Bowflex Max Total 16 Review [2023] – The Ultimate Max Trainer

Get ready to meet Bowflex’s newest star in this Bowflex Max Total 16 Review.

This compact, yet powerful HIIT trainer is taking the fitness world by storm!

Designed to deliver intense, interval-style workouts without taking up too much floor space, this machine is a total game-changer.

The Max Total 16 is incredibly gentle on your joints, making it perfect for low-impact workouts. Plus, it provides a full-body workout, so you can achieve your fitness goals without any hassle.

But the real star of the show? The 16″ HD touchscreen console that gives you access to all workouts and metrics.

But wait, there’s more! The Max Total 16 also boasts Bluetooth speakers, an armband heart rate monitor, and a free year of Bowflex’s streaming platform, JRNY.

If you’re on the hunt for a compact and effective fitness machine, the Max Total 16 is definitely worth considering.

But before you take the plunge, you’ll want to do your own research – and that’s where I come in.

In this Max Total 16 review, I’ll give you the lowdown on everything the Max Total 16 has to offer, so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right fit for your home gym.

Bowflex Max Total Review

Bowflex has been a household name in the world of fitness for decades – and for good reason. They first made waves with their innovative power rod home gyms, but in recent years, they’ve shifted their focus to cardio machines.

They now boast an impressive lineup of treadmills, bikes, and HIIT trainers. And their latest addition, the Max Total 16 (MT16), is no exception.

But here’s the thing – the MT16 isn’t the only option on the table. If you’re looking for a Bowflex HIIT trainer, you can also choose from some of their older models, like the M9 and M6.

It’s definitely worth comparing the features and prices before you make a decision – for example, the biggest difference between the M9 and MT16 is the size of the console.

All in all, Bowflex may have evolved over the years, but they’re still a trusted and relevant brand in the world of home fitness – and the MT16 is just the latest example of their commitment to innovation and quality.

What is the Bowflex Max Total 16?

The Bowflex Max Total 16 isn’t your run-of-the-mill elliptical. It’s a unique blend of an elliptical and a high stepper that creates a completely new and exciting workout experience.

The MT16 is designed to do more than just give you a cardio workout, it challenges your body and pushes you to your limits. It’s a total body toning machine that engages multiple muscle groups, including glutes, hips, thighs, and calves.

What sets the MT16 apart is its natural movement pattern. It’s a more fluid and intuitive motion than traditional ellipticals, making it an excellent option if you’ve found ellipticals to be awkward in the past.

Not only does it feel better to use, but it’s also a low-impact exercise, which is one of the reasons why ellipticals are so popular. The MT16’s unique design allows for an upper and lower body workout that burns nearly three times as many calories as other exercise equipment.

This machine is perfect for anyone with a busy schedule, as it combines cardio, arm, and leg workouts into one efficient workout.

The MT16’s handles are designed to make you work harder, which provides a more intense cardio workout while toning your entire body. It’s a win-win situation that will help you reach your fitness goals faster without having to swap between machines.

The best part? These workouts are high-intensity, yet low-impact, which means less strain on your muscles and joints. Your feet and hands stay on the machine the whole time, which reduces the impact on your body compared to exercises like running.

You can also use the Bowflex JRNY digital fitness platform to access various classes and workouts, and the integrated touchscreen is compatible with popular entertainment apps like Netflix, making it easier to stay motivated while you exercise.

Overall, the MT16 is an investment worth making, especially if you’re looking for a unique and challenging workout experience that won’t take up too much space in your home gym.

Max Total 16 Review – Resistance

Resistance is a critical factor in any home fitness machine, and the Bowflex Max 16 certainly delivers in this regard.

Although some may debate whether the Max Trainers are ellipticals or not, one thing is for sure – the MT16 provides a challenging full body workout.

The stepping motion is similar to that of a stepper but with the added benefit of moving handlebars that engage your core and upper body.

Both the pedals and handlebars are connected to a magnetic resistance system, which is not only smooth and quiet but also offers 20 levels of resistance.

And if that’s not enough, the fan system kicks in at higher speeds for even more intensity.

With 20 levels of resistance to choose from, users can easily find the perfect level of challenge for their fitness level.

Overall, the Max Total 16 is well-equipped to deliver a butt-kicking workout, and users agree that it’s a fantastic machine for getting in shape.

Bowflex Max Total 16 – Frame

When it comes to workout equipment, one of the biggest challenges can be finding something that fits in your space.

Luckily, the Bowflex Max Trainer MT16 has got you covered with its compact footprint.

At roughly 4 feet by 2.5 feet, this machine won’t take up much more than a yoga mat’s worth of space.

But let’s talk about the elephant in the room – is this machine heavy-duty? As much as I’d love to interpret “heavy-duty” as a metaphor for feeling powerful and unstoppable during your workout, let’s focus on the literal sense of the phrase.

Looking at the assembled weight of the MT16, it clocks in at 155 lb, which is on the lighter side compared to other High Intensity Interval Training machines on the market.

However, most users don’t seem to have any issues with stability or sturdiness during workouts. And with a weight limit of 300 lb, it’s clear this machine can hold its own.

But just like anything in life, there’s a trade-off. A lighter machine may be easier to move around, but it may also rock slightly during more strenuous workouts.

Nonetheless, the MT16 still manages to provide an intense, full-body workout that users swear by.

Bowflex Max Total 16 Review – Features

The Bowflex Max Total 16 boasts a range of features to enhance your workout experience, including a 16″ HD console with a large, HD touchscreen for easy viewing and selection.

While the resistance levels are adjusted using a separate knob, everything else is controlled via the touchscreen.

This impressive console also enables access to Bowflex’s streaming platform, JRNY, which provides access to instructor-led workouts, metric tracking, scenic destinations, music playlists, customized workouts, and entertainment apps.

A free year’s subscription to JRNY is included with purchase, but subsequent months are available for around $20/month (or less if bought annually).

The handlebars on this trainer are also worth noting, as they offer 6 different grip options, allowing you to target a variety of upper body muscles.

Additionally, the Bowflex Max Total 16 features Bluetooth speakers, a heart rate monitor, USB charging port, media shelf, and a water bottle holder to make your workout even more convenient and enjoyable.

Is the Bowflex Max Total 16 easy to assemble?

When it comes to assembling the MT16, you’ll need to decide whether to tackle it yourself or hire a professional for assistance.

If you or a family member are handy with tools, I would recommend saving some money and doing it yourself.

While the main frame comes preassembled, you will need to attach the stabilizers, pedals, handles, console, and several covers.

Fortunately, Bowflex provides a detailed assembly manual with large images that make it easy to see where everything goes.

The necessary tools are included, and if you need some extra guidance, there are helpful assembly videos available on YouTube.

Since the MT16 isn’t overly heavy, one able-bodied adult should be able to handle the assembly, although having a second person for the initial step would be useful.

Overall, assembling the Max Total 16 shouldn’t be too difficult, and most people should be able to have it up and running within 1-2 hours.

Bowflex Max Total Warranty

The Bowflex Max Total 16 comes with a residential warranty that includes 3 years for the frame, 3 years for parts, and only 90 days for labor.

As someone who values warranties, I find this one to be underwhelming.

While the 3-year coverage for parts is decent, the same duration for the frame is relatively short. In comparison, other brands such as ProForm offer 10-year coverage on their HIIT trainers, and Spirit offers a lifetime frame guarantee on theirs.

Moreover, a 90-day labor warranty for a fitness machine in this price range is insufficient.

To be honest, I expect better from Bowflex and I believe that the short warranty is the biggest drawback of the MT16.

On the plus side, the machine is reliable and most users have had no issues with their machines.

Bowflex Max Total 16 Review – Is the Max Total 16 worth it?

Well, there you have it, folks! The Bowflex Max Total 16 is definitely a great piece of exercise equipment.

As we all know, the world of fitness has been revolutionized by streaming workouts, so it’s no surprise that HIIT trainers are getting in on the action too. And the MT16 is no exception!

If you’re feeling a bit bored with traditional gym equipment like bikes and treadmills and want to join the streaming fitness craze, the MT16 could be an excellent investment.

Users are incredibly satisfied with this machine, although it could definitely be a bit sturdier, and the warranty leaves something to be desired.

However, before you pull the trigger on your purchase, there’s one crucial thing to consider: are you planning on using JRNY?

Because let’s face it, all of the MT16’s best features are only accessible through the paid service. And if you’re not planning on using JRNY, do you really need that massive HD touchscreen?

All in all, I’d say the MT16 is a fantastic buy IF you’re planning on investing in a JRNY membership. If you are not, the Bowflex M6 is probably the one for you.

So what are you waiting for?

Get streaming and start breaking a sweat with the Bowflex Max Total 16!