Overall BEST Elliptical Machine For Full-Body Workout: Bowflex Max Trainer M9 Review

Client: Globalizer

I’ve tried a lot of workout machines looking for results. Only one machine has earned a hands-down win across the board: the Bowflex Max Trainer M9.

If you're in the market for an elliptical or cardio machine that will melt fat and tone muscle, the Max Trainer M9 needs to be at the top of your list. Here’s why…

The M9 is more than just a cardio workout – it’s a personal fitness coach that combines the best of both the elliptical and stepper into a full-body workout, delivering a one-two punch to your training routine (for one heck of a sweat!). Ready to feel the burn? You will not be disappointed.

A Little Bit About Me…and How the Max Trainer M9 Transformed My Fitness Journey

Here’s my story: For years, I’d been chasing a toned, fit body, but never quite reaching my goal. I’d start a routine, find it hard to maintain, then hit a wall and fizzle out. I was desperate to find a fitness program that would keep me motivated. I’d tried it ALL. From Zumba to cardio salsa, yoga-booty-ballet (yep, that’s a thing – don’t ask), and even filled my home with one boring cardio machine after another – a treadmill, elliptical, exercise bike… you name it, I had it. But nothing gave me the results I was looking for. That is, until I found the Bowflex Max Trainer M9.

First off, I was shocked to see that the 14-minute workouts work – I mean, actually work! It didn’t take me long to see results either; I was fitting into clothes I hadn’t worn in months after just 3 weeks of workouts.

Yes, the Max Trainer M9 is a serious game-changer for those who want real results fast. This is a machine built for challenging workouts. What makes this a standout? It’s a hybrid of an elliptical and a stepper, combining them into one powerhouse of a machine. It’s compact, efficient, and, let me be real with you, it’s a tough workout. That’s why it gives me way more results in a fraction of the time. After just 14 minutes of sweat-drenching cardio, I’m feeling like I’ve just completed a 45-minute session. No joke. Just 14 minutes!

So Far, I’ve Lost 15 Pounds (and still counting) With The Bowflex Max Trainer M9

I’ll be honest, finding a machine that actually helps me crush my fitness goals felt like searching for a unicorn. But I found my workout groove with the Max Trainer M9 – it’s truly changed the game for me. I'm a big fan of quick (...because who has the time?), high-intensity sessions, and the M9 delivers that every single time. I love to switch programs up to keep my body working and shredding pounds!

My fitness routine: I alternate between fat-burning and strength-building HIIT Max Trainer M9 workouts 3 days a week. After each 14-minute session, I cool down on the mat with a round of sit-ups, squats, and push-ups – it’s my quick and dirty secret to staying toned, energized, and ready to take on the world. And the results? AMAZING.

I’ve already lost 15 pounds, and I’ve added definition and muscle tone to my legs, arms, and core.

Pro tip: Work from home? Squeeze in a quick session during your lunch break. In those precious 15-20 minute windows, I can train and take five minutes to cool down, and done! I’m back to my day feeling energized and productive – it’s a GREAT energy boost for the afternoon.

Why I’ll Never Go Back To The Gym After Owning The M9

Most days, I’m on a tight schedule – from work calls to project deadlines, classwork, housework, and a dog named Ollie who needs a walk (and a timeout, he knows why) – so any workout routine for me needs to be fast and effective. The Bowflex Max Trainer M9 is perfect for quick hits that get the heart pumping hard. Let me put it this way: In the time it takes me to get in my car and drive to the gym, I can complete my entire M9 workout and cool down. That’s not even mentioning the 2-3 gym machines I’d need to hop on for almost an hour to even get in the same ballpark as the Max Trainer M9’s calorie burn!

5 Reasons Why The Bowflex Max Trainer M9 Beats Out A Standard Elliptical Machine

1. Shorter Workouts, Big ResultsThe number one excuse people give for not working out is, “I don’t have enough time.” That’s why I’m all about that quick, high-intensity calorie burn, and the Bowflex Max Trainer M9 gives me just that in 14 minutes. Yes, that’s 14 minutes a day, 3x a week, and it doesn’t sacrifice on results. No more spending hours in the gym for me. I can get the same (if not better) results with the Max Trainer M9 in a fraction of the time – that’s a win for me.

2. Works Upper And Lower BodyIf you’re looking to get that toned, sculpted body (like, seriously – who isn’t?), the M9 targets everything: your legs, glutes, arms, back, core – the works. I’ve never experienced results this quickly with other machines. The hybrid motion – combining elements of a stair-stepper and elliptical – works my upper body and lower body simultaneously, which means I’m burning more calories and targeting muscles I might have otherwise missed. It’s low-impact, too, which means no joint pain, so I can push myself without worrying about any extra strain on my knees or hips.

3. Touchscreen CoachingI’m low-key obsessed with the 10” HD touchscreen – it’s intuitive and super easy to use, even for someone like me who isn’t a tech expert. I love that it syncs perfectly with the JRNY app to track my progress, gives me real-time pointers, and keeps me motivated. It’s like having a personal trainer in your living room, but without the small talk. And the app gives you a free 2-month trial, which has been more than enough for me to see what it can do.

4. No More Boring WorkoutsThis isn’t your typical boring cardio session. The JRNY app keeps things fresh with personalized workouts, music, and even scenic routes if you wanna pretend you’re working out in Bali. On days when I want a break from the app, I stream Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, or Max right from the M9, so I stay energized. Trust me, this is the kind of motivation you need to stay on track.

5. Compact (But Packs A Punch)No bulky machine here. The Max Trainer M9 stands upright like a step machine, so it has a minimal footprint – about half the size of a treadmill. It’s small enough to fit in my living room and, when I want to move it, it has wheels and is easily carted to another room. Small or not, the Max Trainer is packed with power! Whether I’m crushing my morning routine or squeezing in a session while binge-watching Netflix (again, you can stream your favorite shows right from the M9), this machine works for any schedule or any mood I’m in.

Overall Usability

Pros:

• Quick, Intense Burn: 14 minutes, and you’re DONE.

• Small Footprint: Fits perfectly in my living room or bedroom – no bulky gym equipment here.

• Gorgeous Touchscreen: 10” HD screen to keep you entertained and motivated.

• Full-Body Toning: It works your whole body – legs, arms, glutes, core – you name it.

• Low-Impact: Protects your joints while you burn calories like crazy.

• Textured Pedals: Allows for pristine traction, so you can find your perfect sprint position.

• Versatility: 20 resistance levels.

• Fitness Coach: Built-in JRNY experience.

Cons:

• JRNY Subscription: The app’s fab, but full access is a paid subscription after the free 2-month trial, which will run you up to $20 a month. It’s totally worth it for me, but something to keep in mind.

  
  

My Final Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

In the movie Wall Street, Gordon Gekko says, “If you need a friend, get a dog.” In the trench warfare of fitness machine workouts, if you want to crush your fitness goals and actually stick to your routine, get the Bowflex Max Trainer M9. At the end of the day, it’s all about results, and the M9 gives me just that. From the 14-minute workouts to the sleek compact design, it’s made my fitness journey easy, fun, and attainable. This machine is the BEST workout equipment I’ve ever owned. It’s not just an investment in your fitness – it’s an investment in yourself.