Are you looking for home gym equipment that provides value for money? Look no further. Bowflex® has a new line of trainers that brings elliptical machines to another level—or rather, another direction. Their newest LateralX® machines add lateral movement to the typical back-and-forth and up-and-down movements of an elliptical.
Let’s look at the more cost-friendly model in the LateralX® line, the LateralX L3, and see if it suits your fitness needs.
Bowflex® LateralX® LX3: The Affordable Choice
LX3 Product Specifications:
The Bowflex® LateralX® LX3 gives you a complete body workout right in the comfort of your own home. It features 8 levels of resistance and 7 workout programs that enable you to customize your workouts to suit your fitness goals. An electronic console displays your workout results such as time spent, calories burned, average heart rate, and average resistance level. When you’ve accomplished a preset goal, the console celebrates your achievement by making an audible sound with animated lights.
Use the Bowflex® LateralX® LX3 along with the free instructor-led videos available in the Bowflex™ LateralX™ App to optimize your workout, downloadable both on iOS and Android. There’s also a useful media shelf above the console where you can place your tablet and keep it secure as you exercise.
Features
7.5” Backlit LCD Display
Easy-to-read display shows workout programs, workout results, and other information.
30 Full-length Personal Trainer Led Workout Videos
These videos provide a 12-week workout program from beginner to advanced levels. They contain cross-functional training videos, dumbbell workouts, and high energy classes.
Bluetooth 4.0 Compatible
Can be synced with the Bowflex® LateralX® App for more convenient monitoring of fitness goals and weekly progress. Can also be synced with other compatible fitness apps.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Integrated heart rate contact grips in front of the console detect pulse rate and display heart rate.
8 Levels of Resistance
Resistance levels can be adjusted at any time during the workout.
7 Workout Programs
4 interval workout programs and 3 steady-state programs can be set and customized depending on your specific needs. The interval workout programs include X-mode 16 Minute Interval, Total Body, Stand Squat, and Dual Direction. The steady-state programs available are Fat Burn, Calorie Goal, and Manual.
Fixed Lateral Range
Stride length cannot be adjusted.
Hand Grips
LX3 has two sets of hand grips with integrated contacts for heart rate monitoring.
Media Shelf
A media rack right above the console window conveniently holds personal devices or other accessories.
User Profiles
Allows 2 user profiles to be created. Each profile can be set according to the preferences of the user. Settings saved include screen brightness and current workout program.
Bowflex® Radio
Today’s hits and other playlists are streamed through Bowflex® Radio. Integrated speakers provide clear sound so you can enjoy working out to your favorite music.
Ease of Assembly
A detailed assembly manual, supplemental assembly videos, and online manual provide comprehensible and easy-to-follow instructions to assemble the machine. However, some parts may be bulky so it’ll be best to get an extra pair of hands to help you unbox and put the machine together.
Maintenance
The Bowflex® LateralX® LX3 requires minimal maintenance. Examine for loose or damaged parts before use, and wipe with a damp cloth after use to keep it free of moisture. Give it a more thorough wiping once a week to remove dust, dirt, and grime. Occasionally check crank and pedal arm operations and tighten bolts and screws.
LateralX L3 vs. Other Ellipticals
The Bowflex® LateralX® LX3 is not like your typical elliptical machine. Standard ellipticals only allow back and forth and up and down movements of the pedals, while the L3 also allows lateral side-to-side movement. This helps engage muscle groups that are usually ignored in standard ellipticals. The lateral modification enables you to mimic your regular daily movements and burn more calories. In fact, you can burn about 39% more calories on the L3 than on some of the other quality elliptical machines.
The LX3 vs. LX5
The LX3 is definitely more affordable than Bowflex LX5 and is a good choice for those on a budget. While both can provide a similar low-impact full-body workout, the LX3 offers less flexibility. For one, the lateral stride is fixed in the LX3 while the LX5 features an adjustable lateral range. The LX3 also has fewer resistance levels and workout programs. While these are enough for beginners and intermediates, those looking for higher intensity workouts may find the LX5 a better choice.
Other notable differences include the number of user-profiles and handgrip positions, with the LX5 having double that of the LX3. Moreover, the LX3 doesn’t have a chest strap for wireless heart rate monitoring.
What Users Say About the Bowflex® LateralX® LX3
Most users are satisfied with the Bowflex® LateralX® LX3. Since it allows low impact exercise, some users find it a good trainer for those with bad knees and hips. It’s also a good exercise machine for rehab patients since they can control the pace and focus on specific areas that they need to strengthen. Those who lead busy lives also find it great for quick workouts since the workout programs are just 16 minutes long.
However, the fixed lateral stride does not allow easy adaptability, and there is no wireless heart rate monitor. Some notice that the pulse rate detected by the monitor also isn’t that accurate. Another downside was the machine isn’t foldable, making it require enough space in your home.
Final Thoughts:
The Bowflex® LateralX® LX3 definitely provides a more comprehensive workout than standard elliptical trainers. It works for more muscle groups and enables the easy adjustment of intensity levels. However, hardcore athletes may find the resistance levels insufficient. Overall, the Bowflex® LateralX® LX3 is a good trainer for those who want a quick but effective workout at home.