Diane Sue

Brie,
First off do you have access to something to do leg extensions and leg curls? Those exercises are really good for quad & hamstring definition. I am not sure why you do not use your universal gym, but wonder if you would use the Bowflex if you don't use the other. 92 lbs. that is a lot. I got 85 on my shoulders once and couldn't get it back over my head to get it off. It took a lot of maneuvering to reach out and unscrew the collar to shove weight plates off. No one was there to help. With the Bowflex mine only goes to 310 lbs. max. They have newer ones that you can upgrade higher than that. I use the full 310 lb resistance for leg presses and calves so cannot advance beyond that. It does take a little more work to put on the leg extension attachment and to set up for squats. Not as quick as the infomercials show. Most other exercises are quick to set up. The newer ones may be better. Before the Bowflex I had an old Diversified Products weight setup that folded up against the wall. It went to 200 lbs.. I used that in conjunction with the Firms and later Cathe. The pulleys and cables finally started breaking after about 10 years. I do use the Bowflex for upper body some but not as much as lower. Every once in awhile I will do a few weeks of only Bowflex for a change. I am not sure if this helps you or not. I like the Bowflex for more back, triceps, & chest options. I sometimes use it as an add on to Cathe's workouts. I varied methods has helped my muscle developement.
Diane Sue
 
Thanks for the review up there. When you refer to the weights on the bow flex.....you mentioned up above that you do chest on an incline and use 40 in each hand. Is the reason that you can go so heavy because the weight is stabilized by the machine (vs. having to stabilize free weights yourself which translates into using a lighter weight??). Am I making sense? When you do squats on the bowflex...how much are you doing? I am wondering how it compares to a squat rack weight wise. I don't use my Universal Gym much because I can't lay down to do leg curls on it. I can only do seated extensions and my quads are doing fine....I really need some hamstring development and I'd love a leg press. I found that squats seem to work the best for tush and upper (back) thigh development in my case...I just can't live without them. I'd REALLY like to be able to go heavier on squats. Thanks again for all your help.

Briee
 
Briee,
Because Bowflex uses cables and power rods it has a whole different feel as opposed to Free weights. I use up to 240lbs of resistance on the Bowflex. I do not believe it is really the same as that much weight in free weights. I just know it works. You might just want to invest in a squat rack if that is all you are wanting it for. It would be a whole lot less costly. I know what you mean about having so many things taking up space. I would like to get something so that I can do pull ups and hanging leg raises but know it would take up more room.
Diane Sue
 
Hi Diane Sue,

I know I already e-mailed you telling you how great you looked in your new pictures. I just wanted to tell you again and let you know you are an inspiration.

Keep up the great work!!

Beverly
 
Thanks again DS. I'm going to have to look out for a deal on a bowflex when we're able. Again your pictures are an inspiration to me also!!

Briee
 
Hi Beverly.

I just wanted to say...I took a peek at your web page and, I hope you don't mind me saying it, but you look awesome yourself, girl! I would love to have your physique!

Take Care!

~Wendy~

We don't stop laughing because we grow old; We grow old because we stop laughing...Put more laughter into your life.
 
Wendy,

Thanks!! :7

I have improved a tad since July. I need to post a few more pictures, seeing my results helps me progress and see what direction I want to go.

Beverly
 
Thanks again everyone. Wendy you are right Beverly does have an enviable physique. She has some great ab and leg developement. Briee maybe you could watch the paper or find a fitness equipment store that has a used Bowflex. I am not sure how the warranty would be though.
Diane Sue
 

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