Looking to Supercharge Your Bowflex Workouts This Year. Discover the Must-Have Barbell Upgrade for More Gains

Looking to Supercharge Your Bowflex Workouts This Year. Discover the Must-Have Barbell Upgrade for More Gains

Select the Right Bowflex Model – Which Bowflex SelectTech model do you own? Ensure compatibility before upgrading.

Upgrading the barbell on your Bowflex home gym can take your strength training to the next level. But before you start shopping around for weight plates and bars, it’s crucial to confirm which Bowflex model you actually own. Nothing is more frustrating than ordering parts and accessories only to find out later that they don’t fit your particular machine! The SelectTech 2080 barbell and weight upgrade options are specifically designed for the Bowflex SelectTech 2080 and Bowflex SelectTech 1090 home gyms. These bestselling models have the attachment points and weight limits required to safely use the heavier barbells and plates. If you own an older Bowflex model like the Extreme 2 or Revolution, check the manufacturer specs to ensure compatibility before purchasing any barbell upgrades. You can usually find the model name and number printed on a sticker or plate on the back or side frames of your Bowflex machine. If you bought it used and aren’t sure of the exact model, look for distinguishing features like the number of vertical columns or included accessories. You may even be able to contact Bowflex customer support and provide a detailed description to get help identifying your gym. It’s well worth taking a few minutes to properly ID your Bowflex before spending money on parts it won’t be able to use. With the right SelectTech 2080 or 1090 model confirmed, you’ll know any recommended barbell upgrades will integrate seamlessly into your current home gym setup.

Understand Weight Limitations – Know the max weight capacity of your Bowflex to pick the optimal upgrade.

The maximum weight capacity of your specific Bowflex model determines how heavy you can safely go with a barbell upgrade. Exceeding the load limits risks overstressing or damaging parts of the machine. For example, the Bowflex SelectTech 2080 has a considerably higher weight tolerance than previous Bowflex designs, with a whopping 300 lb limit on upper body exercises. That gives you plenty of room for continually challenging strength training plate upgrades. On the other hand, the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 is rated for lower maximum weights of 210 lbs on upper body and 310 lbs on lower body lifts. So you’ll need to plan your 1090 barbell upgrades accordingly, likely focusing on smaller 2.5 lb or 5 lb plate increments. Olympic plate sizes may also be too large for the 1090’s compact design. Carefully review your owner’s manual or Bowflex website for specific weight ratings on all exercises, including both upper body and lower body moves. Then factor around 80% of that limit when planning your barbell and plate purchases. Leaving a bit of a buffer zone ensures you stay well within the tested safety limits. With a clear grasp of your Bowflex model’s capabilities, you can strategically customize your barbell upgrade for faster strength gains without compromising exercise form or your own health and safety. Those stats make a huge difference, so reference them as you shop!

Choose Your Ideal Weight Range – Determine the weight range you need for your fitness goals and strength training.

What’s your target weight range for the barbell upgrade? Defining workout weight goals guides you in selecting the right combo of barbell and plates. The included chrome bars with Bowflex home gyms max out around 60-80 lbs when fully loaded with weights. That’s sufficient for general fitness, but serious strength training requires progressively heavier weights for continual gains. With a 300 lb capacity on the Bowflex SelectTech 2080, you’ve got lots of room to grow stronger over time. Most people start with a target range of around 50-150+ lbs for their barbell upgrades. That provides challenging weights for bicep curls, upright rows, squats, and other standard moves. Building a selection of smaller 2.5-5 lb plates lets you gradually increase in smaller increments. Having some 10 lb plates offers bigger jumps when you’re ready. And larger 25-45 lb plates allow loading up the bar for max lift attempts. Just distribute weight evenly on both ends for balance. Consider your current strength levels and fitness objectives. Are you new to strength training, or already lifting heavier? Do you want to gain lean muscle or mainly improve endurance? Answering those questions helps define the ideal weight range for your barbell upgrade.

Pick Olympic or Standard Plates – Olympic plates allow higher weights, but standard plates take up less space.

Olympic vs standard sized weight plates – which is better for a Bowflex barbell upgrade? Each option has unique advantages.

Olympic plates have a larger 2 inch hole diameter and generally go up to heavier individual weights like 45 lbs or 100+ lbs. That makes them ideal for progressively increasing to higher weights. They work with longer Olympic barbells designed for serious lifting.

Standard plates use a smaller 1 inch hole and max out around 25-50 lbs each. They allow more precise weight jumps in smaller 2.5-5 lb increments. Standard sizes take up less storage space on the Bowflex stand.

There’s no universally “best” option – it depends on your goals, available space, and planned weight range. Many people choose a combo of standard plates for smaller increases, plus a few Olympic 45’s for hitting PRs. Just ensure your new barbell matches the hole size of the plates you select.

You can always buy coordinating plate collar locks to secure Olympic plates in place during intense lifts. Weigh the pros and cons and pick the right plate type for how you want to boost your Bowflex workouts. Either can provide the challenge you need!

Calculate How Much Weight You Need – Add up plate weights to reach your desired workout weight. Plan for 2.5-5 lb increments.

Doing some simple weight plate math helps ensure your barbell upgrade provides the right workout challenges. Here are some best practices:

– Pick a max target weight – say 150 lbs for this example

– Start lighter – get a 15 lb barbell to allow 135 lbs of plates

– Mix standard and Olympic plates:
– (4) 2.5 lb standard plates = 10 lbs
– (4) 5 lb standard plates = 20 lbs
– (2) 10 lb standard plates = 20 lbs
– (2) 45 lb Olympic plates = 90 lbs
– Total = 140 lbs (close to target 150 lb max)

– Get at least 2 of each plate increment you buy. You need the same amount of weight on both ends of the barbell for balance.

– Leave room to grow. In this example, you could later add another set of 45’s to hit 165 lbs.

Do the math for your own target weights. Planning it out in advance ensures you get the right plate quantities and sizes, while allowing smooth weight increases. Buying more smaller standard plates gives more incremental options.

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Understand Weight Limitations – Know the max weight capacity of your Bowflex to pick the optimal upgrade.

When looking to upgrade the barbell for your Bowflex home gym, it’s absolutely vital that you understand the specific weight limitations of your model. Exceeding those maximum capacities risks overloading the cables, pulleys, and frame of your machine. That can lead to dangerous equipment failure and possible injury. So be sure to do your homework on the load ratings before purchasing any barbell upgrades.

The full capabilities of Bowflex models vary widely based on the year, frame design, included accessories, and other factors. Many of the all-in-one home gyms built in the early 2000s had fairly low weight tolerances of around 210-270 lbs. But the more recent SelectTech 2080 and 1090 incorporate commercial-grade strength training components with significantly higher weight ratings.

For example, the Bowflex SelectTech 2080 boasts an impressive 300 lb upper body lift capacity. That gives you plenty of room to grow with heavier barbells and plate loads. Just be aware that’s the absolute maximum under ideal conditions – stay a bit below that threshold in your upgrade planning for a margin of safety.

On the other end, the compact SelectTech 1090 is engineered for a reduced 210 lb limit on upper body and 310 lbs on lower body exercises. So while it’s still suitable for barbell training, you’ll need to tailor your upgrades for lighter, more incremental weight jumps. Olympic-sized plates would overwhelm its stand in most cases.

Always carefully reference the owner’s manual and spec sheet for your particular Bowflex model year and configuration. Highlight the weight ratings for both upper and lower body lifts, whichever you plan to use an upgraded barbell for. Those numbers make all the difference in picking the right barbells and plates that your machine can handle safely and effectively.

Here are some best practices when factoring weight capacities into your Bowflex barbell upgrade:

– Reference manual for your specific model’s lift ratings

– Highlight upper and lower body exercise limits

– Consider 80% of max as your working ceiling

– Add weight slowly and incrementally

– Use spotters and proper safety measures

While it may be tempting to push the limits, staying comfortably below your Bowflex’s maximum capacities is smart. Smaller plates allow gradually working up in 2.5-5 lb increments. Listen to your body, focus on proper form, and take it slow. With reasonable precautions, you can safely build strength with the right barbell upgrade. Just respect your particular machine’s weight limitations.

Choose Your Ideal Weight Range – Determine the weight range you need for your fitness goals and strength training.

Defining your target weight range helps narrow down the barbell and plate options for your Bowflex upgrade. Consider factors like:

– Your current strength and experience level

– Specific fitness goals – muscle gain, endurance, general health etc.

– Upper body vs. lower body exercise needs

– Space limitations of your Bowflex model

For example, a beginner lifter aiming for lean muscle growth might opt for a working weight range of around 50-100 lbs. That provides enough challenge to progressively overload muscles without overdoing it.

On the other hand, an experienced gym-goer looking to maintain hardcore power could go for a 180-275 lb range. Just ensure it falls within your particular Bowflex’s tested limits.

Think through the weights you’ll realistically need for your own routine and fitness objectives. This will guide you in choosing the right barbell, plates, and weight increments. You can always start on the lighter end and continue adding plates as you get stronger. Buying more smaller plates allows for gradual increases over time.

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Choose Your Ideal Weight Range – Determine the weight range you need for your fitness goals and strength training.

Selecting the right target weight range for your Bowflex barbell upgrade ensures you get the plates and bars best suited for your training needs and fitness objectives. There are a few key factors to consider when defining your ideal weight range:

Current Strength and Experience Level – Are you totally new to lifting, or do you already have a strength foundation? Where you are starting from determines your upgrade needs. Beginners will want lighter increments to safely build foundational strength and technique. More experienced lifters can incorporate heavier plates to continue increasing their capabilities.

Fitness Goals – What exactly are you aiming to achieve with your Bowflex workouts? If your goal is lean muscle growth, plan for moderate weights in the hypertrophy range (~60-85% of 1 rep max). For maximal strength, go heavier (~80-95% of 1RM). Lighter weights are better for endurance training. Match the range to your goals.

Upper vs. Lower Body – Factor your upper body and lower body strength levels separately. You may be able to lift heavier with your legs on squat exercises versus your arms on bicep curls. Purchase an appropriate variety of plates for each.

Bowflex Model Size and Capacity – Account for the maximum weight limits and storage capacity of your specific Bowflex model. Compact machines may require smaller standard plates that take up less room. Just stay safely below the tested lift rating.

For example, a beginner focusing on lean muscle growth on a Bowflex SelectTech 1090 could target a weight range of around 30-80 lbs. That allows gradually increasing through challenging, hypertrophy-inducing loads without overstressing their body or machine.

On the other hand, a strength athlete with a SelectTech 2080 looking to hit PRs may aim for 140-200+ lbs. The 2080 can safely handle those heavier Olympic plate loads, and the lifter has the experience to lift them with proper form.

Regardless of your goals, it’s smart to start on the lighter end of your target range and slowly add weight in small 5-10 lb increments. Give your body time to adapt while minimizing injury risk. You can always add more plates down the road to hit higher weights. Dialing in the right weight range gets your Bowflex barbell upgrade off to the ideal start!

Pick Olympic or Standard Plates – Olympic plates allow higher weights, but standard plates take up less space.

When upgrading the weights for your Bowflex barbell, you’ll need to choose between standard or Olympic sized plates. Both have advantages depending on your training needs:

Olympic plates are larger in diameter with a 2″ center hole, and typically go up to 45 lbs or higher per plate. They allow you to load up the bar with fewer plates to hit heavy weights, like 4 x 45’s for a 185 lb squat. Olympic plates are ideal for progressive strength training.

The downside is Olympic plates take up more storage space on the Bowflex stand. Also, the standard chrome bars included with most Bowflex machines cannot safely hold plate loads over around 80 lbs or so. You’ll need an upgraded Olympic barbell rated for higher weights.

Standard plates have a smaller 1″ center hole and usually max out around 25-50 lbs each. You’ll need more plates on the bar to hit heavy weights, but standard plates allow smoothly increasing weight in smaller 5-10 lb increments. Great for gradual progressive overload! Standard sizes also take up minimal room on the Bowflexstand.

For most Bowflex owners, a mix of standard and Olympic plates offers the best of both worlds – smaller standard plates for increments, plus a few Olympics for hitting PRs when needed. Just ensure your barbell matches the plate hole size.

Either Olympic or standard plates can work well. Pick what best fits your weight range, strength level, storage space and budget.

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Pick Olympic or Standard Plates – Olympic plates allow higher weights, but standard plates take up less space.

When upgrading the weights for your Bowflex home gym, one key decision is whether to go with Olympic or standard sized plates. Both have their pros and cons depending on your training style, goals, and equipment setup. How do you choose?

Olympic plates are the larger, heavier duty option preferred by serious strength trainers. With a 2″ center hole, Olympic plates start around 5 lbs and go up to 45 lbs or more per plate. Just a few plates can add big weight to your bar quickly. You also have room for continual strength gains by adding more heavy plates over time.

The downside is that Olympic plates take up more storage space on the Bowflex rack. Those big 45’s hang down pretty far! Olympic bars designed for high weight capacities are also longer at around 7 ft, so measure your space.

Standard plates offer more incremental weight options in smaller packages. With 1″ center holes, standard plates usually range from 2.5 to 25 lbs per plate. Adding sets of these smaller plates allows smoothly progressive weight jumps of just 2.5-5 lbs.

The compact size of standard plates also leaves the bottom weight posts of your Bowflex stand open for accessories like dip bars. But you’ll need lots of plates on the bar to hit heavy weights like 185+ lbs.

So which is the better choice for your Bowflex barbell upgrade? Here are some guidelines:

Olympic – Best for:

• Training heavy weights and aiming for big 1 rep maxes
• Quickly progressing in larger weight increments
• Advanced lifters with strength foundations

Standard – Best for:

• Precise weight jumps of just 2.5-5 lbs
• Beginner and moderate lifters focusing on technique
• Small home gyms with limited storage space

For most Bowflex owners, the hybrid approach works great – use standard plates for smaller increases, then add 1-2 Olympic 45’s to hit PRs when needed. Just ensure your barbell matches the plate hole size. Dialing in the right mix lets you progressively overload muscles while fitting your space.

Calculate How Much Weight You Need – Add up plate weights to reach your desired workout weight. Plan for 2.5-5 lb increments.

Doing some quick calculations on paper before buying plates ensures your Bowflex barbell upgrade provides the right workout weight selections and increments to match your routine.

Here’s a simple example for a target max weight of 185 lbs:

• 15 lb barbell
• 2 x 45 lb Olympic plates = 90 lbs
• 2 x 5 lb standard plates = 10 lbs
• 2 x 2.5 lb standard plates = 5 lbs
• Total = 185 lbs

Buying multiples of the same smaller standard plates allows smoothly increasing weight by 2.5 or 5 lbs each session. Having a few big Olympic plates kicks in larger jumps when you’re ready for PBs.

Do the math for your own target weights and plate preferences. Planning it out helps build the right plate collection.

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Calculate How Much Weight You Need – Add up plate weights to reach your desired workout weight. Plan for 2.5-5 lb increments.

Doing some quick calculations before purchasing plates for your Bowflex barbell upgrade ensures you get the right amounts to match your target workout weights. Buying multiples of the same smaller plates allows smoothly increasing load in small 2.5-5 lb increments each session.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning your plate math:

1. Pick your max goal workout weight – say 185 lbs for this example
2. Get a lighter 15-20 lb barbell to allow more plates
3. Write down plate sizes and weights needed to reach 185 lbs:
   • 2 x 45 lb Olympic plates = 90 lbs
   • 2 x 5 lb standard plates = 10 lbs
   • 2 x 2.5 lb standard plates = 5 lbs
4. Add the weights together – in this case, 90 + 10 + 5 = 185 lbs
5. Buy multiple sets of standard plates for small increases

Having a range of smaller standard plates (2.5’s, 5’s, 10’s) lets you progressively add just a few more pounds each session. Throwing on a big 45 lb Olympic plate quickly scales up intensity when needed.

Some best practices when calculating plate loads:

• Aim for 2.5-5 lb increments
• Buy at least 2 of each plate for balance
• Leave room to grow – don’t max out capacity yet
• Factor in a lighter 15-20 lb barbell
• Mix standard and Olympic plates

Doing some quick math on paper before buying helps get the exact plates and quantities you need for your target weights. And remembering to purchase multiples of the same plates ensures you can incrementally progress load evenly on both sides of the barbell. Dialing in the right plate selection will take your Bowflex barbell upgrades to the next level!

Select Your Barbell Material – Chrome, stainless steel or ceramic coated bars all have pros and cons.

The right barbell material provides the best grip and performance for your Bowflex workouts. Key factors to consider are:

• Chrome – Most affordable, but can be slippery when hands sweat
• Stainless steel – More grip and corrosion resistance
• Cerakote – Coated for best grip, but expensive

Chrome is the standard finish found on most basic barbells like those included with Bowflex machines. It has a nice shine and smooth feel, but provides minimal grip when lifting heavy weights, especially during intense training when hands sweat.

Upgrading to a bar with a stainless steel finish adds durability and grip. The natural texture of brushed or annealed steel creates friction to keep the bar firmly in your hands. Stainless steel also resists corrosion from perspiration during workouts.

For the ultimate grip, ceramic Cerakote coated bars are professionally finished with a textured ceramic surface. The porous coating bites into your palms for serious holding power when lifting PRs! A quality Cerakote barbell combines high grip with stunning aesthetics.

Consider your budget, training style, and preferences when selecting barbell material. Any finish is fine for general training, but stainless steel and ceramic bars excel when intensity increases. Secure your grip and upgrade performance!

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Select Your Barbell Material – Chrome, stainless steel or ceramic coated bars all have pros and cons.

Choosing the right barbell material provides the ideal combination of durability, grip, and performance to take your Bowflex workouts up a notch. What are the top options to consider?

Chrome

Chrome plating gives barbells an attractive shiny finish and smooth feel during lifts. This is the standard coating found on most basic barbells, including those bundled with Bowflex home gyms. Chrome has a nice aesthetic appeal.

The downside is that chrome can become slippery during intense training when hands sweat. The low friction offers minimal grip on heavy lifts, putting more strain on your hands and wrists. Chrome bars are best suited for general fitness rather than hardcore strength training.

Stainless Steel

Upgrading to a barbell made of raw stainless steel significantly improves grip and performance under load. The natural grainy texture of steel creates just enough friction against your palms to keep the bar firmly in hand – even when sweating at high intensity.

Stainless steel also provides excellent corrosion resistance from the salt and acids in sweat, maintaining its look and feel over years of use. This is an ideal barbell material for serious strength training and progressively overloading muscles.

Cerakote

For the ultimate high-performance grip, Cerakote ceramic coated barbells represent the pinnacle for serious lifters. These bars undergo a professional-grade ceramic coating process that bonds to the steel.

The porous Cerakote finish has a rough, sandpaper-like feel that bites into your palms. The incredible friction lock keeps heavy weights grounded during max effort lifts when other bars may slip. The coating also resists corrosion and has stunning visual appeal.

Consider your budget, priorities, and training style when choosing barbell material. While basic chrome is fine for general fitness, stainless steel or ceramic bars excel when lifting heavier. Upgrade your barbell along with plates to boost strength, performance, and results!

Upgrade Safety with Collars – Get spring collars to secure Olympic plates in place during workouts.

Adding quality spring collars is a cheap but valuable upgrade that importantly improves safety when lifting heavier weights on your Bowflex barbell. Collars act like clamps to tightly secure Olympic-sized plates in place at each end of the bar.

During intense lifts like squats or deadlifts, the inertia of bumper plates can cause them to slide around or wobble on cheaper bars lacking knurling. Unsecured plates risk slipping completely off the bar, causing immediate imbalance and potential injury. No bueno!

High tension spring collars completely eliminate this hazard by locking plates solidly in position for your entire workout. The strong compressed coils keep a vice-like grip until you manually twist them off. This provides peace of mind when aggressively powering heavy Olympic plate loads up and down.

Collars also allow you to strategically load different sizes and amounts of plates per side to accommodate imbalances or injuries while keeping things stable. Plus the rigid bar ends prevent annoying clanking noises during your workout.

Protect your investment in Olympic plates and upgrade to spring collars for rock-solid security on big lifts. Confidently push your limits knowing plates are locked safely in place!

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Upgrade Safety with Collars – Get spring collars to secure Olympic plates in place during workouts.

When upgrading your Bowflex with heavier Olympic plates, adding high quality spring collars is a simple but valuable investment to lock everything securely in place for safe, stable lifting. Here’s why collars are a must-have:

During intense lifts like squats, deadlifts, and rows, the sheer inertia of bumper plates can cause them to slide around or wobble on cheaper bars lacking proper knurling. This risks plates literally slipping right off the ends of the bar and crashing down, creating immediate imbalance and potential injury. No good!

Spring collars prevent this hazard by gripping Olympic plates tightly in place for your entire workout. The compressed steel coils act like clamps, keeping plates locked solidly at each end of the barbell until you manually twist them off.

This gives you stability and security to aggressively power through reps, fully utilizing those big plates without worry of them moving. The vice-like grip of collars also allows strategically loading different sized plates per side to work around imbalances or injuries while keeping things rigid.

Collars also eliminate annoying clanking noises that can occur during lifts as loose bumper plates rattle against each other and the barbell sleeves. The tight fit keeps things quiet and focused.

High-end spring collars feature robust steel construction and heavy spring tension to withstand hundreds of max effort lifts over years of use. Cheaper versions may deform or lose grip quickly, creating safety issues. Quality matters here.

For Olympic lifters, properly securing loose plates is non-negotiable for stability and injury prevention. But even casual Bowflex users can benefit from the safety upgrade and noise reduction collars provide when lifting heavier. Think of collars as insurance for your investment in plates and your own body.

Take the time to twist on spring collars at each workout for confidence and security when hitting PRs!

Improve Grip with Knurling – Deep barbell knurling provides better grip, especially for sweaty hands.

Good grip strength is crucial when lifting heavier weights to fully activate muscles while minimizing hand and wrist strain. Deep barbell knurling provides the tactile grip needed for big PRs:

Knurling refers to the crosshatched pattern of lines machined into the contact points along the bar. This textured finish digs into your palms to create friction and traction when gripping the bar tight. Without knurling, hands can slip.

The deeper and more aggressive the knurl pattern, the better it will perform for grip during intense, high-weight lifts when hands sweat. Light generic knurling tends to become slippery.

However, very sharp knurls can also pinch hands and leave abrasions during higher rep sets. Find a bar with medium knurling that bites but doesn’t shred skin.

Also look for a bar with knurling across the entire grip area rather than just the center. This allows securing different widths and hand positions.

Upgrade your shaky grip and tame heavier weights with a barbell knurled for serious lifting. Just beware the most aggressive crosshatch patterns if doing higher volume sets. A properly knurled barbell empowers your strongest lifts!

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Improve Grip with Knurling – Deep barbell knurling provides better grip, especially for sweaty hands.

When upgrading the barbell for your Bowflex, seek out a bar machined with proper knurling to empower your grip for big lifts. Here’s what to know about knurling and why it matters:

Knurling refers to the crosshatched pattern of engraved lines covering the grip sections of a barbell. This textured criss-cross design provides friction against your palms to keep the bar firmly locked in hand – even when hands get slippery with sweat during intense lifts.

Without deep barbell knurling, hands can slide along the smooth steel during exercises like deadlifts and rows. This risks losing control of heavier weights and compromising safety. Proper knurling gives you the tactile traction needed to hang on tight.

However, super aggressive knurls with very sharp corners can be punishing on your skin, leaving painful scrapes and tears after sets of high-rep movements like curls or presses. There’s a sweet spot between being too dull and too extreme.

Seeking a bar with medium depth knurling across the entire grip section allows you to choke up tightly without shreding skin, even for higher volume sets. The goldilocks knurl provides both security and comfort across different hand positions.

Also consider how your specific technique and hand placement impacts knurling effectiveness. For example, a narrower thumbless “false” grip needs more aggressively textured center knurling versus a wider overhand grip.

Dialing in the right knurl design to match your lifting style and strengths is crucial. Compare press demo samples to find a barbell knurled for peak performance without pain. Take control of heavy weights!

Shop Bowflex Barbell Upgrades – Find great sales on barbells and plates for your Bowflex machine.

Searching for where to buy upgrades for your Bowflex that won’t break the bank? Here are some tips for scoring deals:

– Check Bowflex website specials – they often discount their premium bars and plates. Sign up for alerts on sales.

– Look for Bowflex compatible options at retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Walmart. Sort by customer reviews.

– Search Amazon for “Bowflex barbell” and “Bowflex weights” filtered by your budget. Read the product details closely.

– Scour used listings on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace in your area. Be prepared to thoroughly inspect condition and wear.

– Take advantage of holiday sales events like Black Friday and Labor Day for clearance deals on fitness gear.

– Check manufacturer websites like Rogue Fitness for high-end bars and plates that work with Bowflex.

– Don’t overlook the value of standard metal weight plates from sports stores. You can often find affordable deals on basic iron plate sets to save money.

With some savvy shopping, you can upgrade your Bowflex barbell and bumper plates without overspending. Prioritize quality over cost, and take time to research products thoroughly before purchasing. Invest wisely and start lifting heavier today!

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Shop Bowflex Barbell Upgrades – Find great sales on barbells and plates for your Bowflex machine.

Searching for the best deals on upgrading your Bowflex with a heavier barbell and bumper plates? Here are some tips for scoring discounts and value:

Check the official Bowflex website frequently for specials on their premium barbells and weight plates optimized for your machine. Bowflex runs sales and clearance events throughout the year, which can save you big on their higher-end gear. Sign up for their promotional emails to get alerts on current deals.

Big box sporting goods stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Walmart, and Academy often stock Bowflex accessory packages with bars and plates at decent prices. Browse their fitness equipment section or search “Bowflex” online to see current inventory. Sort by customer reviews and look for free shipping or bundle offers.

Searching Amazon for phrases like “Bowflex barbell” or “Bowflex bumper plates” is another great way to find compatible options, filtered by your budget range. Closely read through product descriptions and specs to ensure items match your specific Bowflex model’s sizing and weight limits. Comb through user reviews as well for potential red flags.

Check used marketplaces like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for people selling Bowflex parts and upgrades in your local area. Inspect items thoroughly in person before purchasing to ensure good condition without excessive wear. Haggle for deals on used gear.

Timing shopping around major holiday sales events can mean big savings on fitness equipment. Keep an eye out for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Labor Day sales for aggressive clearances on barbells and weights.

Even if not branded specifically for Bowflex, Olympic barbells and plates from quality manufacturers like Rogue Fitness can often work with the right attachments. Check their websites for premium gear discounted or on sale.

Standard iron plate sets are a budget-friendly option readily available at most sports stores. While basic, these affordable plates still provide weight for your key lifts. Prioritize versatility and value in your Bowflex upgrade shopping.

With some savvy searching and timing, you can upgrade your barbell and plates without breaking the bank. Invest wisely in the quality elements that matter most for your strength training. Then start reaping the gains!

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Try a Curl Bar for Variety – Get an EZ curl bar for bicep exercises and switch up your routine.

Beyond a straight barbell, consider adding an EZ curl bar to your Bowflex upgrades for enhanced bicep and arm workouts. Here’s how a curl bar can boost your fitness variety:

A curl bar has an angled zig-zag shape with multiple hand positions ideal for targeted bicep training. The unique shape places your wrists in a natural supinated position when gripping the middle bend. This isolates and intensifies activation of the biceps through their full range of motion with curls.

The straight shape of a standard barbell locks wrists into a pronated position. While fine for compounds like squats or presses, this misses peak bicep activation during arm exercises. The fixed hand placement can also strain wrists over time.

A quality curl bar with ergonomic geometry allows freely rotating wrists into a comfortable curling motion that fully works the biceps through deep contraction and extension. The varied grip options enable targeting different areas of the biceps for complete development.

Curl bars come in a variety of widths – thinner bars for peak contraction, wider bars for outer bicep emphasis. Choose a bar with knurling suited for high-rep sets, and load it with smaller standard plates for focused arm training.

The unique shape and specialized grips of a curl bar provide bicep activation and muscle recruitment you just can’t get with a basic straight bar. Upgrade your arm workouts with new exercises and challenges!

Combine With a Weight Bench – Use a bench with your new barbell for even more exercise options.

Want to unlock the full potential of your Bowflex barbell upgrade? Combine it with a quality weight bench for a complete home gym setup allowing endless exercise variations and muscle development:

A flat bench opens up staples like barbell bench press, incline press, and lying tricep extensions. Adjustable incline positions hit different chest areas.

Add a vertical bench for shoulder presses – both seated and standing. Upright rows also blast the delts.

With a combo flat/incline bench, the possibilities expand even further. Barbell front raises, pullovers, flyes, and more become options for muscle growth.

Having an adjustable bench with a Bowflex multi-gym means you’re not limited to just lower body barbell lifts. Hit every muscle from multiple angles by combining free weights with a bench.

Look for a sturdy bench designed to handle heavy barbell lifts. Prioritize adjustability and durable yet comfortable padding. Store it alongside your Bowflex and grab quick gains!

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Combine With a Weight Bench – Use a bench with your new barbell for even more exercise options.

Take your Bowflex barbell upgrade to the next level by pairing it with a quality weight bench. This unlocks endless strength training exercises for full body muscle development.

A flat bench is the most versatile option, allowing staples like barbell bench press, chest flyes, and lying tricep extensions. Adjustable incline positions enable targeting different areas of the chest and shoulders.

Adding a vertical bench opens up seated and standing shoulder presses to sculpt the delts. Upright rows also carve details into the shoulders, traps, and upper back.

For the ultimate setup, look for an adjustable bench that converts between flat and incline positions. This provides both pressing and shoulder angles to hit each muscle from multiple positions.

With a Bowflex machine, bench, and barbell – the exercise options are endless for sculpting physique. Hit the chest and front delts with barbell bench variations. Blast the shoulders and triceps with overhead presses. Add curls for bicep peaks.

Having an adjustable bench for both flat and incline pressing enables incrementally adjusting the backrest to target different areas. Slight inclines hit upper pecs while flat builds middle chest mass.

When shopping for a workout bench, prioritize sturdy steel construction and thick, durable padding. Quality matters for stability during heavy barbell lifts. Look for easy seat adjustments and a lift-off spotter rack.

With the right bench, your Bowflex becomes a total gym for strength, mass, and aesthetics. Unlock your anabolic potential through endless exercise angles. Scout used marketplaces for deals on commercial grade gear. Then get pressing!

Maximize Space With a Rack – Vertical storage racks keep plates organized and out of the way.

When upgrading your Bowflex barbell with a full set of weight plates, a vertical storage rack helps maximize space by stowing everything compactly when not in use.

Especially with larger Olympic plates, having a dedicated rack keeps them neatly organized rather than cluttering up the room. The vertical design minimizes footprint while making it easy to slide plates on and off the storage posts.

Look for a sturdy rack with posts that accommodate both standard and Olympic plate sizes. Many racks include integrated barbell holders at the top for convenience.

If floor space is very limited, wall-mounted plate racks are also available. Or get a compact rack with wheels that tucks away in the corner but rolls out when it’s time to lift.

Having an orderly rack makes plate selection easy during workout prep. Storing the barbell separately helps protect knurling from wear over time as well. No more tripping over rogue dumbbells!

Invest in a quality storage rack and keep your growing plate collection organized for fast access and safety. Save space while lifting smarter.

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Maximize Space With a Rack – Vertical storage racks keep plates organized and out of the way.

When upgrading your Bowflex with a full set of barbell weight plates, storage can become an issue. Bulky bumper plates laid randomly on the floor can create clutter and trip hazards. A dedicated weight plate rack provides organized, vertical storage to optimize space.

Vertical racks allow neatly arranging plates of mixed types and sizes on loading pins or shelves. This keeps everything securely in place rather than loose on the floor, while the compact footprint fits easily in a corner.

Quality racks are constructed from heavy steel tubing with durable powder coating for stability and corrosion resistance from moisture. Pins and shelves should smoothly accommodate both standard and Olympic sized plates.

Many racks integrate convenient barbell holders at the top to store your bar safely when not in use. This helps protect the knurling from inadvertent damage over time.

If floor space is extremely limited, consider wall-mounted plate storage options. Horizontal wall racks screw securely to studs and use brackets to neatly hang plates vertically. Great for small apartments!

For the garage gym owner on a budget, even basic modular shelving units from hardware stores can work. Just ensure the shelves can safely support heavyweight plates without buckling.

A premium floor rack on wheels provides the best of both worlds – dense vertical storage that conveniently rolls wherever needed. Just be sure to anchor it to prevent tipping.

An organized plate tree ensures you can quickly and easily grab the exact plates needed for each workout. No more searching through stacks of strewn bumpers! Regularly loading and unloading also provides natural grip and forearm training.

Invest in a sturdy plate rack that fits your space and budget. Keep those plates neatly stowed but always at the ready.

Employ Perfect Form to Avoid Injury – Learn proper lifting form to stay safe as you increase weight.

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Employ Perfect Form to Avoid Injury – Learn proper lifting form to stay safe as you increase weight.

As you upgrade your Bowflex workouts with heavier barbells and plates, maintaining flawless exercise form becomes crucial for joint health and injury prevention. Here are some tips:

Film yourself performing key lifts from multiple angles to analyze form. Watch videos of professional instructors for visual cues. Identify any form breakdowns that increase injury risk.

Common technique errors like rounding the back during deadlifts or pressing, or letting knees cave inward on squats put dangerous shear forces on the spine and joints. Catch and correct any issues.

Start light when learning new exercises, slowly mastering form before increasing load. Lifting too heavy with poor form is a fast track to injury. Leave ego aside.

Invest in a few private training sessions for experienced coaching on major compound lifts like squats, presses, deadlifts, and rows. ACueing proper bracing and movement patterns.

Use lighter warmup sets to dial in positioning and muscle activation before heavier working sets. Treat each rep as practice, not just a numbers game.

While machines control range, free weights require extra focus on control. Lower and raise weights smoothly without jerking motions. Time under tension boosts gains.

Listen to your body. Stop any exercise that causes abnormal pain or discomfort. Muscle soreness is expected, but not sharp joint pain.

Perfect practice makes perfect. Film often, lift light, seek guidance, and focus on quality. Lifting right matters more than lifting heavy. Save your body!

Start Light and Progress Slowly – Don’t push too much weight too soon. Build up strength over time.

Avoid getting overzealous and pushing excessive weight too quickly when upgrading your Bowflex barbell. Building strength is a gradual process requiring patience.

Pushing your limits without a base of proper technique risks injury fast. Start light to nail down form before worrying about load.

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Start Light and Progress Slowly – Don’t push too much weight too soon. Build up strength over time.

It’s tempting to want to slap on the big plates when first upgrading to a heavier Bowflex barbell. But adding too much weight too quickly before developing proper strength and technique is a recipe for injury. Have patience and build gradually.

Pushing your limits without a base of flawless form risks immediately straining muscles, tendons, and ligaments past capacity. Starting lighter allows your body to safely adapt under load over time.

Aim to increase weight conservatively in small 5-10 lb increments each week or two for key compound lifts. This provides progressive overload to spur muscle growth without overwhelming your body.

Use a training journal to track weights and reps on each lift. Score more reps with the same weight before bumping up. Give connective tissues time to strengthen in tandem with muscles.

On pressing or squat exercises, have spotters ready or utilize safety racks for failure protection. Failing safely enables pushing hard while minimizing injury risk.

Vary load and volume each session to avoid overtaxing certain movement patterns. Heavy low-rep lifting taxes the nervous system. Balance it out with higher rep metabolic work.

Listen to warning signs like joint pain, numbness, or sharp pulling. Stop any exercise that causes abnormal discomfort. Some muscle soreness is expected, but not sharp localized pain.

Patience pays off in the long run. Pushing past your current abilities too aggressively now can derail progress for good. Build a strength foundation first before testing limits.

Reach New Fitness Goals This Year! – A Bowflex barbell upgrade lets you lift heavier and get stronger fast.

This is the year to finally crush those strength goals and bring your Bowflex workouts to the next level! Upgrading to a high quality barbell set allows progressively lifting heavier weights to pack on lean muscle and maximize performance.

Dialing in the right barbell, plates, bench, and accessory upgrades tailored to your specific Bowflex model and fitness objectives removes limitations. Follow a smart progressive loading plan that continually challenges your body to adapt and get stronger over time.

With an optimized upgrade kit, perfect lifting form, and bit of patience – massive PRs and muscle growth are right around the corner. Use this guide to find your Bowflex gains!

Reach New Fitness Goals This Year! – A Bowflex barbell upgrade lets you lift heavier and get stronger fast.

This is the year you finally crush those lingering strength goals and take your Bowflex workouts to the next level! Upgrading to a high quality barbell set allows progressively lifting heavier weights to spur muscle growth, boost power, and maximize gym performance.

Dialing in the right barbell, plates, bench, and accessories tailored to your specific Bowflex model removes limitations. You can continually challenge your body with heavier loads that force adaptation and increased capabilities over time.

A smart progressive loading plan that incrementally increases weight session to session provides steady strength gains without overdoing it. Patience is key – build gradually rather than chasing quick fixes.

With a properly equipped Bowflex home gym, dedication to perfect exercise form, and small consistent weight increases – massive PRs and muscle growth are right around the corner.

This guide provides tips on selecting the right barbell, plates, and accessories for seamless integration and performance with your current Bowflex machine.

Key considerations covered include:

• Confirming model compatibility
• Understanding your weight limits
• Calculating your ideal weight range
• Choosing Olympic vs standard plates
• Factorng smaller vs larger increments
• Barbell material effects on grip and corrosion
• Knurling for improved traction
• Collars to secure Olympic plates
• Finding deals on Bowflex upgrades

With the right barbell upgrade kit tailored to your fitness objectives and current abilities, those lingering 1 rep max goals are easily within reach this year. Now get lifting!