Bowflex PR3000 vs Xtreme 2 SE

Overview: Bowflex PR3000

Bowflex PR3000

This upgraded version of the PR1000 features over 30 different exercises to perform. The power rod resistance can range anywhere from five to 210 pounds. The quick change system helps you transition to different pieces of equipment much quicker than before. You can swap out ankle and hand grips very quickly to continue your workout without much of a break in between.

If you need even more weight, you can upgrade the resistance up to 310 pounds. This is a great feature for bodybuilders who are trying to put on some serious muscle mass. The instructional placard makes learning each new technique a breeze even if you are new to fitness. 

The construction consists of a heavy duty steel frame that is much stronger than the older model. You can really tug on this thing without it bending or warping at all. The roller cushions make it very comfortable on your legs when doing extensions and curls. The freedom arms can be adjusted up to 170 degrees to support a variety of muscle groups.

Overview: ​Xtreme 2 SE

Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE

This versatile home gym facilitates a whopping 70 plus exercises right out of the box. It comes with 210 pounds of power rod resistance but much like the blaze, it can be upgraded to either 310 or 410. It also comes with seven workout regimens that are more or less the same as the blaze. This is fine though as most people only buy one Bowflex machine as they can be used by the whole family.

The adjustable seat is ergonomic and comes with a polyurethane high-density foam cushion. If your butt has become sore when sitting on other benches, try out this one for some extra padding you need. The included ab training strap gives you a variety of options for working the abdomen. This is a muscle group that has been underrepresented in previous models so it is good to see it covered more thoroughly with this unit.

Both the ankle cuffs and hand grips feature five way functionality that gives you a ton of flexibility in how you use them. The solid steel construction is very durable and resistant to scratches. The angled lat bar provides even better lateral exercise positions that are sure to tone up your arms.

Exercise Distribution

While the Bowflex PR3000 does an adequate job at providing different workout movements and exercises into the machine, the Xtreme 2 SE just does it better. If you are a user that enjoys the added exercise variations, the upgraded version might be a better choice.

Below are some of exercises you can perform for each machine:  

Dimensions, Workout Space & Storage

Another aspect that might be important towards your buying decision is size. Ideally, you would want your home gym to be as compact as possible. Both Bowflex Models have similar footprints and are fold-able for storage as well. 

Shown below are the exact dimensions and workout space for each machine.

Weight Capacity & Upgradability

The resistance in all the Bowflex Home Gym Machines we cover are powered by Bowflex's Power Rod system. By default, each machine comes with a maximum weight capacity of 210 lbs. For some users, this is enough weight to effectively train most upper body exercises. For lower body exercises, however, the maximum 210 pounds is simply not enough.

 If the weight capacity is a major concern, we suggest looking more into the PR3000 over the PR1000 as it is upgradeable to 310 lbs.

Note: Traditional home gym equipment are usually powered by a weighted stack, which add loads of weight to the machine as a whole. The Power Rod System design is a great way to create resistance without  all the extra weight,making both machines relatively light weight. But we also have to note that with power rods, their resistance strength will be prone to losing their strength and will likely have to be replaced down the line.

Warranty

Purchasing home gym equipment is usually a large upfront cost purchase and meant to be a long term investment to replace or substitute for a gym membership. Since it is long term, warranties are important to make sure you protect your investment as much as you can. In this regard, both machines are equal.

Here are the numbers to the warranties: