Your Choice: Bodylastics and Bowflex...

Tired of reading and hearing about Bowflex and the other gyms. Surely there is something not so bulky, or costly, that gives a comparable workout. A search through the vast spaces of the Internet yielded this possibility: Bodylastics.

The Bodylastics system features the use of elastic bands, like big rubber band. Clips placed in various places on the bands allow you to alter the amount of resistance you get from the Bodylastics. Then, the exercises work the same muscles that the traditional fitness equipment does - except you don't have to add a bunch of weights to bars !

Some exercises are done by standing on one end of the elastic bands and stretching the other end with your arms in various movements. Other exercises are done in the opposite direction- by hooking your foot through the handle and holding the other end with your hand and using leg muscles to extend the band outwards. You're pulling against yourself, unlike Bowflex which has you pulling against rods.

Elastic bands offer more resistance as your muscles complete the full stretch of motion. Many people want to know what the difference is between free weights (like dumbbells) and elastic band training? There is little difference. You use the resistance of bands instead of the resistance of dead weight. Your muscles get stronger using elastic bands in the same way they get stronger lifting weights.

Their unique patented system also allows you to hook the bands to a door to get a workout on either both arms or both legs simultaneously. They claim it won't damage your door. Now a little scratch might not bother you at home, but it could be a big problem on the road or at someone else's house.  The padding looks up to the job.

Bodylastics fitness equipment let you travel with your "gym" as well. Somehow, the idea of checking your Bowflex through at the airport just doesn't jell. But with Bodylastics, the bands, handles, and clips can all fit into a bag and slide into your suitcase or even an airplane carry-on bag.

For an additional ten bucks a month, you can sign up for their Strength Band University.  It has programs designed for specific sports like golf and martial arts. Small 15-second video clips demonstrate the exercises clearly.  This is not rocket science with detailed technical drawings and jargon.  It's more like a better mousetrap.  Simple, easy to use, inexpensive and it gets the job done.

Bowflex and Bodylastics Comparison

(This comparison uses Bowflex as a stand in for all home gyms of this type.)

Cost:  Bowflex tends to run over $1,000. The Bodylastics offers a comparable work out  for under $50. You can't get commercial quality for peanuts, and Bowflex does deliver quality. But for those of us on a slim budget looking for a way to slim down, Bodylastics is a good choice.

Space Requirements:  Bowflex takes up an entire corner of a room, more with certain models. The Bodylastics can be used in most any room and then thrown into the corner, or under the bed. Space, who needs space.

Action: Bowflex features patented Power Rods and a lot of bulky fitness equipment that some claim does not allow for full, smooth motion. The Bodylastics are large elastic bands with clips to alter resistance that others say has greater range of movements and offers very natural, smooth motion.

If you're used to the Bowflex or commercial gyms, you may want to stick with what you know and buy a Bowflex, Weider Crossbow or other home gym alternative.  But if you're new to working out, have space restrictions or are on a budget, Bodylastics may be the choice you need to make to get and stay in shape.