Weider makes both weight stack home gyms and crossbow home gyms (similar to the Bowflex Power Rod Home gyms).
Weider is a subsidiary of ICON Health and Fitness, one of the largest producers of exercise equipment in the world.
Icon also manufactures brands like Proform, Golds Gym, Free Motion, Nordic Track and Reebok
The Weider Crossbow home gyms like the MAX and the Platinum Plus are similar to the Bowflex Power Rod gyms in that they use bendable bars (crossbow or crossbars) to create resistance, (vs. more traditional weight stack machines with plates). The bars come with a lifetime warranty.
These units are compact and lighter than traditional stack machines, more affordable plus they still give you a wide variety of exercises.
The most popular Weider home gym models, are the:
Weider Max $599 - Up to 240 lbs. of quick-change resistance (upgradeable to 340 lbs) and 65 exercises. Compound Resistance System. Rowing seat, lat tower, preacher pad station & expanded leg developer.
Weider Platinum Plus $599 - Up to 240 lbs. of resistance(upgradeable to 340 lbs) and 75 exercises. 5 Workout Stations. Personal Trainer Console & Digital Resistance Control.
Weider crossbow gyms are much more affordable and space efficient than most other home gyms. The Crossbow models may also be a more affordable alternative to the Bowflex Power Rod Gyms.
Another unique feature found on the Weider Platinum Plus is the Digital Resistance Control. This means you can change your resistance with the touch of a button - no manual adjustments needed.
Weider also makes several different types of machine home gyms including traditional weight stack machines, Smith Machines with weight stacks, weight benches, etc.
The main disadvantages of these machine is that they aren't the best choice for serious body builders or those who want to get 'ripped'.
And while they're an affordable alternative to the Bowflex power rod gyms, the overall construction is not nearly as good as the Bowflex gyms. So they may break down faster and easier than the better constructed Bowflex units.
Bottom Line: Great Value If You're On A Budget
If you're on a strict budget but want a decent home gym that will give you a wide variety of exercises, Weider Crossbow home gyms are a great option.
They're affordable, space efficient and can be more lightweight than a standard home gym.
The Weider Max has fairly positive user reviews behind it and it gives you a large range of exercises, lat tower, leg developer and rowing seat - making it an excellent value for the money.
These are however economy home gyms. They are not as well built as other machines (so they may tend to break easier) - a fact seen in generally shorter warranties.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can also save on shipping costs and pick up any closeout deals they're having.
