BowFlex Max Total 16 Review

The Most Popular Cardio Brand Machines in the Industry

The BowFlex Max Total 16 is the top notch model in their product line of Max Trainers. The purpose behind Max Trainers is to combine both the benefits of the low impact motion of an elliptical, with the high intensity workout of a stair climber, and put it all into one machine.

BowFlex machines probably the most popular cardio brand machines in the industry. Literally tens of thousands have been sold, and the feedback that we get is that the majority of buyers are satisfied customers. In addition, the Max Total 16 is very efficient in helping users lose weight and get in shape. We recently spoke with the some of the top Bowflex engineers to hear about this top tier Max Trainer model.

BowFlex Max Total 16 Features

Low Impact Workout – The unique design of the Max Total 16 allows the user to burn serious calories with a low impact workout. There is much less impact than running on a treadmill, or even climbing a stair stepper on its own. This significantly reduces the impact to your lower joints. In comparison, when you run the impact can be as much as 2.5 times your body weight and can affect not only your lower joints, but also your back.

Compact Design – For those that have unlimited space for your fitness equipment this will not be an issue, but for those that have space constraints, a Max Trainer from Bowflex can be a great option. The Max Total 16 has dimensions of 49.3″L x 30.8″ W x 65.7″ H. Although its smaller, it doesn’t compromise on stability.

16″ Console –The Max Total 16 really shines in the technology department. The 16″ interactive HD touchscreen console will display your workout stats, as well as let you access the Bowflex JRNY app on screen. The JRNY app is an interactive fitness application that is designed to help you reach your fitness goals at a faster pace, while having more fun too. *Note: At the time of this review, there is a 1-year subscription included in the price of this machine.

Calorie Burn “Game” – The designers at Bowflex are always looking for fun ways to motivate their customers. They incorporated a sort of game with 500 digital dots on the console display.  You can see the dots disappear as the calories melt away.

Heart Rate Tracking – The handlebars on the Max Total 16 feature contact grip heart rate monitoring. In addition, there is a heart rate armband included to let you sync heart rate data via Bluetooth to your smart phone.

Weight/Dimensions – To find the ceiling height required to fit the Max Total 16, add 15 inches to the height of the tallest user. The machine weighs 155.4 lbs. and can support users up to 300 lbs.

Warranty – The parts warranty is subpar at 3-years frame and parts, 1-year electronics, and 90 days labor.

Check out a comparison chart of all Bowflex machines here.

Our Review – BowFlex Max Total 16

The number of BowFlex Max Trainers sold and the high percentage of satisfied customers is the biggest endorsement of this cardio machine. The combination of a low impact unique workout, and compact design are what makes these machines so appealing.

Overall, we give the BowFlex Max Total 16 high marks for a unique design that allows you to burn calories and lose weight without beating up your body.