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A home gym starts with a premium cardio machine and that’s where Bowflex excels.
A lot of people want a high-value machine that is going to be jam-packed with relevant features. This includes wanting to find something that is well-made and is going to work well in a wide array of situations.
The Bowflex Max Total 16 promises to do all of this and aims to be an all-encompassing fitness solution for those wanting a good cardio machine.
Does it live up to the hype? Is it good enough for your home gym?
This detailed review is going to dig into what the MT16 is all about and figure out if it’s the right choice for you.
Why We Love the Bowflex Max Total 16: Best Features and Benefits
Contents
1. 6-Grip Handlebars
One of the benefits of a world-class machine is the finer details, which is the first thing you are going to notice with the MT16.
This machine has been crafted with a high level of care and it is the touching points that win. This includes the handlebars, which are designed using a 6-grip setup.
This means you are going to have a 6-grip solution where the hands are going to hold on.
This attention to detail is impressive and allows you to work up a sweat without worrying about the hands slipping. If you want grip, you are going to get it here right away.
2. Oversized Pedals
The pedals are one thing you are going to worry about when it comes to the machine and how well it works once set up.
If you are someone that is looking to get the right type of pedals, you will enjoy what this machine has to offer.
The MT16 has an oversized design, which means they will take on all types of feet without missing a beat. You are going to enjoy the textured finish under your feet once you start working out.
The benefits include:
- Great For Larger Feet
- Textured Finish
A person that is particular about how their feet feel during a workout should enjoy the perks of something like this.
It will impress you and the value will be there from day one.
3. 16″ Adjustable Touchscreen
It is the touchscreen that is magical and something you are going to appreciate as soon as it is turned on.
The 16″ display is magnificent to look at and touch. You are going to notice the vibrant colors pop off of the screen and that is what makes it highly appealing.
Everything about the screen has been crafted with care allowing you to adjust it on the go. You can make sure it is set at a height that’s easy to view while working out.
4. Built-In Media Shelf
The machine comes with a beautiful media shelf for your devices.
You can hop onto the machine knowing your phone is going to be within reach at all times. This can be useful for those who don’t want to set aside the phone.
The benefits include:
- Ideal for All Phones
- Built To Last
With this media shelf, you will not have to think about how the phone is going to do nor will you have to keep it in your pocket while working out.
Just set it on the media shelf and know you are good to go.
The phone isn’t going to slip away and it is going to work out the way you want it to.
The Connected Workout Experience: Bowflex JRNY
1. On-Demand Content
One of the primary advantages of a machine like this is app integration. With the JRNY app, you are getting something that is powerful, refined, and full of enriching content.
The team behind the app continues to update the app with fresh content throughout the month.
You will always have something fun to do once you are on the app. Just take a look around, swipe through, and take advantage of on-demand content at all hours of the day.
This is what makes it one of the more impressive elements of the app.
2. Live Streaming
Are you someone that wants to follow along with a qualified instructor?
You are going to gain access to premium instructors through the JRNY app. This is powerful information for those who want to learn more about what they are doing and what works best moving forward.
You will gain access to premium content and this will be live-streamed on the go.
The benefits include:
- Great Instructors
- Learn The Technique Properly
This will always keep you on your toes and push you hard.
The beauty of working out with the instructor is learning how to use the machine wisely while pushing yourself hard.
3. Constant Updates
While the JRNY app is great because of how much content is available in the collection, you are never going to get bored with it.
The reason for this has to do with the constant updates that stream in.
There is always new content coming onto the app making it easier for you to try out something unique. Whether you are a beginner or someone that has been doing this for a long time, the joy of new on-demand content is always refreshing.
Size and Specs
- Dimensions: 49.3″ L x 30.8″ W x 65.7″ H
- Total Weight (Assembled): 155.4 Lbs.
- Total Weight Capacity: 300 Lbs.
Pros & Cons
Pros
1. Great Display
The one thing you are going to appreciate about this machine has to be the display.
With 16″ of real estate, this is a machine that does it all and will glow as soon as you turn it on. If you are someone that wants to look at a beautiful display then you are not going to be disappointed here.
This has been made with a purpose and it is adjustable too.
It’s an ideal option for anyone that is using the machine.
2. Easy To Use
If you are a beginner, you are going to like the MT16.
It is easy to use because of the adjustments that are possible throughout the machine. This includes the touchscreen, pedals, and everything in between.
You can easily learn how to use the touchscreen and make sure the resistance levels are set to what you want.
The benefits include:
- Quick Transitions Between Levels
- Great App Integration
Just having this type of control is going to provide comfort and make sure you are happy with the value you’re getting.
3. Robust Design
A key detail people have to think about before buying any type of fitness machine has to do with the build quality. You should never settle for less and you don’t have to here.
This is a fitness machine that has been engineered with a purpose and it works well.
This includes not rattling when you are going all out on the machine. It will remain quiet and allow you to concentrate on the work you are putting in.
4. 20 Resistance Levels
When you are working out, it becomes important to switch through resistance levels as much as possible. You are going to want to up the difficulty and that is only possible when there are resistance levels to make it happen.
The benefits include:
- Easy To Operate
- Ideal for Beginners & Experienced Users
With the MT16, you are not going to get a few resistance levels. Instead, you are going to get 20 resistance levels to toggle through as you please.
This makes HIIT sessions a breeze as you will be able to fine-tune it down to the last detail.
5. Great Streaming Options
You might be someone that is thinking about hopping onto the machine and beginning working out while watching a show or movie.
If that is something you are into then it makes sense to start with good streaming options.
There are several streaming options available through this machine including Netflix, Hulu, Prime, and Disney+.
Cons
1. High Upfront Cost
The only issue you are going to have with the MT16 has to do with its cost.
It is a pricey machine and that is something you have to consider beforehand. It is a newer machine and it comes at a real cost that you will have to budget for.
That said, if you’re looking for a cheaper option the Bowflex M6 and M9 are more affordable alternatives to the MT16.
RELATED READING: We Compare all Max Trainers
How Much Does the Max Total 16 Cost?
- Bowflex Max Total 16 – $2,799
- *Current price at the time of publication – see most up-to-date pricing options at Bowflex website
Does it Come with a Warranty?
Bowflex has done a good job with the warranty program.
You gain access to a 3-year parts and labor warranty policy on the MT16. This is one of the better policies on the market right now and fully protects your machine.
Summary: Is the Max Total Right for You?
The MT16 is a world-class option and one that has all the perks you could ever want from a modern-day cardio machine.
It is easy-to-use, well-designed, and can handle all types of users.
You should buy an MT16 if you…
- Want As Many Features As Possible
- Require Numerous Resistance Levels
- Budget Is Not An Issue
- You Want a Large Display for Streaming Workouts and Entertainment
- You Do Regular HIIT Sessions
