Bowflex® lets you get an intense workout without straining your joints with the LateralX®. The LateralX® enables you to do a low-impact high-intensity workout by combining an elliptical’s two-way movement with side-to-side lateral movement.
Bowflex® released two models in the LateralX® line. Let’s check out the Bowflex® LateralX® LX5 and see what makes it better than normal ellipticals.
Bowflex® LateralX® LX5
Bowflex® LateralX® LX5 Product Specifications:
The Bowflex® LateralX® LX5 is arguably one of the best elliptical machines today. It boasts of 10 levels of resistance, 10 workout programs, adjustable lateral range, performance suspension pedals, and dynamic hand grips. These features let you customize your workouts and ensure that you get optimal results.
Features
7.5” Backlit LCD Display
The strategically placed LCD display shows workout information such as time, calories, sprint, recover, lateral stride, and heart rate.
30 Workout Videos
Full-length videos led by Bowflex fitness trainers guide and motivate you to reach your fitness goals. These videos include a 12-week workout program that can help you increase your fitness level from beginner to advanced.
Bluetooth 4.0 Compatible
The LX5 easily connects with the Bowflex LateralX Fitness App and can also work with other fitness apps from digital partners.
Switch Select Pedal Suspension Technology
Angle and impact resistance of the pedals can be adjusted to manage specific muscle groups.
Heart Rate Monitoring
A heart rate transmitter chest strap allows the more accurate monitoring of heart rate during exercise. The console reads the telemetry signals from the transmitter and displays the heart rate in the console.
10 Levels of Resistance
Ten resistance levels that can be manually adjusted during exercise allow more high-intensity workouts.
10 workout programs
Includes the standard Steady State Programs: Fat Burn, Calorie Goal, and Manual. It also features 7 Interval Workout Programs which include X-mode 16 Minute Interval, Lateral Stride Interval, Thigh Toner Interval, Quad Power Interval, Total Body, Stand Squat, and Dual Direction.
Adjustable Lateral Range
Side-to-side motion can be adjusted to customize the intensity and comfort level in every workout.
Hand Grips
LX5 has 4 sets of hand grip positions for more dynamic workouts.
User Profiles
It can save personal settings for up to 4 users. Information of the last user is saved automatically and is shown on the next power-up.
Media Shelf
A small rack above the console window which can hold gadgets and accessories. It contains a charging port to keep your devices powered.
Calorie Goal Program
A calorie counter goal that can be customized from a minimum of 50 calories to a maximum of 9950 calories.
Ease of Assembly
It is recommended that two people assemble the machine. Even if you can easily understand the instructions in the detailed assembly manual, some components are heavy and can be tricky to handle on your own.
In case you need more visual instructions, you can also go to their website for the online manual and supplemental assembly videos.
Maintenance
The LX5 needs minimal maintenance. Just wipe it with a damp cloth after every workout to keep it free from moisture. Once a week, give it a thorough wipe to prevent the buildup of dust, dirt, or grime. Regularly check crank and pedal arm operation and other parts. Once a month, check the bolts and screws and tighten them if necessary.
Bowflex® LateralX® LX5 vs Other Ellipticals
Like other elliptical cross trainers, the LX5 is good for low-impact exercise. What sets the LX5 apart is the lateral modification that allows more diverse movement. With movement in three different planes, the LX5 can mimic day-to-day movement. It also sculpts muscles that are usually ignored in standard ellipticals. It works not only on your glutes, quads, and calves but also on your chest, shoulders, and arms. When used with the guided interval workout, you can burn an average of 39% more calories than self-paced elliptical workouts.
Probably the only downsides to LX5 are its steep price and bulky size. It takes less floor space than treadmills but is larger than the standard elliptical. It’s also not foldable so you’d need ample space in your home for it.
LX5 vs. LX3
The LX5 is around $1,000 costlier than the Bowflex LX3 but it’s well worth the additional investment. The LX5 is more versatile and can provide better lower body workout and body sculpting. Unlike the LX3, the lateral range in LX5 is adjustable for better control on the side-to-side motion. It also has 4 hand grip positions compared to the 2 in the LX3. The adjustable lateral range and upgraded handlebars provide better crosstraining options.
LX5 also has more user profiles, resistance levels, and workout programs available. Moreover, the LX5 offers better heart rate monitoring with its wireless heart rate strap. This provides a more accurate heart rate than the handgrip contacts in LX3.
Performance-wise, the LX5 is definitely much better than LX3. Top it with a better warranty, and the LX5 is the LateralX machine you should get if you can shell out the extra cash.
What People Say About the Bowflex® LateralX® LX5
Through the LateralX® LX5, elderly users find that they can stay in shape without feeling any pain. They are able to get a good workout without straining their joints. For busy parents, the LX5 enables them to squeeze some exercise between chores and work. Most of the workout programs are just 16 minutes long so it’s great for people with busy lifestyles. The LateralX® LX5 also provides a workout that mimics the actions we do in our daily lives. It can be a bit pricey but it gives excellent results.
Final Thoughts:
The Bowflex® LateralX® LX5 is undoubtedly among the most innovative pieces of home gym equipment today. It can give you a high intensity yet low impact workout for overall body fitness. It empowers you to set goals and stay fit even with a hectic schedule. It also provides a more comprehensive workout than elliptical trainers, making it well worth its price.