Is the Bowflex Revolution Still Worth It? A Complete Guide

The Bowflex Revolution Functional Training System has stood out in the home gym world for its space-saving design and SpiraFlex resistance system, allowing users to perform over 100 exercises in one compact unit. If you’ve been curious about whether the Bowflex Revolution is discontinued, how it actually performs, or if it’s worth picking up a used unit, this guide breaks down what you need to know.

Is the Bowflex Revolution Discontinued?

The Bowflex Revolution and Revolution XP models have indeed seen limited availability, leading many to believe they’re discontinued. While you may still find the Bowflex Revolution for sale used through third-party marketplaces, it is becoming less common to find new units directly from Bowflex. This makes understanding its long-term value even more important if you’re considering investing in one for your home gym.

Folding Dimensions and Space Considerations

One of the Revolution’s strengths is its ability to fold up for storage. The Bowflex Revolution folded dimensions are approximately 55" L x 38" W x 72" H, making it practical for apartments and garages where space is tight. The unit folds up neatly while keeping the resistance plates and bench intact, saving floor space without sacrificing functionality.

What Makes the Bowflex Revolution Different?

Instead of using traditional weight stacks, the Bowflex Revolution uses SpiraFlex plates, providing consistent resistance throughout the range of motion without momentum assisting your lift. This technology, originally developed for NASA, helps replicate the feel of free weights without the same storage footprint.

The bench press on the Revolution is adjustable and comfortable, allowing for flat, incline, and decline chest workouts. The leg press setup is straightforward, with a seat back that adjusts easily to accommodate different user heights while providing a smooth pressing motion. Users can also perform leg extensions, leg curls, and rowing exercises with video guides available online to help refine your form.

Training Versatility

Whether you’re interested in a Bowflex Revolution chest workout or a lower-body day with leg exercises, the Revolution covers it. You can perform:

• Bench press, incline press, decline press

• Lat pulldowns and rows

• Leg presses and extensions

• Core twists and crunches

• Functional movements like cable flyes, woodchoppers, and triceps extensions

The Bowflex Revolution poster and included workout guides can help beginners get started while still offering advanced lifters a variety of challenging workouts.

Buying a Used Bowflex Revolution

Due to limited new inventory, many people search for a Bowflex Revolution home gym for sale used. When buying secondhand, check:

• Condition of the SpiraFlex plates (cracks or resistance inconsistencies)

• Functionality of cables and pulleys

• Stability of the bench and seat back

• Presence of the original accessories, including the leg press plate and handles

If you find a well-maintained unit, it can be a cost-effective way to build a complete home gym without the clutter of multiple machines.

Personal Experience with the Bowflex Revolution

When I first set up the Bowflex Revolution in my small garage, the biggest surprise was how stable and smooth the SpiraFlex resistance felt compared to bands or lighter selectorized machines I’d tried in the past. I was able to perform bench presses, heavy rows, and even leg presses in a single session without feeling like I needed to adjust to a “home gym compromise.” The folding design meant I could reclaim half my garage space when I wasn’t training, and I found myself sticking to my workouts more consistently simply because it was so easy to switch between exercises.

Final Thoughts: Is It Right for You?

The Bowflex Revolution remains a powerful, space-conscious solution for those looking to train at home with a system that covers both strength and functional training needs. While newer models may offer digital integrations, the Revolution’s versatility, reliability, and unique resistance system make it a standout option, particularly if you find one in good condition.

If your goal is to build strength without sacrificing space or if you’re looking for a system that lets you hit everything from a bench press to leg press and functional training movements, the Bowflex Revolution is still worth considering in today’s home gym landscape.