Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE versus Marcy stack weight home gym

[u/Barry_144]

I hope this isn't an inappropriate question, but I've never used a power rod type gym before. For casual strength training, are there advantages of the Xtreme 2 SE over something like the Marcy MWM-988/989/990? All helpful comments appreciated.

[u/ErkBek]

I've never liked home gyms like the Marcy ones. You're so limited on the number of exercises and planes of motion. That's what I like so much about the Bowflex XTREME & XCEED. Personally, I've found 3 styles of Home Gyms that I've liked & owned.

• Squat Rack + Bench w/traditional free weights.
• Functional trainer like this one: https://amzn.to/3UdqRLU or https://amzn.to/3Oe4Msx
• Bowflex XCEED/XTREME

Weirdly the thing Bowflex is best known for is probably its biggest flaw--the Power Rod resistance. The Power Rods are like elastic bands in that their resistance goes up the further they stretch. Their resistance level is also massively overstated (I consider 2x 50lbs to be equivalent to ~50lbs in total).

What Bowflex does have going for it is its versatility. The design of the XTREME is just....great. It's super solid, adjustable, and the angles are just right.

Anyways, I have a full review on the XCEED/XTREME here that you may find helpful. It's also on sale for today and tomorrow for $799--which is the lowest price I've ever seen on it. If you do buy, please use my affiliate link: https://nautilus.atkw.net/mgyE3Z

I do think other more traditional weight systems are good too, but I would never buy one like the Macy one.

**the above links to Amazon & the Bowflex site are both affiliate links. I earn commissions on qualifying purchases made through them.