Do you guys recommend the one-size-fits-all home gyms (like Bowflex)?

[Chaotic42]

I'm overweight, and I realize that the answer to that issue is proper diet and daily cardio. I hate cardio, but I do have a treadmill that I've gotten a lot of use out of. I'd like to supplement that with some strength training. I'm not looking to get ripped, just healthy.

I know that a proper gym is the best way to go about that, but I know myself and I'm unlikely to go to the gym on a regular basis. I'd much rather workout at home.

I've been looking over the forums and a couple of years ago there was a discussion about the Bowflex and the consensus was kind of... meh. I'm wondering if that's still the case. I'm 6'2" and about 240 pounds and I have an area which about about 6'x6' where I'd put my equipment (not including the treadmill).

I like the idea of the machine because it will lower my risk of injury and will allow me to do many different exercises. Does anyone have any input or advice?

Thanks

 

[VulgarDisplay]

You could probably buy a decent power rack and some weights for around the same amount. That would allow you to progress from beginner workouts to more advanced things with just one setup.

Also the machine increases your risk of injury because it forces you to do unnatural motions.

 

[tcG]

I find calisthenics (stuff like push-ups, body-weight squats, et. al.) much easier to do routinely than either going to a gym or working out in a home gym. You might want to look into those.

And like you said, diet, diet, diet. I would try to have a somewhat paleo diet. Lots of whole vegetables, meat, and fats, and less carbs/fruits than you probably eat now.

 

[MustISO]

We have a bowflex and for what we paid (way back) it probably would have been a better idea to get a weight station. I still use the bowflex almost every day but when I do go to a gym I like to use the targeted weight machines.

I'd check locally to find a good condition used model. People buy these and sell them cheap just to get them out of the house.

 

[OILFIELDTRASH]

Power rack: ppr200x $390 shipped Amazon
300lb Olympic weight set can be found under $150 @ academy


I wouldn't even waste the gas required to pick up a free bowflex machine. Maybe to resell it for $100 but absolute garbage IMO. A real quality home gym type machine would easily run you over $2000.

 

[OILFIELDTRASH]

Also forgot to include a bench.

Ironmaster superbench. Look on Ironmaster.com and look for the package deal which includes the bench with dips and sit up attachments for $350.

If you are not willing to spring for at least this level of quality equipment that I've suggested then you need to find a gym.

 

[IHateMyJob2004]

Your area is only 6'x6'?

People seem to be ignoring this. You might want to boldface it in your first post.

A standard Olympic bar is 7' long. People recommending racks and Olympic sets seem to be ignoring how much room you have.

What is your budget?

I'll say one thing. Do something. That is what you want to do. So if you can only fit a Bowflex, get one. I personally would recommend a rack/bench/Olympic set if you had the room which you don't.

Consider joining a Gym (YMCA). It might be easier till you have more room. I know you said that you don't want to do this. But it might be your best option.

 

[Chaotic42]

I ended up joining a gym next to my office today. I got a good rate and I can go in before work and get my workout done, shower, then walk to the office. I think it will work out for the best.

Thanks to everyone for your advice.

 

[SociallyChallenged]

I ended up joining a gym next to my office today. I got a good rate and I can go in before work and get my workout done, shower, then walk to the office. I think it will work out for the best.

Thanks to everyone for your advice.

Nice, sounds like that was a good choice.

 

[brad310]

good luck to you.

I was going to say get you a couple of dumbbells, maybe a set of 10s' and 20's, a pullup bar, and get ahold of the p90x.