The Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE is the top model in the company's Xtreme range of power rod-resistance home gyms. It offers a significant improvement over the baseline Xtreme model in that it requires no cable changes from one exercise to another; we find that this makes the Xtreme 2 SE both easier and quicker to use. It is also ideal for circuit training, as you can switch from one exercise to another with minimal downtime in order to maintain heart rate.

Like the other Xtreme models, the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE uses a vertical bench, which minimizes the space needed to accommodate this unit. To allow enough room for the power rods to curve out during use, you'll need approximately 100X78 inches of workout space in your home. The Xtreme 2 SE stands 6 feet, 10 inches tall and accommodates users of up to a maximum weight of 300 pounds.

This home gym is extremely versatile -- it is capable of delivering more than 70 gym-quality exercises for a full-body workout. The lat tower adjusts to two positions and the included squat station offers four adjustable positions. A leg attachment is included as standard, as is an abdominal crunch shoulder harness.

The Xtreme 2 SE's standard amount of weight resistance is limited to 210 pounds; we find that the power rod system offers less resistance than traditional weight plates, so we recommend that advanced and intermediate users upgrade to the 310 or 410 pounds resistance rods for a more challenging workout. The Xtreme 2 SE is easy to use, although those who are accustomed to exercising with traditional weight stack machines may find that working out with a power rod-based unit takes some getting used to. We also find that the range of motion in certain exercises is more restricted.

As with the other Bowflex brand home gyms that we've tested, the Xtreme 2 SE is a smooth, stable, solidly constructed piece of equipment that should deliver years of exercise. It is somewhat expensive, but it is also durable, versatile and easy to use.


Pros: Compact, sturdy design, no cable changes to switch from one exercise to another, wide variety of exercise options, includes leg attachment
Cons: Non-moveable upright bench, 210-pound maximum resistance without upgrade

Warranty
Lifetime, rods; 7 years, machine