bowflex xtreme 2 review

Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Review: Is This Home Gyme Worth It?

Few names hold as much weight as Bowflex when it comes to the at-home gym industry. The company is known for producing a wide range of different premium gym accessories, workout plans, and more which has made them a trusted name.

One of their latest product releases is the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE home gym which boasts an impressive list of features that will allow you to get active and achieve your desired fitness goals all from the comfort of your home.

Before buying any at-home gym, you need to make sure that it has all of the capabilities and features you’re looking for. Home gyms can be quite expensive which means that you need to take the purchasing process seriously.

The Xtreme SE 2 gives you the ability to target virtually any muscle group including lats, shoulders, chest, arms, and more. 

Some of the main features you’ll gain access to when using the Xtreme SE 2 are 210lbs of variable resistance, leg extension capabilities, a no-change cable pulley system, and more.

Another great feature about the Xtreme SE 2 is that you literally have the ability to upgrade nearly every component so that the machine is better configured to meet your demands. 

If you’re someone who has been eyeing the Bowflex Xtreme SE 2 as your potential choice for a home gym but needs to know more information, this comprehensive review is exactly what you need.

Continue reading to find out all of the most important facts about the Xtreme SE 2 so that you can make an educated purchase decision on whether or not it’s the right fit for you. 

Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE | Bowflex

The Bowflex Xtreme® 2 SE lets you change exercises more quickly and easily with no cable changes needed between exercises. Now includes ergonomically designed adjustable seat and Ab Crunch Shoulder Harness.

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Contents

Who is the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE for?

bowflex xtreme 2 se

The Bowflex Xtreme SE 2 was made for at-home exercise enthusiasts who want to enhance their physical condition and their fitness levels. The machine delivers robust workout capabilities by offering over 70 different exercise options.

The overall length of the machine is 53in and its width is 49in which makes it relatively small for a fully capable at-home gym with as many features as this one. If you want the ability to add extensions to your at-home gym, the Xtreme 2SE is the perfect option for you because it allows you to expand the capabilities by simply adding on certain attachments that will help you perform specific workouts. 

For all of the features that come packed inside of the Xtreme 2 SE, it’s very affordably priced so you can get all the features you want without shelling out a ton of cash. This assembly process is not that simple however it comes with a manufacturer warranty, so you can always get support when you need it. 

At its core, the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE was made for people who want the experience of a full-blown gym without having to leave their homes. If you’re in the market for a versatile, fully functional, affordable, and compact home gym, the Xtreme 2 SE will suit all of your needs. 

Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE: Pros & Cons 

Any home gym that you buy will come with its own set of unique pros and cons which you need to consider before finalizing your purchase. The Bowflex Xtreme 2 Se is no different as it has various benefits and downsides to consider depending on what your desired workout goals are.

Without understanding the variables which may hinder or assist your journey to achieving the body you’ve always dreamed of, you can’t make an educated purchase decision. Below, we’re going to provide you with a detailed look at all of the pros and cons you can expect to encounter when using the Xtreme 2 SE. 

Pros:

  • Over 70 different exercise options and modes
  • 210lbs of standard resistance w/ the ability to upgrade to 410lbs of resistance 
  • Comes with the Bowflex Body Plan & fitness guide 
  • Ergonomically designed bench seat that gives you the ability to adjust it for an optimal fit 
  • The Power Rods come with a lifetime warranty whereas the machine itself comes with a 7-year protection plan
  • Exclusive Power Rod Resistance technology 

Cons:

  • Assembly process can be complicated 
  • Must pay in order to upgrade the maximum resistance level of the machine 

These are the main pros and cons that you can expect to encounter when using the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE for all of your fitness desire. By taking a look at these factors, you can get a pretty good overall view as to whether or not this machine seems like the right tool for boosting your fitness levels and crafting the body of your dreams.

In-Depth Feature Review: Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE

bowflex xtreme 2 se home gym

Home gyms are all about allowing you to work on your body with the power and flexibility that you would find in commercial gyms alternatives. This is accomplished through a variety of features and capabilities that come with your selected machine, the Xtreme 2 SE is a full-feature home gym that comes with a vast array of configuration options that you can use to target and accomplish your core fitness goals. 

Take a look below to see a comprehensive breakdown of all the primary features and functions that you’ll be able to use after buying the Xtreme 2 SE. Consider any particular exercises and workout goals that you want to achieve so that you can determine whether or not these features can aid you in reaching them. 

Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE | Bowflex

The Bowflex Xtreme® 2 SE lets you change exercises more quickly and easily with no cable changes needed between exercises. Now includes ergonomically designed adjustable seat and Ab Crunch Shoulder Harness.

Check price Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

Features 

Exercise Versatility 

One of the main highlights of the Xtreme 2 SE is that you can perform over 70 different exercises so that you can target virtually any area of your body with ease. By default, you can perform exercises such as lat pulldowns, incline & decline presses, kickbacks, leg extensions & curls, Ab crunches, delt raises, presses, shrugs, lower back extensions, oblique crunches, and more. 

You can reach your arms, shoulders, back, core, chest, and legs all with this one machine which is what makes it so powerful and versatile. 

You can also buy workout attachments that will allow you to further expand on the exercises that this machine allows you to do. The Xtreme 2 SE comes with the following attachments as part of the standard package: squat bar, Ab harness, Angled lat bar, multi-use handgrip, ankle cuffs, and leg developer. With the following attachments, you will be able to perform all of the exercises you want without ever having to step foot out of the house. 

No-Change Cable Pulley System 

The no-change cable pulley system that comes with this at-home gym gives you the ability to switch between various workouts and exercises without the need to change the cable system.

This is a very advanced feature when compared to other at-home gym machines that require you to reposition and rearrange the cable after each successful workout. This feature also cuts down on the total amount of time that you have to spend performing tasks unrelated to working out so that you can get the most out of each session. 

Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Features

Power Rod Backed Resistance 

Power rods are patented technology exclusively available on Bowflex home gym machines. These powerful pieces of equipment are located at the rear of the machine and they are locked into their position.

These rods are the main component that will provide you with adequate resistance throughout your entire workout. To get the right level of resistance for your workout, you need to attach the rods to the device according to the correct cable that will be used during your exercise. 

In the standard package, you will receive power rods that have a maximum resistance potential of 210lbs. You want to keep in mind that every time the rod is bent in a downward position, the overall resistance of the machine will also be decreased.

If you need more resistance, there is no need to worry as you can purchase additional resistance of up to 310lbs or a max of 410lbs with extra power rods. While you do have to make a separate purchase to reach these resistance levels, they are well worth their money and you will see that after using them for a while. 

Max User Weight Capacity 

Before buying any home gym machine, it’s vitally important that you check it’s the maximum user weight capacity. Every home gym comes with a different weight limit and failing to check this before making your purchase can spell disaster. The good news is that the Xtreme 2 SE has a maximum weight capacity of 300lbs making it compatible with most people’s body type. 

Quick Change System

One of the biggest complaints that many people have when it comes to at-home gyms is that they require too much time to set up the machine in between exercises. With the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE, you don’t have to worry about that thanks to its unique quick-change system.

The quick-change system reduces the amount of time that it takes for you to configure your machine in between each exercise so that you can have more efficient workouts. You also won’t have to worry about switching out the pulley cables in between exercises due to the system’s patented design. 

All of these features combine to deliver the powerful exercise capabilities offered by the Xtreme 2 SE. Before you decide to buy this machine, you need to take these variables into consideration so that you can ensure you’re making a purchase that will serve as a long-term investment. 

If the features we just covered don’t seem to meet your needs or desires in terms of exercise capacity, we’ve listed a few of our top alternatives below so that you can find something that better suits you. 

Alternative Recommendations 

1. ICON Fitness Gold’s Gym XRS 50

XRS 50

The ICON Fitness Gold’s Gym XRS 50 comes equipped with a 112lb vinyl weight stack and 280lbs of resistance. You’ll also find that this home gym machine is packing a maximum user weight capacity of 300lbs which means that you will be able to use it without any worries. This home gym comes with an exercise chart that was designed by a certified personal trainer.

The overall build quality of this home gym is very solid and reliable so you won’t have to worry about small mishaps or breaks impacting its performance. Another great feature of this home exercise machine is that it has an integrated multi-grip lat bar and vinyl seats that have been sewn in.

This combination delivers the best of both worlds when it comes to comfort and exercise efficiency. You can perform a wide range of exercises using this home gym, it comes with a 4-roll leg developer and a combined fly station/chest press for added versatility.

To top things all off, you will enjoy a standard 90-day warranty with your purchase of this machine. If you’re looking for a powerful home gym machine that will allow you to maximize your workouts, this is a great choice for you. 

ICON Fitness Gold's Gym XRS 50 | Amazon

Combination Chest Press/Fly Station, 4-Roll Leg Developer; High Pulley to sculpt lats and back muscles, Low Pulley tone glutes and leg muscles.

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2. Marcy 150lb. Stack Home Gym

marcy 988

The Marcy 150lb. Stack Home Gym is made using high-quality 14-gauge steel which provides a solid structure that can withstand an immense amount of weight. This home gym comes with a multifunctional workout station that enables you to perform a plethora of exercises and workouts that target virtually all areas of your body.

This home gym is also equipped with a double pulley system to assist you in performing different leg and arm exercises. You can use several different attachments with this machine such as an abdominal crunch extension piece, leg developer, pec station, and more. 

If you’re looking for a home gym that is feature-packed, durable, and versatile, this home gym may be just what you’re looking for.

Marcy 150lb Stack Home Gym | Amazon
$399.99

This home gym system is made of heavy-duty 14 gauge steel tube frame and vinyl coated for extra durability with a total weight of 150 lbs.

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03/11/2024 12:04 pm GMT

3. Marcy Stack Dual Function Home Gym

marcy 81010

The Marcy Stack Dual Function Home Gym can deliver a maximum weight resistance of up to 200lbs which is more than enough for most people to get in some serious workouts. This home gym machine is manufactured using 14 gauge steel which provides reliability and longevity even when faced with strenuous circumstances.

It also comes with an integrated multi-function arm press which allows you to target different areas of your upper body with ease. The dual design of this home gym makes it super easy for you to switch between exercises without wasting valuable time. 

For safety precautions, this machine utilizes high-density boxed vinyl upholstery with integrated high-density foam so that you stay comfortable and stable while exercising. It also has a stack cover made from solid steel so you are totally protected from any accidents. If you want a home gym that delivers flexibility, power, and reliability, this is the one for you. 

Marcy Stack Dual Function Home Gym | Amazon

This stack gym equipment is built with high-density boxed vinyl upholstery with high-density foam to offer premium comfort during workouts. It has a solid steel protective stack cover and a weight stack lock for total user safety.

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FAQs About Bowflex Xtreme 2

Is the Bowflex Xtreme 2 a good Bowflex option? 

The Bowflex Xtreme 2 is a very capable and feature-packed at-home gym that provides a lot of options for users who are interested in amping up their in-home workout routines. Its design makes it perfect for virtually any body type and allows you to make adjustments to that you can optimize your experience. So yes, it is a great Bowflex option. 

What is the difference between the Bowflex Extreme & the Extreme 2?

The primary difference between the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE and the Xtreme SE is that the Xtreme SE 2 allows you to perform up to 70 different exercises while the Xtreme SE only allows you to do about 65 different exercises.

What does a Bowflex 2 weigh?

The Bowflex Xtreme 2 weighs roughly 210 in its standard configuration when you begin to purchase upgrades and enhancements to the machine, it’s weight can get up to 310lbs maximum. 

Our Honest Opinion 

After going through a detailed review of the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE, it’s time to give you our honest opinion about the machine. When it comes down to it, the Xtreme 2 SE is possibly one of the best mid-tier home gym options available on the market.

Its cutting-edge design in addition to the built-in functionality enhancements which make working out much more efficient is what propels the Xtreme 2 SE to the top of our recommended list. 

It’s relatively low-cost and comes with the right dimensions to fit inside virtually any interior space you may have. While the assembly process can be quite complex and confusing, the time and effort are well worth the results you’ll see after using the Xtreme SE 2. 

Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE | Bowflex

The Bowflex Xtreme® 2 SE lets you change exercises more quickly and easily with no cable changes needed between exercises. Now includes ergonomically designed adjustable seat and Ab Crunch Shoulder Harness.

Check price Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

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