Bowflex Max Trainer M6 - Fitness Assessment

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8Dec: Received a new Bowflex Max Trainer M6 on 8Dec2018, assembled it that evening, and tried it for the first time the next day, completing the initial configuration and fitness assessment. This video chronicles the assessment, including an error that I made that forced me to restart it when it was 75% complete. I've also included my impressions of the M6 and the accompanying Max Intelligence app for iPad.
Assembly was simple and took about 1.5 hours while watching TV. Two people were needed to carry the main unit down some stairs, and it was helpful to have two when assembling the main unit to the base, although it could have been done solo. I was surprised that it wasn't heavier overall, and it moves quite easily after assembly (on the supplied wheels). Needed tools are included, except a #2 Phillips Head Screwdriver.
See my Bowflex Max Trainer M6 playlist for other videos:
• Bowflex Max Trainer M6
22Dec Update: I've had the M6 for 2 weeks and am quite happy with my purchase. There are some annoyances, but they're mostly minor. Main issues that I'm dealing with:
- The Max 14 Minute workout has no warm up period, so I do a couple minutes of a Manual workout (at the same resistance that I'm using for Max 14) beforehand, and then start the Max 14.
- I’m getting a gentle knocking sound when each peddle reaches its lowest position. I asked Bowflex Customer Support how to correct it, and they suggested "wave" washers, which are add-ons for the earlier versions (M3, M5, M7) but were included with the M6. I need to try to isolate the source of the noise and call back. I suspect that I may just have the roller arms screwed down too tightly to the main body, preventing the "wave" washers from being effective.
- I'm getting a slight side-to-side rocking of the peddles. More on that below.
Suggestions that I posted to Bowflex's Facebook page...
M6 SUGGESTIONS
- Because the installation holes are larger than the supplied bolts, the peddles can “rock” slightly side-to-side (even when the M6 is motionless). It would be handy if you provided a shim or similar to insert under the peddle (inside the housing tube) to keep it from rocking.
- User Manual page 23 says that the USB port may not provide enough power to charge a device while it is on. That seems like a significant oversight, given the M6's focus on using a smart device. It shouldn't be hard to output the full 5W needed for the USB port to charge a device.
MAX INTELLIGENCE APP SUGGESTIONS
- The Max 14 program starts immediately with a sprint and no warmup, so the user is required to warm up in manual mode. It would be better if Max 14 opened with a rest/warmup period, or offered the option for the user to enable it.
- Some programs on the M6 are not available in the app (calorie burn, stairs, etc.). I'm told that they may be added. Please do that. :)
- Allow users to manually set resistance values for sprint/rest periods, then automatically set those resistance levels. Right now, users must manually adjust up/down at each sprint/rest change, if they're not using the same resistance level for both phases.
- Allow individual workouts to be deleted. When a friend comes over and wants to try the M6 for a few minutes, that's recorded as a manual workout, but it should be possible to delete it from the Journal and exclude the results from any Max computations for the future.
- While watching a video workout, the regular workout display (dial, RPMs, etc.) should still be displayed as an overlay or in the corner.
OTHER SUGGESTIONS
- I purchased the M6 from bowflex.com and checked out as a guest. Later, I created an account on bowflex.com, but there is no way to "attach" my M6 purchase to my bowflex.com account. It would be very nice if that were possible.
If you have an M5 and are wanting some of the M6 features, I have read in the FB Group / bowflexmaxtrainer that there's an upgrade for the M5 (called the M5u) that gives it most of the features of the M6 for $249. I'm not sure if it's shown on the Bowflex website, but you can contact their customer support to order it. Check out this FB Post from a guy that did the upgrade / 2221725667860866 .

[@petes9845]

My wife and I just ordered the M6 a couple days ago and we're both looking forward to getting started with it. Thanks for doing this video and your helpful suggestions.

[@AquaSurf00]

Do you like it? I'm thinking aboit ordering a M6 soon since it's their smallest version. My house is small.

[@bdwait530]

Your review had exactly the information I was looking for. Thanks

[@timshufflin9525]

My M6 will be here in three days. It's about time that there's a video showing how Max Intelligence works with the machine. Nice real world evaluation and I appreciate it.

[@chrisrimple]

Thanks, Tim. Glad that you found it helpful. When I was first looking at the Bowflex Max Trainer in November 2018, I was able to see the M3, M5, and M7 in person at local stores, but Bowflex had just updated their website to list the M6 and M8, and no stores had them in stock. There were a few "comparison" videos showing photos of the M6 and M8, but none with someone actually using the devices. So after receiving mine, I figured I'd document my early experiences for anyone else that was considering the M6.

[@timshufflin9525]

Chris Rimple my exact scenario. I knew I liked the 5 but wanted to understand the 6.

[@chrisrimple]

@@timshufflin9525 Some things I'm really liking about the M6, compared to the M5: - Screen. I never liked the "split screen" of the M5, but the M6 solved that by incorporating the single screen of the M7. - Water Bottle. The water bottle holder on the M5 was in a difficult-to-reach location, while the M6 has it out front. - Max Intelligence App. I never used the M5/M7 app, but have seen screenshots, etc. The M6/M8 app seems to have much better design, better interactivity, better features, etc. I'm not a paid subscriber and I'm still finding the app to be excellent. I'll do a video review of it soon. - Price. I could find the M5 used for $800-$1100 locally, and got the M6 on sale for $1500. Didn't seem like a lot more to pay for the improvements, warrantee, etc.

[@timshufflin9525]

Chris Rimple economically I came to the same conclusion as you did. Used, these things seem to be at a pretty high ask. Can’t wait to see your MT’r video.

[@Ratboy2004]

Thanks. Good review. Mine is on the way. The reviews are stunning.

[@Charley711away711]

I bought the first one the M3 wish I had waited to get the electronic version - Still a great workout! That doesn't change!

[@lov2playtn]

Excellent video! Thanks for sharing!!

[@theshadowboxer]

Very helpful! Thank you!

[@americansoldier7776]

Ive had my M5 for 2 years and just bought and installed the upgrade kit. Love it!!! My favorite exercise machine ever! Better than my wife’s Peloton! 😂

[@Allycat-rw1st]

Hey Lou, I just upgraded mine last night but I am confused. I can no longer customize my max program. Does the new app create workouts for you and if so, do you like them? Looking for feedback on how to get the best workout. I have been using my M5 faithfully for 3 years - 6 days a week.

[@9833000]

Question for you, I bought a NordicTrack eliptical 3 years ago and it's broken down about 5 times because of use.... do you recommend this for heavy daily use?

[@chrisrimple]

You've probably realized this already, but the M6 app has a "free" mode and a "subscription" mode. Free mode is fine for me, but some people may want the additional features available with a subscription.

[@chrisrimple]

I've seen posts from others that have been using their Max Trainers for 3+ years with daily use, and no breakdown issues.

[@9833000]

@@chrisrimple Awesome thank you!!

[@stevewages]

I'm going to be doing my M6 fitness assessment in a few days so it was good to see how it went for you.

[@chrisrimple]

I've been meaning to re-run my fitness assessment for a while, but haven't gotten to it. Probably in the next week, since I think I need to be doing the Max 14 program at a higher resistance level.

[@pupfriend]

Chris - great video. I am curious after all this time what you think of the noise of the unit. I am going back and forth between a Bowflex trainer and a Proform, which uses magnets to apply resistance instead of fans, making it nearly silent. Does the noise generated by the fans annoy you at all? Based on the video, it didn't seem like you were raising your voice too much, which tells me that although it makes noise, it wasn't horrible. Thoughts?

[@chrisrimple]

Some Max Trainers, including mine, have a slight "knocking" sound, but there are videos online to show you how to correct it. Apart from that, it's fan-based resistance, so the sound is a constant "hiss" of wind during sprints. But I don't think it's louder than any elliptical that I've used in a gym. And I certainly wasn't yelling to be heard in the video - just speaking at an "outdoor speaking level".

[@pupfriend]

@@chrisrimple Thanks very much for the response. I actually pulled the trigger on an M8 this morning. I have too many persistent aches and pains to pound the pavement everyday or do the Insanity workouts as much as I'd like. Hoping for the best.

[@antoinettejones3600]

The Angriest Puppy, I am also pondering the bowflex vs proform. Proform is not currently offering installation services so I’m leaning towards Bowflex. I live in an apartment and I’m concerned about the noise. How did the bowflex work for you? Is it really loud? Thanks for your help 😊

[@pupfriend]

@@antoinettejones3600 It is not "really" loud, but it does make noise. Mine has not developed the knocking sound yet. It is hard to describe, but I would say that it is probably a bit louder than a tabletop fan on high, but not nearly as loud as a fan at a construction site. It is also a matter of how fast you go... It is using fans to generate the resistance, so the faster you go, the louder it gets. Personally, I don't think it is the type of noise that travels through concrete apartment floors. During the day, I would bet the noise is lost with all other daytime noises. If you plan to use it early morning or late night, it seems louder on account of the lack of other ambient noise. The Proform will def be quieter and is the safer choice if noise is your chief concern. Hope this helps.

[@antoinettejones3600]

The Angriest Puppy, Thanks so much this is a tremendous help😊. It doesn’t sound like the noise is too bad. I’m going with the Bowflex. Thank you!

[@prometheusj5586]

Sorry but I couldn't stop laughing seeing you trying to recover the assessment :)

[@chrisrimple]

Glad that you appreciated that element. :)

[@metallpt147]

I have a question. Are the pedals supposed to be a bit wobbly? Like go side to side slightly? The pedal is securely on but if I hold either side of a pedal and move my hand up and down the pedal kind of wobbles a bit. Normal?

[@chrisrimple]

When I contacted Bowflex support, they said that is normal, but I find it annoying. I haven't done anything to correct it yet, but I'm considering slightly-larger-diameter bolts and other solutions. If I fix it, I'll post a video about the problem and my solution.

[@metallpt147]

Chris Rimple awesome thanks! Also, were you able to connect the max trainer app to the max trainer? I keep trying and the app keeps telling me there’s no max trainer. I also unplugged and replugged it and tried again and nothing. Any help on that?

[@chrisrimple]

@@metallpt147 There are two Bowflex apps in the app store: Max Trainer and Max Intelligence. Max Trainer is for the M5 and M7, while Max Intelligence is for the M6 and M8. It sounds like you've installed the wrong app. :)

[@metallpt147]

Chris Rimple yea I actually just figure that out haha..thanks though!

[@nidole6573]

Hi Chris...firstly, thanks for sharing your video...really enjoyed your assessment as it was very informative...how is your Max Trainer M6 holding up? Any issues to date since you've bought it? Appreciate anything you (or anyone else) can share...I am very close to purchasing it.

[@chrisrimple]

No issues, although mine was a little noisy after initial assembly, which I solved by following one of the videos online to get rid of the "clunk" happening on each rotation.

[@daredevil8999]

How is your machine doing after so many years? how often do you exercise?

[@shellbellz1042]

Imagine my surprise to start this video and realize this was you? Great video! We have the M5 and just found out we can upgrade it. Did you ever decide to get the paid app?

[@chrisrimple]

No, I haven't found that I needed it. The services available in the free app are sufficient for my needs.

[@melissasewell9691]

I’m considering purchasing an M6. How does your back feel during a workout?

[@chrisrimple]

I haven't had any issues with my back, but I make a point of staying upright, rather than leaning into the handles. I often exercise without the handles, focusing primarily on my lower body workout.

[@yayizaa395]

Does it bother/hurt you knee? I do have knee pain so I was wondering if you do have any recommendations about it? Thank you!

[@chrisrimple]

I usually have knee pain when using a stair stepper, and also when playing sports that involve running. But I don't get pain when on an elliptical machine, and I don't have any knee pain when using the Max Trainer.

[@yayizaa395]

@@chrisrimple thank you! For you answer!!!

[@edwardzubia2757]

One of the other video reviews also made the same feature comment. They had to stop their workout and start over from the beginning. I purchased the M6 to avoid this from happening. Mine is coming to me next week. Feeling a bit uneasy about my purchase.

[@iconikreviews5377]

Why feeling uneasy about the purchase?

[@pobster88j94]

How long do they hold up? I saw some reviews saying they need a lot of maintenance but I still really want one.

[@davidbruce5377]

The handles appear to put you in an awkward posture. ( Leaning forward) Did you feel that to be a problem for you?

[@chrisrimple]

No. I learned to lean forward a slight amount, allowing me to keep my back straight while still reaching the handles. I also use the M6 without the handles a lot, for a cardio + lower body workout, keeping my hands at my sides with elbows bent (like a running position). If the upper handle position is too far a reach for someone, the lower handle position can also be used.

[@davidbruce5377]

@@chrisrimple Thank you. My M6 is arriving this week. Ill be using your video to dial in a workout. In Canada, the app is 30 bucks a month. I may just try the pre set workouts.

[@chrisrimple]

@@davidbruce5377 I've never paid for the subscription, I just use the basic features of the app and that's plenty. You may find the same.

[@davidbruce5377]

@@chrisrimple Starting use today Chris. Took a while to get the pairing. 4 mins and im done for the day. Thanks for the assistance

[@jeanneamour400]

Not too sure the hunched over position is good for the back or shoulders. You seem to get more hunched over as the video moves along. Any trouble with your back and/or shoulders after repeated use?

[@drefunke]

Seems the handles are too low, might be the problem. until i can test one out, the handles height are the debate.

[@Lisa-kz7vw]

I really like this machine so pricey though I test rode the M8 model at a sporting goods store they were sold out though. Machine is not as loud as it seems in my opinion and a smooth ride, compact will not take up alot of space all important factors for me seems like it will last for years also but that price I probably will get the M3 which is $999 on Amazon versus $2230 for the M8.

[@ArtNScience]

Do you like the machine or wish you bought something else? I've been trying to decide on something for a year.

[@chrisrimple]

I'm very happy with the M6 and use it every day unless I'm traveling. I haven't bothered with the Max Intelligence monthly subscription, finding that the default programs + free videos are sufficient to keep me happy and engaged.

[@joethelocator1161]

Does the noise level bother you? Seems very loud to me.

[@chrisrimple]

No, not at all. My breathing is louder. :) The resistance fan make some noise, but I have no trouble listening to music or watching TV while using the Max.

[@atan5207]

I am not from USA. May I ask how much is the Max M6?? Please advise.

[@chrisrimple]

Sorry, I don't know the price outside the USA. You should be able to find that information on the Bowflex website.

[@lov2playtn]

Do you know of any discounts for the M6? Thanks!

[@gabbyvasquez8964]

right now 800 off! cyber monday

[@bradleyweeks8011]

Did you ever figure out what was wrong with the heart rate monitor? I just ordered one. I need to drop 30lbs

[@chrisrimple]

I've found that ensuring my hands are dry helped with heart rate monitor sensitivity, but it still doesn't seem particularly accurate

[@THEGRIDIRONBLITZ]

Wish our M5 was your M6!(2017 problems)

[@chrisrimple]

I was just reading in the FB Group facebook.com/groups/bowflexmaxtrainer/ that there's an upgrade for the M5 (called the M5u) that gives it all the features of the M6 for $249. I'm not sure if it's shown on the Bowflex website, but you can contact their customer support to order it. Check out this FB Post from a guy that did the upgrade facebook.com/groups/bowflexmaxtrainer/permalink/2221725667860866.

[@stevewages]

Bowflex does have an upgrade kit. Info is here: www.bowflex.com/max-trainer/m5-m7-upgrade-kit/maxupgradekit.html. Looks like you have to call to order, but they have free shipping and a free year's subscription (which I think is around $150 normally).

[@lukegeorgetown5545]

How different is the result if I don't pay for the 20$ Bowflex JRNY Membership? Thanks for all your great information!

[@chrisrimple]

I've never paid for the subscription and no shortage of usage from the app. In addition to basic features, there are a number of video workouts that are included free.

[@lukegeorgetown5545]

@@chrisrimple Thank you for your quick answer. Seems that I can afford the M6 and take all the advantage of this advance machine.

[@tnnsboy18]

That sounds so loud!

[@drgnrydr11496]

Which is better for weight loss treadmill or elliptical?

[@chrisrimple]

Most fitness coaches would probably say that running is one of the best forms of exercise, because it maximizes calorie burn for effort expended. But it can also be hard on your knees, while an elliptical is low-impact. The Bowflex Max combines the greater effort required of a stairstepper with the low-impact of an elliptical, which is why I've found it to be an excellent device. And you can probably lose weight on any device, if you're willing to push yourself enough.

[@loronwatson8294]

Is your body hurting ?

[@killerno100]

dumb question will it help to reduce the body fat / i.e Belly fat

[@chrisrimple]

I wouldn't say that it's specifically designed for reducing belly fat, but there are example videos from Bowflex in which they show the user with their abs tightened throughout the workout - keeping your abs tight for 7/14/21 minutes is likely to help. Some people may have difficulty sprinting at full speed while keeping their abs tight, so may want to sprint at a slower pace if belly fat is a focus.

[@kntwing23]

his legs isn't hairy? i see no sweat....i have an elliptical..i did mostly 30 mins tops some times 35 depends how tired i am.. i'm sweaty like hell...this m6 doesn't sweat?

[@chrisrimple]

Different individuals will sweat in different amounts. This video is from December 2018, when I first purchased the M6. Since that time, as my ability has improved, I've increased the resistance and the RPM. End result is that I sweat quite a bit now, although mostly from my head and torso, not really from my legs.

[@ElianEychenne-zf6ez]

What had you choose the M6 over the M8?

[@chrisrimple]

Features v. price. The M6 had the features I was seeking and was less expensive than the M8.

[@donnahall9874]

I haven't started as yet but hopefully tomorrow can't wait but I won't install the app cost to much money for myself

[@chrisrimple]

The app is free to install and use, but there is a paid subscription you can add if you want additional features.

[@elian8466]

Can you ride the M6 without using the arms?

[@therealimposters]

Yes. I often use it with my arms hanging at my sides.

[@bobcardone7437]

Sounds like a Cement mixer.

[@chrisrimple]

Some owners have reported that the M3/M5/M6/etc. make a "knocking noise" during operation. Mine did. But there are instructions and videos online to adjust it to be much quieter.

[@loronwatson8471]

Does your body hurt ?

[@chrisrimple]

It's a workout, but I wouldn't say that my body "hurts" afterward.

[@polonel2006]

"I’m getting a gentle knocking sound when each peddle reaches its lowest position." I as well just purchased and used my M6 for the first time and I'm getting this gentle thump that you can feel with your foot when it reaches the bottom. At first, I thought the whole machine was rocking, but this was not the case. Wondering if you ever found a solution to the issue.

[@chrisrimple]

I haven't had time to focus on solving it yet, although hope to during March. My brother bought an M6 a month after me, and doesn't have the knocking issue. There are KZbin videos about the knocking and how to fix it - the M5 and other older models had a similar problem - so you might look for those until I can get something posted.

[@tony23807]

what if more than 2 people want to use it since theres only 2 profiles? can you just share a profile?

[@chrisrimple]

In concept, yes. But keep in mind that how it person is performing will affect the recommended intensity level, so if the two people are if significantly different fitness levels, one may be asked to work out too hard, while the other will be asked to work out too easily.

[@amberjones2586]

Wait! Mine doesnt talk. I have the m6

[@chrisrimple]

Talking is a function of the Bowflex JRNY application, not the M6 itself. So you have to be using the app to hear any voices.

[@SmokeyStoner]

I don't like the posture position while holding the top bars, looks way to hunched over.

[@gamergamer7985]

its loud as hell!! I live in an apartment building & sometimes I like to work out or do quiet yoga very late @ night... In no way shape or form can I use this loud ass machine in the middle of the night :-(

[@salty_pepper]

what cardio device isnt?

[@ItsMeAdamC]

If it's a hindrance, you can always get some sound proof panels to add to your walls/ceiling ? Same kind you would use in a recording studio. Can get some fairly inexpensive versions on amazon, easy to hang.

[@bobcardone7437]

@@salty_pepper My Elliptical is quiet.

[@chrisrimple]

Some owners have reported that the M3/M5/M6/etc. make a "knocking noise" during operation. Mine did. But there are instructions and videos online to adjust it to be much quieter.

[@mariopellegrino7661]

@@bobcardone7437 your elliptical is quiet? is it the bowflex or something else?

[@roustabout4fun]

Seems to me to be another elliptical machine

[@chrisrimple]

The Max Trainer combines the movement of an elliptical with the movement of a stairstepper. The end result is a more difficult workout than an elliptical, with a motion that feels a bit more like a cycling "circle" (or oval) than an elliptical "slide", but without the impact of a true stairstepper.

[@gilbertjaramillo6648]

It’s more difficult