Bowflex Max 8 Review (Updated in 2021)
Max 8 Overview
The Bowflex Max M8 elliptical was introduced to the Max Series to replace the Bowflex Max 7, which was discontinued. Soon to be replaced by Bowflex Max total, the Bowflex Max M8 is a combination between an elliptical and a stepper and it provides a full-body, no-impact workout that’s perfect for many different users. The Bowflex Max M8 elliptical trainer is designed for people of all fitness levels and it provides a challenge for everyone. If you’re looking for a machine that will help you lose weight quickly and get toned, this is perfect for you.
The Bowflex Max M8 elliptical cross trainer is packed with many amazing features that will help you reach your fitness goals. It includes 20 automatic resistance levels, dual-mode LCD and LED screens, 29 workout programs, a 300-pound maximum weight capacity, 4 user levels, and amazing handlebars and pedals, among other things. The Bowflex Max M8 home elliptical is a great option for many people and even though it’s on the expensive side, it’s a smart investment because it’s sturdy, long-lasting, powerful, and you won’t outgrow it.
In today’s Bowflex Max M8 review, we’ll be looking at everything this trainer has to offer so you can determine if it’s the right fit for your home gym. You’ll be happy to know that the Bowflex Max M8 is one of the most recommended trainers by Bowflex out there. It’s not perfect, but it covers users’ needs wonderfully and it’s a great option for anyone who wants to have a ton of workout options in a single machine. If you’re a beginner and you don’t have ambitious fitness goals, you’ll be better off with the Max M3, which is an entry-level machine. But if you want to push yourself, the Max M8 could be the right choice for you!
| Console:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | 4⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Bluetooth:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Yes⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ |
| Heart Rate: | Pulse and Chest Strap | Power Source: | AC Adapter |
| USB Charging Port: | No | Display: | Back-lit/LED |
| Drive: | Vertical | Flywheel: | N/A |
| Warranty: | 3-Year Parts | 90-Day Labor | Compact: | Yes |
| Machine Weight: | 148 Lbs | Folding: | No |
| Dimensions: | 49"L X 30"W X 65"H | Speaker: | No |
| Max user weight: | 300 Lbs | Cooling Fan: | No |
| Resistance: | 20-Level Electromagnetic | Media Shelf: | Yes |
| Incline Ramp: | Fixed | Bottle Holder: | Yes |
| Stride Length: | Fixed | Handlebars: | No Built-in Controls |
| Programs: | 29 | Verdict: | Good Value Under $2500 |
Bowflex Max M8 Review and Specs:
The Bowflex Max M8 has a maximum user weight capacity of 300 pounds which is great because it means it accommodates users of all sizes. Also, the higher the weight capacity, the more stable the machine will be, especially during intense workout sessions. The Bowflex Max M8 dimensions are 49″ L x 30.5″ W x 65.5″ H. However, it has a small footprint and it won’t take up much space. If your home gym is on the small side, you won’t have a problem finding a spot for it.
The Bowflex Max M8 ceiling requirements demand that your ceiling is at least 15 inches taller than you are. The Bowflex Max M8 is also portable, but it’s not foldable. That means you won’t be able to fold it up and tuck it away whenever you need, but you will be able to move it around without effort. The Bowflex Max M8 power source is AC power, which is great because if it ran on batteries, it would be a constant expense.
Overall, the Bowflex Max M8 provides the same high level of quality the Max Series is known for. It’s suitable for different types of users and it’s designed for trainees of all fitness levels, so it will prove challenging for anyone. The Bowflex Max M8 is super durable and sturdy, not to mention it’s also effective and packed with features. Let’s continue with the Bowflex Max M8 review to learn what more it has to offer!
Bowflex Max M8 Monitor
The Bowflex Max M8 features enhanced dual mode LCD/LED screens, which provide all your stats and they’re also super easy to read. What’s more, you have the option of purchasing a Samsung Galaxy E 9.6 tablet for the Bowflex Max M8. This tablet could be entirely dedicated to your fitness and help you manage your stats, nutrition, exercise routines, progress, and more. The Bowflex Max M8 offers Bluetooth connectivity, so you’ll be able to connect to your fitness apps and more. You’ll also be able to set up 4 user profiles on the Bowflex Max M8.
Perhaps the more outstanding feature about the Bowflex Max M8 is the fact that you have access to the Max Intelligence Platform app. With a monthly subscription, you’ll be able to unlock the full capability of the app and create custom workout plans thanks to the initial fitness test. This test will push you to reach your maximum output, baseline, and endurance potential. This information is then used to create dynamic workouts for you, tailored to your needs.
The Bowflex Max M8 offers 29 on-demand workout videos led by instructor via the Bowflex Max Intelligence app. If you don’t want to pay the subscription to gain access to all these workout programs, you’ll still have access to 17 free workout programs that will challenge you no matter your fitness levels. The Bowflex Max M8 also offers integrated heart rate monitor via the touch grip on the handlebars to keep an eye on your heart rate. Overall, the Bowflex Max M8 offers powerful options when it comes to workouts and it will help you understand your fitness needs.
Bowflex Max M8 Stride and Incline
The Bowflex Max M8 offers full-body workouts that are easy on your joints. The use of dynamic coach technology will allow trainees to have a better workout experience as well, so it’s a very efficient option if you want to enjoy real changes. Because the Bowflex Max M8 is a combination between an elliptical and a stepper, it provides the stride of an elliptical and the incline of a stepper. These are not adjustable, though.
The Bowflex Max M8 offers 20 resistance levels, which is what makes this machine so versatile for beginner, intermediate, and advanced trainees. The wide range of resistance levels works perfectly for all fitness levels and it accommodates different kinds of users. The resistance levels are what allow you to challenge yourself, so the more options you have, the better you’ll be able to tailor your workout to your goals and your needs.
The Bowflex Max M8 also has a short Q-Factor at 1.5 inches. The Q-Factor, which refers to the space between the pedals, plays an important role in the user’s comfort. At 1.5 inches, you will enjoy a more natural feet positioning, which means motion will be much more comfortable and there will be no lateral stress on your knees and ankles. Overall, the Bowflex Max M8 is a great machine that will fit a variety of users and provide all of them a comfortable, secure, and safe workout experience.
Bowflex Max M8 Handlebar and Pedals
The Bowflex Max M8 is equipped with two sets of handlebars. First, the Bowflex Max M8 features mobile handlebars with a multi-grip design. This design allows users to try different grip positions to engage their upper-body how they see fit and enjoy comfort as well. The Bowflex Max M8 also offers fixed handlebars that feature pulse sensors. These handlebars are great for when you don’t want to engage your upper body during your workout sessions and they allow you to keep track of your heart rate as well.
The Bowflex Max M8 features heavy-duty pedals. These pedals are athletic foot pedals and they provide a solid grip. The pedals are also oversized, so it will accommodate all sizes. The Bowflex Max M8 offers the best handlebars and pedals. It’s clear they paid a lot of attention to user comfort with this design and the handlebars and pedals are a big part of that. They’re not only comfortable, they’re sturdy and long-lasting, worthy of a premium exercise machine such as this one.
The Bowflex Max M8 handlebars and pedals are exactly what you need to feel comfortable during your workouts but still engage your lower and upper-body. The Max M8 is a low-impact machine that not only provides a stable workout, but also allows you to feel confident because it provides the best features. The Bowflex Max M8 supports you throughout your workouts while still providing a healthy challenge.
Bowflex Max M8 Accessories and Assembly
The Bowflex Max M8 offers not only great features, but also accessories to add to your comfort and help you stay motivated. The Max M8 comes with a premium tablet holder so you can use your tablet or smartphone during your workouts. This way, you can enjoy your entertainment and have an easier time getting through the workouts. The tablet holder can be adjusted easily to any height. The Bowflex Max M8 also comes with a water bottle holder so you can stay hydrated and an accessory holder for your keys or other useful things.
The Bowflex Max M8 assembly process is straightforward. As always, they provide an assembly manual that lays out the process step by step so you can follow along. The assembly process for the Max M8 will take around an hour and a half, and you may need someone to help you. If you can’t find anyone to help you out, you’ll still be able to do it on your own, but it may take a while longer.
The package will include all the Bowflex Max M8 parts and they also provide the tools you need for assembly. If you don’t want to do the assembly yourself, you can always hire a professional to do that for you. However, this will cost you an extra fee. The Bowflex Max M8 requires little maintenance as well, which is great because you don’t have to worry about much.
Bowflex Max M8 Warranty, Price, and Shipping
The Bowflex Max M8 warranty is okay, but it could be better. They offer 3-year coverage for the frame, 3-year coverage for parts, and 90-day coverage for labor. There’s no going around the fact that this warranty is not the best. However, it can be extended for an extra fee and it should, especially if you plan on making greater use of the trainer with your Max Intelligence Platform subscription.
If you happen to have any 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.
The Bowflex Max M8 can be easily found on Amazon and it costs $2,299 with free shipping. Of course, the Bowflex Max M8 is an expensive machine. But considering how much value it has to offer, you should definitely considering an investment. This is a machine that will be with you for the long-term and you won’t outgrow it any time soon. It’s also perfect for multiple users under one roof.
Bowflex Max M8 Pros and Cons
Bowflex Max M8 Final Verdict
The Bowflex Max M8 is an impressive trainer that accommodates many different types of users of all fitness levels. It’s an investment, but it provides all the features you need to reach your fitness goals in one machine. It’s sturdy, long-lasting, challenging, effective, and it won’t take up much space. Plus, the Bowflex Max Intelligence app provides a ton of value and you won’t outgrow the machine any time soon!
| 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 |
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.
