When we are doing our training we want to be confident in the quality of the equipment that we are using. We are interested in finding equipment that is innovative in its design and produces results. Sometimes with this type of innovation, there can be issues. We will explore the Bowflex Max Trainer M5 problems and identify if there is a way for them to be resolved.
About Bowflex MAX Trainer
The Bowflex Trainer is manufactured by Nautilus which is a name well known for the manufacture of gym machines. Three models make up the line of Max Trainers by Bowflex: The entry level M3, mid-range M5, and top-of-the-line M7. The Bowflex has been designed to be an easy to use, intuitive fitness machine. It is a unique design and there really is not an equivalent in the industry. The Max Trainer is a bit of a combination of different gym elements, in particular, a reverse elliptical trainer and a stair stepper. It has been described as having a similar effect to walking up a very steep hill.
In the fitness world, consumers are looking for easier and quicker routines. Most people have busy lives and the less time spent on exercise the more we can spend on other things. There are many types of gym equipment making claims about their performance and what they can do for your routine but they rarely are able to deliver. The giant weights machines do not really fit anywhere. Having multiple machines in your home is just not going to work. So it becomes even more of a value proposition when a manufacturer is able to produce a machine that they say can reduce your time spent on fitness routines.
Maybe you want to know all the details about Bowflex Models: Bowflex Max Trainer M3 vs M6(M5) vs M8(M7) Comparison 2020
What Benefits Does the Bowflex MAX Trainer Claim to Provide?
The Bowflex Max Trainer claims it gives you a full body work out that will burn more calories in less time, improve your endurance, increase your stamina, and burn calories after the workout. The results should be attainable in as little as 14 minutes per session. And that is by following the recommended low impact interval session where you have small bursts of activity followed by longer periods of rest. By using this method you not only burn more calories as part of your training but you keep burning them for up to 48 hours after you have finished. It takes up less room than most trainers and is connected to power using a small AC adapter as its power source. Nautilus also has an app for iOS and Android phones that have additional workouts and workout activity tracking features.
There have been plenty of positive online reviews for the Max Trainer. The ones provided by those who have used the machine for a period of time advise that the machine provides a better workout than an elliptical trainer or a stepper, particularly because of the workout for the upper body. Others liked the compact design and that it takes up less room than a standard treadmill or elliptical.
Given the positive elements, it almost seems too good to be true. Well, there are some Bowflex Max Trainer M5 problems too.
Bowflex Max Trainer M5 Problems
Fan Noise
There are issues of noise. There are fans built into the Max Trainer and as they function they generate a noise. This is not a problem as such but is part of the design of the machine. There will be whirring noise made as the fans rotate. It may seem to be unnerving for some people but if it is not a very loud noise then it is likely that the machine is just functioning normally. If it is a noise that only happens intermittently then there may be another issue.
Every time you use the machine you will hear the sound of the fans going. If you believe that the sound is louder than it should be then you are able to contact the Customer Service Centre for advice. If you are considering purchasing one of the machines then you will be able to view videos online that will provide you with an indication of how loud the fans are.
Squeaking
Another area where there are noise problems is with squeaking on rollers. This occurs even with professionally assembled machines. It does not happen with every machine so it appears to be a matter of being lucky and not getting one that squeaks. The solution is to apply a silicon compound to the rollers and the rail they run on. This will only be a temporary solution and you will need to keep on applying the solution on a regular basis. The silicon products are easy to buy and there are some variations in quality. You would be best to apply a better quality product that should last longer.
Knocking
There have been instances of knocking occurring in the machine. This is likely to be a sign that something has not been installed properly. If you used a professional assembler then you should arrange for them to come and check the device as it is possible that their installation was not done correctly. If you have installed it yourself then you may need to do some disassembly to locate the problem. It is important to identify where the knocking noise is coming from and check that all sections have been tightened correctly. If you believe there is something wrong with the machine you must contact the Customer Service Centre immediately to advise them of this.
Wobbling
This may be similar to the above problem. This usually relates to some issue in the assembly. If the parts have not been tightened correctly then the machine will not function as it has been intended. There are a number of parts that involve movement and they must be suitable balanced for the machine to stay steady. If you had it professionally installed then contact your installer as it is likely to be an installation problem. If this problem returns then you must contact the Customer Service Centre and advise them it is an ongoing problem.
Difficulty in Use
It is not an easy machine to use initially. The M5 is recommended that you take some time to become familiar with the machine, possibly doing a number of very short, low key sessions so that you gain a feel for how it functions. It is not the same as other pieces of equipment and does require a process of adjustment if you have used other equipment. You may also need to read about how to use the display. This is not just a passive display. It is probably best to use it almost like an electronic personal trainer where it is able to help motivate you to meet you identified work out targets. This will also require some getting used to for most people.
Joint Pain
This machine is different from other equipment. The movement is slightly different and people’s bodies will react to it in different ways. There is the chance that because you are exerting your body in a different way that you will be experiencing impact or joint pressure in a different way as well. As a result, your body may react to this and there may be some inflammation or irritation. But in reality, this happens rarely. By taking your time to become accustomed to the equipment and not pushing too hard while your body makes the adjustment you should reduce the chance of this happening. If you do experience joint pain then ease off on your sessions to allow the joint to recover, then start off with less work to allow for the adjustment to occur.
Our Verdict
There are some Bowflex Max Trainer M5 problems but these are generally able to be overcome with appropriate actions. This is a highly innovative and effective piece of training equipment and Nautilus has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining manufacturing quality standards. The majority of reviews indicate that clients are very satisfied with the machine and the results it produces. The Bowflex Max Trainer M5 remains an excellent investment for your training.
