Comments for Treadmills and Exercise Equipment

Comment on Bowflex Revolution Home Gym by Mark H "mbeast"

Mark H "mbeast" — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 12:10:23 +0000

15 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

Great home gym, July 27, 2008

Mark H "mbeast" (Virginia Beach, VA) -

This review is from: Bowflex Revolution Home Gym (Sports)

Gives a great workout, and relatively compact compared to any other home gym (talking about the full Revolution, not the condensed XP). It takes a little getting used to the positions (just a couple sets) but is a little more natural if you are a prior gym rat that has worked with cables before. The only downside (which is kind of a big one) is that I'm 5'11 and I don't really get a good full range of motion on some exercises, such as the leg press, I'm only getting good tension through about half of the repitition. The spiraflex plates seem to work pretty well though, and the equipment is rather sturdy. (Heavy too).

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Comment on OneTouch Massage Deluxe Series Portable Massage Table – Plum 4F Reviews by Penny M. Pendarvis "dpenpen"

Penny M. Pendarvis "dpenpen" — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:34:16 +0000

4 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

great message bed, March 12, 2008

Penny M. Pendarvis "dpenpen" (louisiana) -

This review is from: OneTouch Massage Deluxe Series Portable Massage Table - Plum 4F (Misc.)

this message table is wonderful.i love it.it is really huge.i love the armrest at the head and sides i have recommended it to all of my classmates.we are in message therapy school.i will use it with pride on my clients.thanks for the fast shipping.i meant to give 5 stars but i guess my computer messed up i dont know what happened but this is a great bed and the shipping was fast and the price was good.thank you.

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Comment on Bowflex Revolution Home Gym by T. Simons

T. Simons — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:26:09 +0000

37 of 40 people found the following review helpful:

A decent machine, but not a free ticket, July 30, 2009

T. Simons (Columbia, SC United States) -

This review is from: Bowflex Revolution Home Gym (Sports)

This review may sound a little negative, but . .well, I'll explain. I do use this machine pretty regularly and enjoy working out on it. But it ain't cheap, and it ain't perfect, either, especially if you're a complete novice to weightlifting.

Over the years, I've worked out in gyms and I've worked out at home both with older Bowflex power-rod models and with this one. I'm about the furthest thing there is from a walking mile of muscle, but I try to at least maintain a basic fitness level. Overall, I prefer lifting in a gym with a friend as a spotter, for a lot of reasons -- working out with a friend helps educate you about proper lifting technique, the buddy system works as motivator, and many of the most efficient excercises for muscle gain -- deadlifts, military press, squats -- require either free weights or a dedicated Smith machine, and can't be performed on this machine.

But if you don't have any friends to lift with you and there aren't any gyms nearby, or if (like me) you simply don't have the time to make it to the gym regularly, you can get a decent workout with a bowflex system. I've had this machine for about three years now, and I use it fairly consistently (usually in six month on/ six month off cycles, as I watch my belly fat expand and retract). If you do choose to get a home gym system, this one is a good choice. It does let you fit a lot of exercises into a small space, and it's great for working out at home safely without a spotter -- essentially, it functions as a combination cable machine and adjustable-weight dumbbell set, with some qualifications (as noted below). You can do a lot of basic exercises on it -- incline and decline bench; leg presses, extensions, and curls; preacher curl, resisted crunches; chest and shoulder flies; it doubles effectively as a weighted rowing machine. Overall, you can hit pretty much any individual muscle group in the body with this thing.

As to durability and construction, this machine has also stood up reasonably well over time, despite several moves and long periods of daily use; the "power rods" on my old bowflex lost a fair bit of their elasticity over time, but the the resistance plates on this machine are (as far as I can tell) just as tough now as they were when I purchased the thing. You will probably need at least two people to put the thing together (unless you're fit enough already to make it redundant). You'll have to do some partial disassembly when moving it through a doorway, too -- the horizontal rod on which the plates fit sticks out too much to fit through a standard doorway -- but all that takes is ten minutes or so with the included allen wrenches (make sure to keep all the tools it ships with in a bag somewhere, so you can disassemble it later if you need to move). It does creak a little on some exercises, but overall the construction has held up pretty well (so far). [Edit: shortly after I wrote this review, i.e., after using the machine on and off for about three years, one of the plastic parts snapped while I was changing out plates. I contacted the company and was shipped a replacement part within the week, no charge or question].

The main problem with this machine is that it's hard to hit groups of muscles at once, and that's the best way to build overall strength. You can't do squats or deadlifts on it or a number of other compound exercises -- they've got an isolation excercise for every muscle, but it's harder to do whole-body workouts on them. (You can *try* to mimic deadlift and press on it, but you end up straining at odd angles that beg for injury). I've had to buy a chin-up bar to do pullups, and I generally have to do dips between my kitchen counters. This is a problem for two reasons: isolation exercises are less time-efficient -- working out each body part separately takes a lot longer than working them together in compound exercises like deadlifts and presses -- and there's a second problem that shows up after you've been using this for a few months. If you don't plan your workout carefully, an unbalanced set of isolation exercises can overdevelop your strength in one area and underdevelop another, creating a potential risk of injury. To explain, I've strained my arms once or twice on this machine because I'd let my bench press get so far out in front of my chest fly that it became difficult to pull the strap handles in to position for the press. So you have to pay attention and plan your excercises carefully, for even muscular development. That's something you have to do with any workout plan, of course, and in some ways is a problem general to any machine-based exercise program, but you'll want to pay especial attention to it with the Bowflex machines.

The chief advantage of this "revolution' model over the more standard "power rod" bowflex model is that the "power rod" basic model has an additional flaw that's kinda hard to explain -- the... Read more

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Comment on Rubbermaid 5A43 38-by-36-by-18-Inch Sports Gear Storage Station Reviews by Mom of boys

Mom of boys — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:01:56 +0000

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

Great storage system, February 13, 2009

Mom of boys (Utah) -

We got this storage system for all of our boys' balls and sports stuff. The bag on the bottom is big enough to hold our basketball, 5 soccer balls, 2 kick balls, and baseballs. We still have enough room for plenty more. The bag does tend to come out a little, but we put it against the garage wall and we haven't had a problem with it.

The area to hold the bats and stuff is great. We have our bats, scooters, helmets, arm/knee pads hanging from the hooks. On top we put anything else (soccer cones, baseball gloves, etc). For the price, this is a great organization system.

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Comment on OneTouch Massage Deluxe Series Portable Massage Table – Plum 4F Reviews by Samuel J. Robinson "seniorsheriff"

Samuel J. Robinson "seniorsheriff" — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:50:49 +0000

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

Nice Massage table, February 26, 2009

Samuel J. Robinson "seniorsheriff" (San Diego) -

This review is from: OneTouch Massage Deluxe Series Portable Massage Table - Plum 4F (Misc.)

It is a good table, sturdy and well constructed for the most part. There were only two things I would change: 1 the face ring is not exceptionally comfortable. 2 the face ring cutout in the actual table is held in place by a plastic plate with staples in it, unfortunately the first time I used the table the staples came loose. However the plug stays in place with out the plastic ring.
I would buy it again.

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Comment on ChargerCity 360° Swivel Adjustment Apple iPad iPad 2 Kindle Fire Nook Color Universal Tablet Handle Bar Mic Microphone Stand Exercise Machine Shopping Cart Wheelchair Golf Push Cart Strap Lock Mount (Fits aany shape handle bar from .75″ to 1.5″) by K. Schindler

K. Schindler — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:47:15 +0000

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

Exactly what I wanted, February 4, 2012

K. Schindler -

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: ChargerCity 360° Swivel Adjustment Apple iPad iPad 2 Kindle Fire Nook Color Universal Tablet Handle Bar Mic Microphone Stand Exercise Machine Shopping Cart Wheelchair Golf Push Cart Strap Lock Mount (Fits aany shape handle bar from .75" to 1.5") (Electronics)

I purchased this to hold my iPad while I ride my spinning bike and it does exactly that. I can use this with my iPad in a vertical or horizontal position and love being able to plug my headphones in and listen to music or a spinning workout album while I read or do a little Internet browsing. Mostly I read by enlarging the font on one of my ereader apps and away I go. There is a little bit of movement with the movement of my spinning bike but the iPad remains secure in the clamp and the swivel head doesn't shift with the motion.

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Comment on Bowflex Revolution Home Gym by Porfie Medina "Porfie Jr. Medina"

Porfie Medina "Porfie Jr. Medina" — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:31:28 +0000

81 of 87 people found the following review helpful:

The Bowflex Revolution is truly a great Home Gym with plenty of versatility, November 18, 2007

Porfie Medina "Porfie Jr. Medina" (Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA) -

This review is from: Bowflex Revolution Home Gym (Sports)

I have never been in to the Bowflex infomercials, but I was fascinated by the new technology behind this Bowflex model. I researched this Bowflex Revolution on the internet and found mostly positive reviews. This item was one of Mens Health Top 100 Products of 2005, and these guys are the experts when it comes to Mens fitness. Popular Mechanics says "We don't normally endorse anything sold via infomercials, but testing is believing and the Bowflex Revolution is the first Bowflex we've tried that lives up to its own hype." Even football legend Brett Favre believes in this product enough to endorse it. I do not work for Bowflex, but I do believe in this product enough after using it and seeing results. I can truly say is this is an amazing machine. After one heck of a nightmare with other machines the Bowflex Revolution has finally met my fitness goals. I have had the Revolution since August 2006 and am very familiar with it and I love it. I loved my bench and free weights, but you usually need a spotter to max out otherwise you risk hurting yourself. After my free weights I went to the Crossbow and the Crossbow Platinum from weider. I had my original crossbow about 1 year and I hated the inconsistent feel of the bows (just like the regular Bowflex models) compared to free weights. I eventually upgraded to the Crossbow Platinum with the built in personal trainer. That machine was ok and worked for about 2 years before the electronics console completely stopped working and my machine would not calibrate properly. After having 2 cheap machines I ended up going with the Bowflex Revolution. I am about 5'10" and this machine works great. It is a little strange at first, but after a week or so you get the hang of it. The workouts are harder because you truly are getting an even constant resistance both positive and negative making exercises that may have been easier on other machines or free weights feel much harder on the revolution. This machine makes you use all those extra muscles that you would not ordinarily use. The machine has over 100 exercises with 400 variations, along with a CD-ROM personal trainer and DVD that shows you how to properly use this machine and perform each exercise. This is an expensive machine, but after my experience with two cheap machines the Bowflex Revolution is well worth it. The 10 year warranty and the results I have seen are just an added bonus. For people who are independent and do not always have time to go to a gym this is well worth the monthly payment which is comparable to a GYM membership in itself. The customer service from Bowflex is top notch compared to the rude customer service I got from Icon regarding the Weider Crossbows. I truly believe you get what you pay for and I can truly say this is one great well built machine and one of the best investments I have made toward my health. The only negative thing I can say about this machine is the high price tag, but other than that this is a great machine that is built to last.

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Comment on Diamondback Fitness 500Er Rear Drive Elliptical Trainer by love_amazon

love_amazon — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:23:47 +0000

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

3 attempts and 3 returns, May 8, 2011

love_amazon -

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: Diamondback Fitness 500Er Rear Drive Elliptical Trainer (Sports)

I did a research over dozen of distinct models and brands, and due to the solid design and the discounted price, I decided to buy Diamondback 500ER. It was a quite adventure since there was 0 feedback at the time not only from Amazon but also from other sites and also an email sent to Diamonback had never yield a reply.
The first unit came from Amazon and the packaging was pretty beaten up. It took about 2.5hr by myself for the assembly. The unit looked awesome although it did not have powered(nor manual) inclination. Right on the first try out, a scratching noise came from inside the flywheel. There was nothing I could do since the noise came from the inside which was a factory preassembled. Called Amazon and asked for a replacement.
The second unit came,the box was much better. It took about 1.5hr for assembly. Zero noise and everything seemed perfect until I realized there was something wrong with the display.
The display turned off every 9 second and half of features on it(RPM, Distance, Watts, etc) did not work. I thought that it was bad display panel, so emailed Diamondback for a replacement panel but never received a reply as the same thing happened on the first try. After 2-3 days, called and within 2-3 attempts was able to talked the technician. He said it was not the display but the problem is with sensor in flywheel which does not recognized someone working on the machine. I was told a service technician is available in my area and would get a call back to setup the visit date. Waited 4 days and no call. I really got fed up with their service and called Amazon for the 2nd replacement. Received 3rd unit, and the box was really BADLY beaten up. I was afraid right from the beginning that something would might not work. Finished full assembly in an hr and there was again. Scrapping and Scratching noise from the flywheel. Called Amazon and they said they would take the unit out from their site. I need an ellipcatil and do not know which one to go for.

After 3 bad experiences, I still give 2 stars b/c I love the design and the quality of the materials used(and the price).

Here are my honest feedbacks about the unit and Diamondback:

Pro:
1) Design (really great design, looks compact, solid and stylish)
2) Price (current price is a steal)
3) Product Quality (top quality materials)
4) Simple Assembly (even the first assembly was not bad but after 3 times, I can do it less than 45 min)

Cons:
1) Packing (except for the sensor issue, I still think the noise from flywheel is due to shipping and handling of the unit and not from manufacturer)
2) Customer Service (sent 2 emails and still never received a reply. Still never received a call back with service date. There actually is only 1 guy working in tech support and he does not provide you much help)

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Comment on OneTouch Massage Deluxe Series Portable Massage Table – Plum 4F Reviews by PM

PM — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:12:34 +0000

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

Excellent portable massage table, July 26, 2008

PM (Melbourne, FL USA) -

This review is from: OneTouch Massage Deluxe Series Portable Massage Table - Plum 4F (Misc.)

After searching various massage table websites for a portable massage table to reside in my home (where I have my massage sessions), this table was deemed to be an incredible value for the money (by my licensed masseuse). Her portable table cost 3 times as much as this one, and is not as nice. The table is VERY sturdy, easy to setup, and has great inside storage. The free face cradle and full tilt back rest is an added bonus (could not find a comparable table at other websites with these same "extras" for the price offered here on amazon.com). The 3" padding just makes you want to fall asleep on it after your massage session. [In a pinch, it could also be used as a bed for company...it is that comfortable.]

I purchased the item on 4th of July (Fri.) and received it the following Wednesday -- VERY fast shipment. The only MINOR problem I had was trying to get the shipment box into my house -- shipping box does not come with a handle and it was heavy/awkward to get a grip on the box.

I highly recommend this table (in whatever color you choose to get it in). You will NOT be wasting your money.

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Comment on Rubbermaid 5A43 38-by-36-by-18-Inch Sports Gear Storage Station Reviews by L. Warner

L. Warner — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:11:34 +0000

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

review of sports gear storage, June 25, 2009

L. Warner -

This review is from: Rubbermaid 5A43 38-by-36-by-18-Inch Sports Gear Storage Station (Kitchen)

This storage center fits all the sports items we have from balls, tennis raquets, jump ropes, and baseball gear. It's pretty big and takes up more room than I thought, but is well designed.

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