Free Weights Vs. Bowflex

The Bowflex came on the market in 1986 as an elegant alternative to a garage full of free weights. It replaced traditional plates and stacks with power-rod resistance. Ease of use, combined with an effective marketing campaign, caused sales to skyrocket. The device also sparked a heated debate that still rages over whether Bowflex is actually better than free weights.

Cost

A Bowflex Classic Home Gym costs $649 as of July 2010, according to the manufacturer's website. This best-selling unit is the one that you are likely considering compared to a set of free weights. To have an effective free-weight setup, you will need adjustable dumbbell handles and a bar, as well as plates and a bench. If you buy everything brand new, a 210-lb. free weight set, which is equivalent to the 210 lbs of resistance provided by Bowflex Classic, costs around $300 new and less than that used.

Size

The Bowflex Classic, an all-in-one machine, requires a workout area of 8 feet 4 inches by 6 feet 6 inches. It folds up to 2 feet 6 inches by 2 feet 2 inches when not in use. The bench for most free-weight sets will be about the same size as the Bowflex Classic. Most do not fold up. You will also need space to store the weight plates. Given the extra space these require, the free weight set will likely take up more room than the Bowflex.

Function

Bowflex Classic permits you to execute more than 30 of the most popular exercises, including the bench press, curl, seated lat row and leg press. You have to determine whether this range of exercises will allow you to reach your goals. A casual bodybuilder will have different needs than a high school football player, for example. Free weights offer a wide range of exercise possibilities and will be better suited to performance athletes and power lifters.

Warning

The Bowflex Classic uses power rods--flexible rods fixed to the machine. Resistance is provided when you pull them with a cable, causing them to bend. This prevents you from dropping weights or getting caught under them without a spotter. Free weights, while very effective, come with a few hazards. A failed lift results in the weight coming down in an uncontrolled manner. However, if you use good form and have a capable spotter, free weights provide no more risk than Bowflex.

Considerations

Bowflex Classic's power rods offer up to 210 lbs. of resistance. The body's supporting muscle groups are not heavily taxed since you are working along a two-dimensional plane. Bowflex isolates muscle groups. Free weights require you to balance against the force of gravity, involving supporting muscle groups and permitting compound exercises as opposed to isolation movements. The National Strength and Conditioning Association considers compound lifts superior for overall mass and strength gain.