Bowflex home gyms provide you with a full body workout through the use of patented power rods. Many Bowflex systems come standard with 210 pounds of resistance, but for some consumers this is not enough when using exercises such as the bench press and leg extension. If you find that your Bowflex is not providing sufficient resistance for your workout, you can modify it with upgradable power rods.
Step 1
Find the point where the power rods on your Bowflex connect to the frame. The base of the rods will be contained in a plastic casing called the power rod box. This box is held to the frame by a number of screws.
Step 2
Remove any parts from the Bowflex that prevent you from accessing the power rod box screws. On some Bowflex machines, such as the Ultimate 2, access to the screws is underneath the machine. You may need an assistant to tilt the Bowflex up while you access the screws.
Step 3
Insert a Phillips head screwdriver into the first screw that connects the power rod box to the vertical main frame of the Bowflex. Turn the screwdriver counterclockwise and remove the screw. Take out the remaining screws in the same fashion. Set them aside in a secure location.
Step 4
Look into the top side of the power rod box and locate any retainer brackets that are used to secure the power rods to the backing plate. Older Bowflex models do not have these brackets, but if yours does, remove the screws holding it in place and pull it out of the power rod box.
Step 5
Slide the power rod box out of the machine's frame. If it becomes stuck or difficult to remove, tap the plastic casing with a rubber mallet in the direction you are trying to move it until it becomes dislodged.
Step 6
Insert the new power rods into the available slots in the power rod box. Depending on the model you are using, there may be one, two or three pairs of slots available. Check the power rods after you have inserted them to ensure they are facing the same direction as the other power rods.
Step 7
Screw the power rods into place inside the box. The screws to hold the rods in place are inserted through the underside of the box and must be screwed in tightly.
Step 8
Place the power rod back in its original position in the Bowflex and tighten all of the screws that hold it in place. Replace the retainer bracket if your model supports this feature. Test the newly inserted rods after you are finished to ensure they are secure in the power rod box.
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