The handles that come with the Bowflex are versatile, but long. This limits the effective range of motion in many lifts. Between the gradual resistance of the bows and the handle length, the effective starting position of certain lifts only offers partial reps. This is most pronounced on chest exercises and demonstrated in this video.

Similar to the Short Handles, a Tricep Rope provides alternate ways to engage with the cable resistance. The Tricep Extension might just be the best Tricep Exercise on the Bowflex, but the Rope can be used for other lifts—my favorite being the Resisted Crunch.

Another way to clip to the Cable Resistance, Ankle Straps give you more control than stepping through the Bowflex Handles. If you're looking to do lots of Hip Work and Glute Kickbacks, Ankle Straps are a must!

Workout Gloves are at their best if you sweat a lot and find your grip slipping on the handles or bar. They can also help reduce blisters or calluses when lifting heavy—especially when using a bar.

Personally, I don't use these with every workout, but if I'm doing Lat Pulldowns, Deadlifts, or Shoulder Shrugs, I will be wearing mine!

Before purchasing, ensure your Bowflex is upgradable. There should be additional slots in the rod box for a pair of 50lb rods.

If you have a PR1000, you can still add rods, however, it will void your warranty.

This is a custom kit that I designed and had manufactured to fix everything I thought could be improved on my Bowflex Blaze and PR1000. It includes the Handles and Ankle Straps mentioned earlier, but the main goal of the kit is to add more resistance—and it does that with Elastic Bands. After adding this kit, I never max out on resistance, which was a common problem I had before.

The kit is available with or without a pull bar, since not all Bowflex models come with one. If yours didn't come with a Bar, it's a worthwhile investment and is also sold separately here. For more on the kit, check out the video below.

(Note: The kit is compatible with most Flat Bench Models, but not all. Compatible models are listed in the product description.)

I've looked into designing a similar upgrade kit for Vertical Bench models, but frankly, an off-the-shelf set of Elastic Bands is such an effective solution. This upgrade adds a TON of resistance for not a lot of cost!

Traditional Squats (bar on back) cannot be performed on Bowflexes without Ground Pulleys. The PR1000 and many other models don't have this set of pulleys.

Not everyone likes the extra cushion, but I've always have. If you find Squats uncomfortable because of how the bar rests on your back, this pad will help fix that.

(Note: Individuals with past spine, lower back, or knee issues should consult a doctor prior to squatting. Folks with back issues might find Front Squats or Goblet Squats preferable so weight is not loaded on the back.)