Weight Training: Bowflex system or Free Weights/Bench?

[Anonymous]

We're thinking of purchasing equipment for weight training at home, and wondering whether we're better off buying a full system (xtreme 2) (around $1K) or separate bench, adjustable barbells, etc. ($800). Opinions welcome!

[Anonymous]

I have the adjustable Bowflex barbells. They are just too large for me (female) and I do peloton and they are a pain to switch out.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I have the adjustable Bowflex barbells. They are just too large for me (female) and I do peloton and they are a pain to switch out.

You are me! I also have the adjustable bow flex barbells and do peloton weightlifting classes, and am female. I love them, though. They allow adjustments by 2.5 lbs at the lower weights so they work great as a not super strong person. I can lift 22.5 lbs per hand, for example, whereas normally you have to go from 20 to 25 and that's a big jump. I'd recommend free weights over bowflex just due to versatility.

[Anonymous]

I'd rather do free weights. You have many more options and you can go on Youtube to look up classes. It takes up less room. Switching adjustable weights would be such a pain. I do one exercise at 10 pounds, the next at 12 etc. Then repeat 3x. I'd hate to switch it so often. Also a Bowflex will require maintenance and can break.