At first glance, the differences between the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 and the Bowflex M8 can be hard to spot. Even when you get to know more about them, the stories sound the same. They’re both steps up from previous step-meets-elliptical machines (the M5 and M7), sharing an impressive list of features:
- Compatible with Bowflex JRNY™ App
- Larger repositioned console
- Magnetic media rack for tablet or smartphone
- USB charging port
- Hand-grip EKG heart rate sensors
- Bluetooth® heart rate compatible
- Enhanced color scheme
- Unique calorie burn rate display
- Multi-grip, dynamic handles
- Heart rate monitor (integrated contact grips)
Both can do workout wonders via Max Intelligence™ – an interactive, self-customizing training innovation – or fantastic next-generation apps like the intuitively motivating Bowflex JRNY™ and the virtually globetrotting Explore the World™.
However, if you’re set on bringing a Max Trainer home (and why wouldn’t you be? They’re fantastic!), there are some key differences that should weigh into your buying decision:
Console:
M6: A backlit single console window display with media shelf for your tablet or phone - plus a calorie burn meter updating by the minute
M8: An upgraded LCD, 2 window console display that’s larger and easier to read, a premium media shelf with more room for your phone, keys, etc., and a more colorful calorie burn meter that is also larger, making it more visible.
Upper Body Arms:
M6: Straight, cushioned upper body arm bars that are cushioned for your comfort
M8: Longer, curved, cushioned arm bars, offering more possible hand positions and a wider range of upper body development motions
Levels of Resistance:
M6: 16 levels – A very respectable range of challenges that will take a while for newer users to work through
M8: 20 levels – Are you already in great shape? Looking for more fitness challenges? The M8’s four extra resistance levels are ready to test you on those assertions.
Built-in Workouts:
M6: 5 built-in workouts will give most exercisers plenty to build on, while easily backing your Max Trainer’s promise of an effective workout in a very short time.
M8: 7 built-in workouts – Two more workouts might not mean much if you plan to make full use of the Max Intelligence feature – which include a lot of dynamic, customized workouts. However, it is valuable to those who like pre-structured, pre-designed workouts.
Connectivity:
M6: Up to 2 users – Great for couples or competitive roommates
M8: Up to 4 users – Great for the families (or more roommates)
Price:
Here’s where the M6 shines – especially if the few hundreds of dollars between these models is the difference between you buying or not buying a Max Trainer.
So ...
Although the big question might be how much you’re willing to spend for extras, it shouldn’t be the only one you ask. Pondering the smaller questions might help you answer the big one: How many users will want to share your machine? Are you new to this kind of training and looking for an uncomplicated start, or are you an experienced athlete willing to pay more for a bigger challenge? You also need to consider how either machine would fit into your life – in terms of space, the time you have to train, and of course, your budget. You may not need some features. Perhaps you already have an upper body routine you like so you don’t need the longer, curvier handles of the M8. And if none of these considerations help you make your decision, you have one more determining standard to investigate – possibly the best one: How these machines feel?
Flaman Fitness features Canada’s largest Bowflex showroom, so you can get on both machines and find out what each has to offer. You’ll also have the benefit of professional advice from our experts, who can assess your fitness requirement and experience to help you find the M6 or M8 for you. Drop by your nearest Flaman Fitness location – it’s a healthy first step that could lead to many more!