I joined my local volunteer fire department a little over 2 years ago. I went through my initial training in the 1st 6 months. Once I completed the initial schooling, I had the option to take an additional state-level test to give me a higher level of certification. I knew that, especially being a woman, and not being very physically strong, I was going to have to work at it. I had heard from others firefighters (some that did not pass the test) that it was a physically demanding test. I had joined Curves for Women (a workout center for women only) just to get myself moving more, as I was too intimidated to go to a "real gym". I found out quickly that it wasn't for me. The environment wasn't my thing, and the machines did not challenge me enough. Frankly it bored me to tears and I dreaded going.
I started looking at my other options. I didn't want to join a gym as I live in an extremely rural area and there aren't any close by. I kept seeing the Bowlfex commercials on TV. You've seen them I'm sure. So I bet you know the basics, and how they work on power rod technology. So I decided to start checking out prices. I came across a good deal on the Sears website. They had a sale, and they threw in the leg attachment for free, which I really wanted. It normally only came on the more expensive models that I couldn't afford, but for free I was loving the idea. I purchased online to get the sale price and picked it up in the store. We definitely needed a truck and some help loading it. We got it home and my husband had it assembled in about 2 hours.
It is a tall machine, as it has the overhead lat tower. It is a space saving design, but it still takes up a good size area, but I have it in a spare room. I also have a TV in there, making it more inviting to work out. I prefer my workouts in the morning, because at night I have too much going on. Either way, you have to make a commitment and stick to it. You can't build muscle by using it to hang clothes on. I started out working out every day. Then I read that this isn't a good idea. So I went to every other day. I noticed an big difference in my strenth. Am I "ripped" yet? No. Do I feel better? Yes. Some weeks I slack off, and I can notice the difference in my energy level. I need to get back into my routine.
The machine itself is easy to use. It comes with a DVD and booklet to show you each exercise and how to do it. You can customize your workout to work specific muscle groups. Oh, and that certification test I told you about? Yeah, I passed it with flying colors, while some men didn't. Carrying a ladder up another ladder 3 stories while wearing an additional 50 pounds of gear when they're timing you is a real workout. And my Bowflex Extreme helped me get it done.
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I liked this review. :-)
I have always been curious as to whether these machines work well or not. You are proof that they do. Congratulaiton on passing the test! Great review!
Wow... Congrats on passing the test. Shows that commitment to a program really gets the job done!