Bowflex Series 5 Treadmills
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This is the next step up from the Series 3, also by Bowflex. You get the advantage of a major company behind it, with a few more features than the Series 3. It will run you roughly $1300. There are better ones out there, but this is a nice mid-range option.
The advantages:
A big frame, good for heavier users because it doesn't shake as much
Much more horsepower than the Series 3 - this one's motor is nearly 50% stronger.
It folds down to reduce storage space when not in use
A large running surface - 20 inches by 60 inches, which keeps you from feeling cramped
Hand grips that measure heart rate
"Quick keys" that will let you instantly change the speed of your workout
The disadvantages:
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The weight is still pretty high, so it can be hard to move around
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One big disadvantage is that you can get the Bowflex Series 7 for just a $100 or so more - and the Series 7 is a better model. When we're talking about this kind of money, it's probably worth the extra money to just go ahead and splurge and get the better performance. It's got more horsepower (3.0 versus 2.5) and the motor will last a lot longer. It's got more options on the display screen, and it can go a little faster (12 mph vs 11 mph for the Series 5). The Series 7 also has a chest strap to let you monitor your heart rate (so you don't have to hold onto those bars the entire time). The consensus seems to be that these benefits are well worth it, and in fact as of right now the Series 5 is not available on Amazon.
Company Website:
Other Reviews:
http://www.exerciseequipmentexpert.com/treadmills/bowflex-5-series.html
http://bowflextreadmills.blogspot.com/2007/10/bowflex-series-5-treadmill-review.html
http://www.epinions.com/review/Bowflex_5_Series_Treadmill_1632/content_325561126532
http://www.trainersecrets.com/treadmill/bowflex/bowflex_series_5_treadmill_review.htm
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