The Bowflex Max Trainer M3 Entry Level Hybrid Machine

Overview: The Bowflex Max Trainer M3 is the base model in the popular series of hybrid machines, offering an elliptical and a stepper in one. It features the exclusive Max Trainer 14-Minute Workout, which promises to burn up to 2.5x as many calories per minute as the typical elliptical trainer.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the best features…

Compact Size

One of the most appealing features that all of the Bowflex Max Trainers share is a compact footprint that makes them the ideal choice for most home environments.

They are only 49″ long, which is almost half of the size of the typical elliptical trainer. The M3 is also only 143 lbs, and with the included transport wheels the machine is very easy to move from one place to another. So for those looking for a space saving machine, the M3 certainly fits the bill.

Low Impact/Effective Workouts

The M3 offers a very low impact workout, so it’s much easier on your joints than a traditional treadmill or elliptical. It also offers more upper body engagement with its multi-grip handlebars, 8 different resistance levels and a calorie-burning workout with the 14 minute interval program, without having to run to achieve results.

So all in all, the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 will help you meet your fitness goals without stress on your joints and without having to be on the machine for hours at a time.

If you are looking for a little more workout variety, take a look at the up-level M6 Max Trainer, which has 9 different built in workouts to choose from.

Additional Nice Features

The Max Trainer M3 also comes with a heart rate chest strap for accurate wireless monitoring, an LCD/LED display showing your workout metrics, a cool Burn Meter with your calorie expenditure, a water bottle holder and 2 user profiles.

So those are the main features…now let’s get into the more important part of our review – the test drive.

Bowflex Max Trainer M3 Test Drive – How’s the Workout?

We’ve tested out all three models, including the newer Max Trainer M8, and we have to say we give positive reviews to all of them. They achieve what they set out to do, which is to give you a good, solid workout in a relatively short amount of time.

The M3 is the base model in the series, so it definitely lacks many of the features and capabilities of the M6 and M8, but that is always the case with the entry level model.

For example, besides Manual Mode there is only one workout to choose, which is the Max 14 Minute Interval workout. This is a very good workout, and by the end of it we were feeling pretty good, but we like a little more variety when it comes to programming.

As we mentioned, the M6 offers 9 workouts…the new M8 offers offers 11 workouts. So when it comes to the Max Trainer M3 vs M6 vs M8, just know that you get more variety with the higher level models.

The 8 resistance levels are good, but again you get 16 levels on the M6 and 20 on the M8.

The M3 also does not give you the ability to sync your workouts to the free Max Intelligence app, a nice tool that tracks all of your workouts, allows you to set goals and win awards for your achievements.

Again, you have to upgrade to the M6 or M8 for that capability. If keeping tab on your workouts is not a main concern, then this shouldn’t be an issue for you.

So at the end of the day, the M3 is perfectly fine for those of you looking for a low impact workout that will target different muscle groups and help you burn a lot of calories without having to run. If you want a little variety and a few more features, take a look at the two up-level models.

Bowflex Max Trainer M3 Review – Conclusion

The Max Trainers are huge sellers for Bowflex, due to their compact size and low impact, calorie-burning workouts. The M3 is also very affordable, at only $999 on sale, so it’s a pretty good value for what you are getting.

For reference, the M6 is about $1,699 and the M8 is $2,299, so they get pricey as you move up the ladder.

But if the idea of a half elliptical and half stepper appeals to you, and space is a concern, the Max Trainer M3 is definitely not a bad choice for your home gym. The company also offers free shipping and a money back guarantee, making the purchase more appealing.