Bowflex Max 3 Review (Updated in 2021)
Max 3 Overview
The Bowflex Max M3 is the first entry on the Max Series and it’s a great entry-level full-body trainer that combines the wonders of ellipticals and stairmasters. This budget-friendly Bowflex Max M3 elliptical will allow you to enjoy intense and satisfying workouts that will get you closer and closer to your fitness goals. This Bowflex Max cross trainer is well-reviewed by users and professionals, so you can trust this is a great option to consider. The way this machine engages your upper body will allow you to burn more calories and lose fat a lot more effectively. It’s also a great home elliptical for building and toning lean muscle.
The Bowflex Max M3 elliptical cross trainer is packed with features that are meant to suit beginner, intermediate, and advanced users. The Max Series is known for providing home equipment that will provide intense workout sessions that are still low-impact and go easy on user’s knees and shins. Among the many features, the Bowflex Max M3 elliptical machine provides 8 resistance levels, 2 workout programs, a heart-rate monitor, tablet holder, water bottle holder, warranty, and more.
Usually, trainers provide a lot more workout program options, but you can still take advantage of the two workout programs by using the 8 resistance levels to challenge yourself. The Bowflex Max M3 elliptical trainer has a maximum user weight capacity of 300 pounds, which means it can accommodate multiple users and it can withstand a lot more intensity than other machines with a lower weight capacity. The Bowflex Max M3 elliptical is super sturdy and stable, so you will feel confident and comfortable during your workouts. In today’s Bowflex Max M3 review, we will discuss all the features in-depth so you can determine if this is a good fit for you.
| Console:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | 4⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Bluetooth:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | No⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ |
| Heart Rate: | Pulse and Chest Strap | Power Source: | AC Adapter |
| USB Charging Port: | No | Display: | Back-lit/LED |
| Drive: | Vertical | Flywheel Weight: | N/A |
| Warranty: | 3-Year Parts | 90-Day Labor | Compact: | Yes |
| Machine Weight: | 130 Lbs | Folding: | No |
| Dimensions: | 49"L X 25"W X 65"H | Speaker: | No |
| Max user weight: | 300 Lbs | Cooling Fan: | No |
| Resistance: | 8-Level Air-magnetic | Media Shelf: | Yes |
| Incline Ramp: | Fixed | Bottle Holder: | Yes |
| Stride Length: | Fixed | Handlebars: | No Built-in Controls |
| Programs: | 2 | Verdict: | Good Value Under $1000 |
Bowflex Max M3 Review and Specs:
The Bowflex Max M3 weight capacity stands at 300 pounds, which is great because the higher the maximum user weight, the more stable will the machine be during super intense workouts. The Bowflex M3 machine dimensions are 46″ L x 25″ W x 63″ H, which means this is a super-compact machine. If you don’t have much space in your home gym, the Max Trainer M3 can be the perfect option for you. It has a footprint of 46 by 25 inches, so it will fit in the tightest of spaces.
The Bowflex Max M3 weighs 143 pounds, so it’s not difficult to move around. It’s not foldable, so you won’t be able to tuck it away, but since it’s such a compact and light machine, you won’t have an issue moving it when you need to. When it comes to Bowflex Max m3 ceiling height requirement, you will need the ceiling to be 15” taller than you are.
The Bowflex Max M3 will accommodate users from 5’4” to 6’8” tall, so multiple users under one roof will be able to take advantage of this machine. Overall, the Max M3 is designed to be used by users of multiple levels of expertise but it’s also very accommodating when it comes to height and weight. It will be comfortable for multiple users, which means everyone at home will be able to take advantage of this elliptical. In the rest of our Bowflex Max M3 review, we’ll focus on all the features and accessories it has to offer, so let’s continue!
Bowflex Max M3 Monitor
The Bowflex Max M3 provides two workout programs, a 14 minute interval and a manual program you can set up yourself. Other machines in the series provide more options, but since this is an affordable, entry-level machine, you get only 2 programs. However, the Bowflex Max m3 provides 8 resistance levels, which means these programs can still be challenging, not only for beginners, but also for intermediate and advanced users. What’s more, these 2 programs are the most popular ones, so you will be happy with them.
The Bowflex Max M3 also provides two user profiles, which makes it perfect for couples or roommates. This way, each user can have their own profile. When it comes to display, the Bowflex Max M3 offers the basic. It’s not an HD touchscreen display and it’s not backlit, so it can be difficult to read at night unless you have good lighting in the room. The LCD display is quite simple compared to other models at this price point, but it still provides calorie burn and other important data.
The Bowflex Max M3 heart monitoring includes a wireless chest strap you can use to keep track of your heart rate during your workouts. There are also contact grip heart rate monitors, but they don’t seem to be as accurate as the chest strap, so that’s something to keep in mind. For some people, using a wireless chest strap is a bit inconvenient, but it does provide much better and more accurate information so it may be worth it. The display of the M3, though basic, is well-designed and features indicators that are super easy to read.
Bowflex Max M3 Stride and Incline
The Bowflex Max M3 doesn’t have stride and it doesn’t have incline either. This is because the Bowflex Max is a combination of an elliptical and a stepper, so it’s different than a standard elliptical. As such, it has an elliptical path that’s almost entirely vertical. It has a vertical 10-inch motion range and a horizontal 4-inch motion range. This means the Bowflex Max M3 puts the focus heavily on users thighs and glutes. So, you’ll be able to tone your leg muscles and also enjoy an intense cardio workout that’s still easy on your joints.
The spacing between the pedals, which is known as Q-factor, is narrow on the Bowflex Max M3 with only 1.5 inches. This means that you will enjoy a natural feet position when you’re using the Bowflex Max M3 and it won’t put stress on your knees and ankles. Overall, the Bowflex Max M3 is super low-impact and it’s a great entry-level machine for users of all levels of expertise. Everyone can take advantage of this exercise equipment!
Considering the Bowflex Max M3 elliptical path is almost entirely vertical, user height won’t be an issue. It accommodates users up to 6’8”, so it’s perfect and comfortable for a wide variety of people. As long as you don’t exceed the maximum user weight capacity, this machine is perfect for a home gym with more than one user. The Bowflex Max M3 will easily help you reach your fitness goals no matter what size you are.
Bowflex Max M3 Handlebars and Pedals
The Bowflex Max M3 features mobile and fixed handlebars. The Bowflex Max M3 mobile handlebars feature standard long grips and they have an ergonomic design that offers 3 different positions. The control for resistance is also on the handlebars, so you can make changes with a twist-grip to get the most out of your workouts. The moving handlebars are attached to the pulley and pedal system of the machine so they can’t be locked into a stationary position. If you pedal, they will move.
The Bowflex Max M3 fixed handlebars have a short grip and they feature the pulse sensors. Just remember you can also use the wireless heart rate chest strap for a more accurate heart rate reading. Both sets of handlebars are rubberized so users can be a lot more comfortable. Then we have the Bowflex Max M3 pedals, which are standard in design and super spacious. They’re designed to minimize the impact on your joints and your back. The Bowflex Max M3 pedals have large trays to accommodate athletic shoes of all sizes. They also feature rubberized and ribbed inserts for additional cushioning and foot adherence.
Another great thing about the Bowflex Max m3 pedals is that they’re articulated to adapt to your foot position with each step you take during your workouts. The pedals and internal joints of the Bowflex M3 are highly durable and they can support up to 300 pounds, which is great for a home gym. Overall, the handlebars and pedals on this machine add to the overall comfort of the workouts and they’re great features because they’re designed with the comfort of users in mind.
Bowflex Max M3 Accessories and Assembly
The Bowflex Max M3 comes with a reading rack ledge, which is wide enough to work as a tablet holder as well. The Max M3 also has a water bottle holder so you can remain hydrated during your workout. However, those are the only accessories you are going to get from this machine. The Bowflex Max M3 doesn’t have a charging port, speakers, cooling fans, and it’s not Bluetooth enabled so your tablet will be your source of entertainment.
When it comes to assembly, the Bowflex Max M3 is relatively easy to put together. The main body of the Max Trainer M3 comes pre-assembled for you and you’ll need to put together the rest. However, you have an instructions manual to guide you and you can also find videos. Since the main body is already pre-assembled for you, you will need to connect the base frame, the rail bar, handlebars, pedals, console units and other small parts to the main body.
The tools you need to put together the Bowflex Max M3 are all provided for you and the manual is quite detailed. If you don’t want to do this yourself, you can always hire professional help but it will cost you extra. When it comes to maintenance, the internal parts of the Bowflex Max M3 don’t require any. However, you do need to keep your trainer clean and lubricate the wheels or joints when necessary.
Bowflex Max M3 Warranty, Price, and Shipping
The Bowflex Max M3 comes with a standard warranty. They provide a 1-year coverage for parts and 90-day coverage for labor. That’s below average, but users have the opportunity to expand warranty for an additional fee if they want. You can extend warranty to 3-year coverage for parts and labor or 5-year coverage for parts and labor, which will cost up to $130 more.
If you happen to have issues with the machine, the Bowflex customer service has your back. To contact them, all you need to do is call 1 (800) 605 – 3369. If you have any doubts or are experiencing issues with the elliptical, you can contact them and they will clear things up for you.
You will be able to find the Bowflex Max M3 on Amazon for the price of $999 with free shipping. This machine is a great deal and it’s incredibly budget-friendly. If you’re looking for an intense workout at an affordable price, this is the way to go. Sure, it lacks many of the boastful features other trainers have. But you’ll find the Max M3 actually provides exactly what you need, not to mention it can accommodate users of all levels of expertise.
Bowflex Max M3 Pros and Cons
Bowflex Max M3 Final Verdict
The Bowflex Max M3 is a great machine for the price and many users will be happy with what it has to offer. It’s a compact machine that has just the right amount of features and accessories you need to work towards your goals. It’s also long-lasting, low-impact, and super easy to use!
| Review | Image | Verdict | Price | Capacity | Dimensions | Resistance | Programs | Stride | Bluetooth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bowflex BXE326 Elliptical |  | Good Value Under $1500 | Check on Amazon | 400 LBs | 77" L x 31" W x 70" H | 25 Electromagnetic Levels | 11 Workouts | 22" Fixed | Yes |
| Bowflex BXE226 Elliptical |  | Good Value Under $1500 | Check on Amazon | 375 LBs | 77" L x 31" W x 70" H | 25 Electromagnetic Levels | 9 Workouts | 22" Fixed | Yes |
| Bowflex LateralX LX5 |  | Good Value Under $2000 | Check on Amazon | 300 LBs | 63" L x 53" W x 46" H | 10 Electromagnetic Levels | 10 Workouts | Lateral Adjustable | Yes |
| Bowflex LateralX LX3 |  | Good Value Under $1500 | Check on Amazon | 300 LBs | 63" L x 53" W x 46" H | 8 Electromagnetic Levels | 7 Workouts | Lateral Adjustable | Yes |
| Bowflex Max Trainer M3 |  | Good Value Under $1000 | Check on Amazon | 300 LBs | 46" L x 25" W x 63" H | 8 Electromagnetic Levels and Fan Resistance | 2 Workouts | 4" Fore/Aft | 8" Vertical | No |
| Bowflex Max Trainer M5 |  | Good Value Under $1500 | Check on Amazon | 300 LBs | 46" L x 25" W x 63" H | 16 Electromagnetic Levels and Fan Resistance | 9 Workouts | 4" Fore/Aft | 8" Vertical | Yes |
| Bowflex Max Trainer M7 |  | Good Value Under $2000 | Check on Amazon | 300 LBs | 46" L x 30" W x 65" H | 20 Electromagnetic Levels and Fan Resistance | 11 Workouts | 4" Fore/Aft | 8" Vertical | Yes |
| Bowflex Max Trainer M8 |  | Good Value Under $2500 | Check on Amazon | 300 LBs | 49" L x 30" W x 65" H | 20 Electromagnetic Levels and Fan Resistance | 7 Workouts | 4" Fore/Aft | 8" Vertical | Yes |
| Bowflex Max Trainer Total |  | Good Value Under $3000 | Check on Amazon | 300 LBs | 57" L x 34" W x 65" H | 16 Electromagnetic and Fan Resistance | 8 Workouts | 4" Fore/Aft | 8" Vertical | Yes |
Sayed Hamed Hosseiny
Hi, my name is Sayed Hamed Hosseiny. I am a professional health and fitness trainer with nearly 20 years of experience using ellipticals, rowing machines, and spin bikes. I also have my own EU-based Rock Fitness Pro fitness brand where I design, import and sell exercise equipment such as rowing machines and spin bikes. I and writers on my team also often receive fitness equipment to review and evaluate their functionalities and performance from tens of different exercise machines manufacturers. Fitness equipment tips, guides, reviews, and comparisons on this website are my opinion (and opinions of my fitness expert colleagues) based on tens of criteria. I never accept payment to write reviews of products or say positive things about fitness equipment products. If brands are interested to have me review their rowers, ellipticals, or spin bikes, they can get in touch with me via email provided on the contact page and send a sample of their product.
