Bowflex

[pbially]

Hello, I recently started a strength training program with the Bowflex. Someone suggested that its only going to burn minimal calories because you only carry your weight? I'm confused.. Its the only strength training i have access to, just would like to know if I'm wasting time or not.

[swanso5]

it might good in addition to actuial resisiance training but as a sole mode of exercise, i'd go no

get yourslef some db's and pop in some lunges, squats, push ups, shoulder presses and such and do your back work on the bowflex (it's a cable thing with a slide board isn't it?)

[Packard]

Bowflex mimics most of the cable exercise motions and most of the plate machine motions. It has the advantage of being light weight and not having to deal with inertia. You can work very rapid motions with a Bowflex to work the fast twitch muscles without risk of "tossing" the weights around.

It is primarily a resistance machine and I think cardio will burn more calories, but for a home workout machine it is a pretty good piece of equipment.

[pbially]

Thank your response. I've decided to use it for now because something is better than nothing.

[Packard]

I used to work out with one of the spokesmen (actors) that demonstrate the Bowflex on TV. He looked great. But he worked out at the same gym as I did and they did not have any Bowflex machines at all.

That said, it is entirely possible to get a good workout from a Bow flex. But the 45 minutes 3 times a week sounds a bit light to me.