Bowflex M3 Max Trainer Review -Best Stair Stepper Machine Under 1000?

BowFlex Max Trainer M3

Going to the gym on a regular basis is not a luxury everyone can afford. For some, the nearest gym is too far away. And for others, making the time to go back and forth simply is not possible. Hence the reason for investing in quality home exercise equipment. Because when you search in the right places, you can find great home gym equipment.

With a design that captures the essence of the elliptical machine and a Stairmaster, you can get the best of both worlds through the Bowflex M3 Max Trainer.  More importantly, you can get a full-body workout without leaving your home.

While the M3 from the Bowflex Max Trainer series is an entry-model, it should not be underestimated. And even individuals that take every session very seriously will be impressed with several features. At the same time, beginners are going to find this particular exercise machine very easy to work with. 

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You are welcome to learn a lot more about the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 by reading the following review. It answers most, if not all, the burning questions you might have in order to make a confident purchase.

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Who Is Bowflex?

The Bowflex brand has been around since 1986, and even then it aimed to stand out from the competition. For example, the first machine was based on a combination of polymer rods to create tension, as supposed to traditional pully or weight machines.

So, it is safe to say that Bowflex established itself as an innovative brand from the very beginning. And over the years, their range of machines has expanded dramatically from mainly resistance training.

Now you can shop between apps and exercise equipment for many different purposes.


Why the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 Elliptical Stair Stepper Machine?

Overview

While there are many good reasons to consider the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 (which are discussed a little later), the elements that stand out include: 

- Low impact exercise
- You get a full-body workout
- The machine features a compact design with a small footprint
- If you don't want to spend more than $1000 on an exercise machine, this is a good option

Ultimately, the M3 model speaks to many different needs and challenges. For instance, you do not have to worry about impact damage, given that your feet always stay on the pedals.

Then keep in mind that you can get an intense and effective full-body workout in only 14 minutes, the machine will not take up too much space, and you won't need to break the bank in order to own one. 

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What Are The Bowflex M3 Max Trainer Step Machine Key Features?

Key features of the Bowflex M3 Max Trainer step machine are listed below:

Bowflex M3 Max Trainer
Bowflex M3 Max Trainer 8 Resistance levels

Features and Descriptions

- LCD display to monitor your progress:

Thanks to the dial-style calorie burn indicator and LCD display, you can stay motivated by tracking your progress. 

-  8 resistance levels and 2 workout programs

There are some who might argue that 8 resistance levels and 2 workout programs are not worth getting excited over. But between these 8 levels, even the toughest individuals will feel the burn. And the same can be said regarding the workout programs.


Believe it or not, you are bound to experience a difference once you start using them. And if you get bored with the workout programs, you can put your tablet in the media shelf tablet holder and access your favorite workout app, whatever it may be


- Water bottle holder and media shelf tablet holder

Adding to the key feature just mentioned, the machine has a convenient place to store your water bottle and tablet.

- Full-body workout (upper body more intense than most)

Most will agree that having one exercise machine at home is better than making space for two or three. This is especially true for those with limited space. So, if you can only have one machine, why not look for something that provides a full-body workout?


The Bowflex Max Trainer M3 has built quite a reputation for giving a more intense upper-body workout than the average elliptical. Add to this the effective lower-body workout and you get everything you need in a single machine. 

- Wireless heart rate monitor

You will be happy to know that this particular exercise machine comes with a wireless heart rate monitor, which gets strapped to your chest.


It is worth noting that some data suggest that these are more accurate compared to contact grip monitors. Either way, you can easily stay on top of your heart rate. 

 - Compact design

One of the great elements of the M3 model is the small footprint. For individuals living in apartments or who simply want their exercise equipment to take as little space as possible, you can't go wrong with one from the Bowflex range.


And what about the stylish design? Not only does it look great in any room, but it also provides a stable workout session. 

- Easy to use

There is nothing complicated about using the M3 exercise machine. From setting your targets on the LCD display to burning more calories than you could before on other low-impact machines, you will find the machine very easy to operate because it is very straightforward.


So, if you are looking for a basic machine that gets the job done, this model will likely be the right choice.

 - Cost-effective

Nobody wants to spend a fortune on exercise equipment. And while more expensive models have their perks, all these added features aren't necessary if you are focused on getting fit.


At the end of the day, you want your modest budget to get you an exercise machine with a good reputation, such as the Bowflex Max. Compared to other models in the same class, deals don't get much better than this.

- Operates silently

Yes, it can be very annoying when exercise machines make too much noise.


But this is not the case with the M3 model. Instead, you can trust it operates silently enough to let you enjoy whatever you want to listen to during your workout.


Bowflex Max Trainer M3 Step Machine Benefits

1.  Low-impact exercise that burns more calories:

Taking the pressure off problem areas like knees and ankles is a priority for many individuals. Maybe they suffer from an injury, or they could be senior citizens who want to safely exercise without making their problems worse.

This is what the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 offers, but with a twist. In addition to just providing a safer workout, the elliptic and Stairmaster combination makes the workout more intense. Which means you burn more calories in less time.

2. Get The Most Effective Workout

If time is not something you can afford to waste, take a moment to consider how the Bowflex Max can make your life easier. In less than 15 minutes you can reach significant cardio targets.  The machine boasts a motto that you can get the cardio benefits associated with interval training in 14 minutes.

 And if you have a few more minutes to spare, make your workout even more effective.

3. Avoid Making Problems Or Injuries Worse

This machine is truly ideal for everyone, even people who struggle with injuries. The impact associated with machines like a treadmill will not do your injuries any favors.

Even if your joints are in great condition, the impact can eventually lead to issues down the line. But this is not the case with the M3.

4. Use As Little Space As Possible

Another benefit is the overall compactness of the machine. It cannot be said enough that space can present a real problem, and this problem is very common.

But the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 solves this problem without requiring you to go to the gym.


What Are the Pros and Cons of A Bowflex Max Trainer M3 Step Fitness Machine?

PROS

  • Takes up very little space
  • Provides an intense lower and upper body workout
  • Great for beginners and advanced training levels
  • Easy to use
  • Comes in at a very affordable price

CONS

  • Not the best choice if you want more than 8 resistance levels or more built-in workout programs
  • The warranty is only valid for a year
  • Does not come with an HD display or built-in sound

What's the Difference Between the Bowflex M3 vs M5 vs M7 vs M8?

You can buy Bowflex Max Trainer M3 as well as the M5, M7, and M8 models on Amazon.  Each model comes with more options and a heftier price tag.

Bowflex M3 Max Trainer
Bowflex M5 Max Trainer
Bowflex M8 Max Trainer
Preview
BowFlex Max Trainer M3
Bowflex Max Trainer M5, Black, Large
BowFlex Max Trainer M8
Weight
143 pounds
143 pounds
148 pounds
Dimensions
49 L x 26 W x 64.7 H inches
46.1 L x 25 W x 62.9 H inches
47.9 L x 30.8 W x 65.2 H inches
Resistance Levels
8
16
20
Bluetooth Connectivity
No
Yes
Yes
Apps
-
Max Trainer App
JRNY App / Explore the World
Heart Rate Monitor
Chest strap
Contract grips and chest strap
Bluetooth armband and contract grips
# of Workout Programs
2
9
7
# User Profiles
2
2
4
Bowflex M3 Max Trainer
Preview
BowFlex Max Trainer M3
Weight
143 pounds
Dimensions
49 L x 26 W x 64.7 H inches
Resistance Levels
8
Bluetooth Connectivity
No
Apps
-
Heart Rate Monitor
Chest strap
# of Workout Programs
2
# User Profiles
2
Bowflex M5 Max Trainer
Preview
Bowflex Max Trainer M5, Black, Large
Weight
143 pounds
Dimensions
46.1 L x 25 W x 62.9 H inches
Resistance Levels
16
Bluetooth Connectivity
Yes
Apps
Max Trainer App
Heart Rate Monitor
Contract grips and chest strap
# of Workout Programs
9
# User Profiles
2
Bowflex M8 Max Trainer
Preview
BowFlex Max Trainer M8
Weight
148 pounds
Dimensions
47.9 L x 30.8 W x 65.2 H inches
Resistance Levels
20
Bluetooth Connectivity
Yes
Apps
JRNY App / Explore the World
Heart Rate Monitor
Bluetooth armband and contract grips
# of Workout Programs
7
# User Profiles
4

Who Should Buy Bowflex Max Trainer M3 Stepper Machine?

This product is ideal for people who:

  • are working with a strict budget
  • want a balanced full-body workout without impact 
  •  have limited space in your home or apartment 

What Are Customers Saying About This Step Machine? 

The overall consensus when it comes to this particular exercise machine is positive.

Many reviewers praise it because it is so easy to use. Other reviewers are very happy about the price-point considering the quality they get. 

Then there are reviewers that focus more on praising the efficiency of the machine, as well as the safety.


FAQs

What is the maximum weight limitations?

The maximum weight the Bowflex Max can take is 300 pounds. Breaching the maximum weight limitations will cause instability during the workout.

Do you need to assemble the machine?

Yes, it is necessary to assemble certain sections of the machine.

But the assembling process is fairly quick and the user-manual gives clear instructions on how to do it properly.

How portable is the Bowflex Max?

The Bowflex Max is made portable thanks to the transportation wheels. Not only does the machine take up little space, but you can also easily move it from room to room.

How much noise does it make?

Unless there is a small problem somewhere, you should not hear any annoying sounds or noises coming from the machine. And if it happens that you hear something, it is recommended to investigate the sound.

Will 8 resistance levels be enough?

At face value, 8 resistance levels sound a little "boring". But each level on the Bowflex Max is going to offer a distinct difference, even for people who train on a regular basis.


Final Verdict - Is the Bowflex M3 Worth It? 

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Is the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 the best exercise machine on the market? There are some that will disagree. But quite a few people will say yes when you consider what you pay.

Remember that you get a low-impact workout that won't put added strain on joints and injuries, which is something senior individuals will definitely appreciate.

Then add the fact that you exercise all the muscles in your body without switching between machines. And do not forget about the space you save as well as the ease of use.

When you compare the pros and cons, the former heavily outweighs the latter. Sure, not everyone is going to have the same opinion and that's the beauty of diversity. But the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 certainly deserves consideration when you shop for an all-in-one exercise machine.

If you want more bells and whistles, you can upgrade to other models within the Bowflex Max Trainer Series.  Select M5, No products found., or the premium model M8. 

For additional information on Stepper Machines, visit Best Stair Stepper Machine For Home Use – Step Into Fitness.


About the author

Dee Smith

Hello I am Dee and I am a busy mom who truth be told hated to exercise. That is why I was always looking for shortcuts to fitness and started researching ways to stay healthy and fit at home. Here we provide reviews of the best and most popular products you can use at home to achieve your fitness goals!

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