fair price point (less than Max 8)

Click Here to Buy on BowFlex

Bowflex Max Trainer M8

The M8 is a slightly upgraded version of the M6. The M8 model has 20 resistance levels, touch sensors and the option for armband heart rate monitoring and burn rate displayed in console. This machine has a premium media rack that is larger than the Max 6 and can hold both a tablet as well as a secondary device. The M8 can accommodate 4 users and is paired with the Max Intelligence Platform technology that can be displayed through a phone or tablet. This machine has the option to purchase a Samsung Tablet for a package deal. Some of the best features of this bike include:

• • Dual mode LCD/LED screens
  • Multi-grip dynamic handlebars (angled inwards for more variety in hand placement)
  • Athletic foot pedals that include top piece to hold feet better in place and avoid slipping
  • 4 user compatible
  • Compact frame with total weight of machine being 150lbs
  • Can hold up to 300lbs
  • Smart tech Max Intelligence Platform compatible to display through tablet or phone via Bluetooth
  • Slightly higher price point than Max 6 but offers package option for $300 more that includes Samsung Tablet, Heart rate monitor armband and Bowflex Mat
  • Stair stepper meets elliptical model
  • Quiet machine when operating

Click Here to Buy on BowFlex

So which one is best for you?

My Experience

• Both machines offer a great workout and are similar in frame and style—the colors, pedals and handlebars are the main features that are physically different between the two but are more of an aesthetic preference.
• Both machines are paired with the Max Intelligence Platform App that uses predictive analytics to assess individuals’ fitness levels and customize workouts for personal goals. The App is the best part of these machines as it remembers content you liked such as specific trainers and music to better cater to you individually. Max Intelligence is like having your own personal trainer in your home.
• The M8 has aerodynamic handlebars with more grip options, upgraded foot pedals that help avoid slipping, and a larger media rack to hold multiple devices. The handlebars on the Max 8 offer slightly more options for hand positions than the M6 but the physical difference is very minor.
• Both machines display burn rate in the console allowing you to see your max effort regions on the console if not using the App. Both machines can be used without a tablet or App but are enhanced significantly with the Max Intelligence Platform.

The Verdict

Both Bowflex machines are quite similar in frame, design and ability to give you a great workout. The selling point for Bowflex Max trainers has been that they can give you a great workout in 14min or less. Both the M6 and M8 can give you a great workout and have you reaching your maximum capabilities in a short period of time. The glory of these machines really comes down to the Max Intelligence Platform App that uses predictive analytics to create custom workouts based on how you’re feeling, how much time you have and your previous workouts. The App remembers things you liked such as certain trainers and music during the workout. The App pushes you in each workout focusing on short bursts, longer rests and overall smarter programs. Max speaks to you during your workout giving your praise when earned, motivation and at times telling you to step up your game when you might be slacking. The App is like having your own personal trainer in your home whenever you like.

The real differences between the M6 and M8 are more aesthetic as highlighted above. The main things to consider when deciding between the two machines are price point, how many users will be on the machine and design in handlebars/foot pedals. The M8 is $600 more than the M6 on Bowflex’s website, which is a significant difference for not a lot of major upgrades. While these two machines offer slight differences, they both are paired with the Max Intelligence Platform App, which is by far the best feature of the Bowlfex trainers. The App is really what takes the Bowflex trainers to the next level with custom workouts that will keep your day-to-day fitness exciting, new and challenging. Whether you choose the M6 or the M8, you will no doubt be on the right path towards a stronger, healthier version of yourself.