# Bowflex SelectTech — user reviews

> 51 indexed App Store user reviews of Bowflex SelectTech by Nautilus, Inc., rated 2.74/5 from 191 ratings.

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/bowflex-selecttech/id1017061254/reviews
- App overview in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/bowflex-selecttech/id1017061254.md
- Rating breakdown: 5★ 34 · 4★ 39 · 3★ 27 · 2★ 26 · 1★ 65

## Newest reviews (15 of 51)

### 3/5 — Closes and loses my place when I get a call

*2022-06-02, version 2.2.0*

It’s pretty useful. But I wish I could preview the exercise video before the start of it (while I’m pausing between sets).
More annoying is that if I get a phone call during the workout, the app closes and I lose track of where I was. Unable to pickup where I was when the call came in. I guess I have to workout in Airplane Mode?

### 2/5 — No instructional videos

*2021-11-28, version 2.2.0*

Cannot view instructional videos, as the app crashes every time the play button is pressed.  This is a ridiculous problem for such an app to have.

### 2/5 — Would be a decent app if it were to stop crashing

*2021-09-10, version 2.1.0*

App has some good features to complement Bowflex products, but it crashes frequently. Also hasn’t been updated in some time, doesn’t even naturally fit to my iPhone screen (and my phone is 2yo).

### 2/5 — Bowflex tracking?

*2021-01-31, version 2.1.0*

I have a bowflex blaze and I bought a dumbbell and barbell set. I was hoping to use this app for free weight exercise tracking along with my blaze. It would be nice if you created an app for people to track these types of workouts manually with the older bowflex machines that don’t require Bluetooth etc. I had to print out exercises for the blaze and an app that has exercises for older machines, a way to log them and track progress would be awesome.  Not sure why only new bowflex products get tracking apps. Deleting

### 3/5 — Needs a revamp

*2020-12-17, version 2.1.0*

Great app for home workout. However, I started the 6 week workout, had no idea it was every other day. Needs more overview info. 
As for the workouts, they’re good, but during the rest time between exercises instead of a countdown timer, how about adding the video of the upcoming exercise explaining how to do it. If you click the info button next to it before starting the daily workout you get an explanation, but it would make more sense for that to be shown while resting and adjusting weights. 
As stated it’s a good up but there seem to be common sense updates that should’ve been thought of by now.

### 4/5 — Great Start

*2020-12-09, version 2.1.0*

Love the app, the workouts, videos, and journal. I only wish that since this is the SelectTech app that it also allowed videos, workouts, etc. for the barbell as well as the dumbbell. Overall though still solidly happy.

### 4/5 — Awesome app

*2020-09-30, version 2.1.0*

Great app to get yourself back to working out (or starting). I do wish there were more preloaded rotating exercise routines similar to the 6 week challenge but based on your fitness level/goals. That’s my only complaint. Otherwise it’s an awesome app & I’m not sure why the ratings are so low. Could it use some updates/more features? Yes, but..you can also make up your own routines from lots of specific workouts they provide (granted I haven’t done this quite yet).

### 3/5 — Solid app, needs a cloud save feature

*2020-06-03, version 2.1.0*

For the most part, this is a very solid app. The Bluetooth connection happens almost instantly with the dumbbells. The 6 week challenge is a good starting point and the addition of targeted workouts is great. I have one issue however and that is the lack of a cloud saving feature. The SelectTech stand comes with a tablet holder and I use that to display my workouts as I’m going through them so it’s on a larger screen while also using my phone on breaks if necessary. The problem with this is that the Apple health app is not available on iPads so you cannot sync the workout. Your only choices are to not sync to Apple health or not use a tablet which clearly by the stand’s own design it expects you to use. 

I’m assuming all the workout data is stored on a local database on the device itself which kinda stinks. This means if you get a new device or uninstall the app for whatever reason, you will lose all progress. I understand this is not a trivial feature, but a simple login with cloud storage would greatly benefit this app. Otherwise, maybe an import/export utility could work to send data to a phone to sync with health? 

Overall that’s my only gripe. App runs well and the content is very solid.

### 4/5 — I really like this AP but....

*2020-04-04, version 2.1.0*

I really like this ap but I wish they would fix or offer the following adjustments:
1) ceiling height limitation toggle:  not everyone has the benefit of a huge gymnasium, working out in my 7’ tall ceiling basement doesn’t allow me to do jumping burpees etc.  simply have a toggle to exchange exercises needing higher ceilings
2) the AP crashes allot.  Going back and forth shouldn’t cause it to crash so much. 
3) allow me to fast forward a rest period but still give me a 3-5 second notice
4) I’ve forgotten to hit “done” button before and would like the ability to skip a day if possible.

### 3/5 — Almost there . . . so close!

*2020-03-30, version 2.1.0*

Can we at least migrate all the exercises listed in the physical manual over to the app, so I can include them in my custom workout? If not, at least give us the opportunity to insert a custom exercise? For example, “Preacher” or “Concentrated Curls” on the Bowflex Bench?

Also, it would be great to have the power to edit the titles of our workouts after we’ve created them. 

Otherwise, this app is a fantastic start!

### 2/5 — Lots of potential, but lacks some basics

*2020-03-27, version 2.1.0*

1. The list of available exercises is not very comprehensive. I would like to be able to add my own custom exercises (e.g. Chinese Dumbbell Rows), name them whatever I want, and make workouts out of them.
2. When using “Just Lift”, there is no easy way to name my exercises during the lift. I have to complete my workout, edit the workout, try remember what exercises I did, and enter it into the workout log.

### 2/5 — This app needs work

*2020-02-27, version 2.1.0*

I use this on an iPhone and with the SelectTech 560’s.  In summary, the app is sporadic in counting reps.  There have been numerous times where I’ve been halfway through a set and the app stops and asks if I want to continue or cancel.  I don’t see any option to add music.  There are no sound indicators for the timer when, for instance, doing warmup or abs.  You can’t even manually add reps when the app isn’t counting, as I have tried since I stopped trying to correct the app midway through a set.  Firs time this happened I tried to add reps/sets after I completed the session but could not.  Seriously as much as these weights cost one would think the app would be more stable then it is.

### 4/5 — Good App

*2020-02-26, version 2.1.0*

I use Model 552. The App is great. I like the fact that I can creat my own workouts but I would like to make a couple of suggestions:

First, the App at present allows you to create your own workouts but not your own 6 week challenge or any other challenge for that matter. I find this very limiting as users should be able to create their own challenges.
Secondly, the App does not synchronize across devices. For example, if I start the challenge on my iPhone and then switch to my iPad, the data from the challenge on my iPhone does not appear on my iPad and I would have to start the challenge all over again. Can you find a way to link accounts across devices?

These two changes would earn a 5 star rating from me.

Andrew R

### 3/5 — Exercises.

*2020-02-15, version 2.1.0*

I’m enjoying these select tech dumbells so far after about three weeks with them.  I’ve been doing my own workouts but following your rep system after tweaking it a bit.  The only thing i end up scratching my head about is your squat exercise says one thing but the video does another.  Not sure how many other exercises you have on here that are wrong.  But maybe you might want to do a double discount check and make them right.

### 4/5 — Re-Review

*2020-02-12, version 2.1.0*

I really like the addition of the last weight used text that is now displayed on the header during workouts. Can we also get text that tracks previous reps attempted? 

Finally, can you add apple watch heart rate tracking compatibility?

Really close to being a perfect app for Bowflex select tech owners

## Most critical reviews (10 lowest-rated)

### 1/5 — App being retired - now I have to pay again to use the functionality I already purchased

*2022-01-10, version 2.2.0*

I bought these smart dumbbells for the smart function, and paid a significant premium for that function just a few years ago.  Now that smart feature is being turned off, and I have to pay $149 a year for it?  No more bowflex/nautilus products for me in the future.  Yes I get there is a free trial we’re granted for the new JRNY app that lasts a year and requires a credit card - no thanks I just want the original functionality I paid for without getting trapped into a subscription

### 1/5 — Can’t continue a workout or go backwards

*2021-11-09, version 2.1.0*

I started the 6 week challenge today and skipped forward to see how to do a certain exercise and it wouldn’t let me go back to that exercise so I stopped the workout and it wouldn’t let me back in. Now i have to redownload the app and re enter all my data. Found so many flaws with this app and I’ve used it for a half an hour

### 1/5 — Crash crash crash

*2021-07-29, version 2.1.0*

App crashes constantly. Data loss. Working out motivation is hard to come by for most people. Doubly so when the assistive technology that pairs with $800 dumbbells doesn’t work.  Get it together nautilus. 
Bowflex used to be the last work in home gym equipment. Now they’re the first name in on sale terrible equipment and only in my home gym because of massive discounts. But trust me when I say it’s still not worth it. 
They’re trying to mimic iFit or Peloton but the equipment is mostly subpar. The digital trainer can’t even change treadmill settings, but they are asking $20 for videos which are free on You Tube.

### 1/5 — So poor, so sad

*2021-05-04, version 2.1.0*

Wow, downloaded recently and the app always crashes. You would think for the amount they charge for their products they would have enough money to pay for some competent developers. They could go head to head with Peloton but clearly their Product team lacks that foresight. So disappointed.

### 1/5 — Please bring the app into 2021

*2021-02-09, version 2.1.0*

Way overdue for an update

1) App won’t sync with Apple Watch or polar beat for heart rate.  Even if it did, the data doesn’t flow over to Apple health or fitness app. 
2) The only value is the 6 week challenge. While waiting for the countdown timer between intervals or exercises, please play the video of the exercise so users are ready to go when the time starts. Too much time wasted pausing and restarting each exercise. 
3) No iPad app? The dumbbell rack has a media stand specifically for an iPad, it’s even pictured on the box.

### 1/5 — Disappointed

*2020-12-24, version 2.1.0*

Like some other reviewers have pointed out, If you’re not a seasoned weight lifter (I am not), the only helpful routine they have on this app is the 6 Week Challenge. I realize there are 3rd party apps that I can use, but this is a real limitation to this app.  Also, why is there no iPad version? Your dumbbell rack has a media stand that is obviously for an iPad.....on your site, it even features an iPad using this app, but there is no actual iPad version on the App Store. I have an iPhone 11 Pro Max and the app doesn’t even fill up the screen, it functions fine but it seems very unpolished.

### 1/5 — 0 stars, app is trash, dumbbells are good

*2020-10-22, version 2.1.0*

The app is trash. You can’t open a music app in the middle of a workout to fix a song. You can’t view the workout videos without the app crashing, have tried many times but it crashes every single time. The 6 week workout is a good workout but you can’t focus because the app will miss reps, stop workouts, not user friendly at all. 

The dumbbells are good for an at home workout but no point in getting the Bluetooth ones because the app is absolutely garbage. I can’t even rate it 0 stars....

### 1/5 — Terrible

*2020-02-05, version 2.1.0*

This app is just terrible.  If I pause to reset my grip or just to catch breath during a set it just stops and moves to the rest period between sets and then to the next set.   It has no iPad app just phone.  It also only remembers the last weight you use. So if your doing sets where you progress in weight it’s only going to remember the last weight used and not the last weight for each set of the circuit.   You still end up tracking your workout on pen and paper.   I regret buying the 560 dumbbells.

### 1/5 — App is lacking

*2019-04-22, version 2.1.0*

Overall this app is a bare-bones tracking app for your exercises. The biggest flaw with this app is that it makes no sounds, which means when you’re lying on your bench you have to either guess what is telling you or how many reps you have left, unless you’re watching the tiny little sensor window on the dumbbell itself. And for those exercises that you don’t use the dumbbells for, there’s no way of knowing when the exercise starts or ends because no sounds are made. The Bluetooth is finicky in the sense that it doesn’t always register your reps correctly, can you definitely have to wait for the beeps to start your exercise.

**Developer response:** Helly avsratings, thank you for being a customer and for your review! We're happy to go over everything and ensure that both the app and your 560s are functioning properly. In this regard, please give us a call at 800-605-3369, Monday through Friday, 6 AM to 5 PM Pacific.

Regarding feedback and suggestions, we do appreciate them. If you have any ideas or feature requests, please feel free to launch the app, navigate to the app Settings, and then use "Send us an email".  These messages go directly to our App Team and we record and track requests in order to make future improvements to our apps and services.

Thanks again and good luck on your fitness journey! - Bowflex Team

### 1/5 — Agree with “Disappointed” Review

*2019-02-08, version 2.1.0*

There is an expectation that more than a 6 week challenge would accompany a “supposedly” mature product.  The developer response simple tells they are not putting the resources needed to improve this app.  

Easy ways to improve:

Add more than 1 program beyond the 6 week challenge?  

I notice you can only preview the exercise prior to starting each day, but once you are doing the challenge you cannot preview the exercise.

I notice when it come to certain exercises they do not correctly alternate to get both side, so you have to be aware and modify it yourself on the fly. Videos should also match.

The weights are Great, the app falls short and disappointing the lack of speed in improvement, forcing to seeking other apps.

## Most praised reviews (10 highest-rated)

### 5/5 — Please don’t retire

*2023-06-16*

Please don’t retire this app. Yes it may have a few bugs here and there, but the simplicity alone is worth it. Compared to other apps this is still in my top 2 apps I use on a regular basis. I don’t use it to connect to anything nor do I need to. I enjoy logging my information the old school way. Obviously not everyone likes that, and that’s understandable. I have learned that there is a balance to an app being great and not. Sometimes to much is just to much. This one is still great. Please keep it alive.

### 5/5 — Love this app

*2022-06-25, version 2.2.0*

I love the exercises and the timer. The fact that it Keeps track of the weight you last used for the exercise is awesome!!
JRNY is a joke compared to this app! Who wants some one yelling in your ear for the entire work out and not have an out line of the exercises or how much time for each.

### 5/5 — Great workouts, much better than JRNY app

*2021-12-20, version 2.2.0*

Though the app may have quirks, it provides a great, customizable workout with routines you can build.  So sad JRNY is replacing this.  As a user of both, JRNY is “slicker” but this one is more functional.  Almost no ability to customize with JRNY focused on recorded instructors talking at you with recorded routines, no adaptability.  So, enjoy SelectTech while you can, JRNY is just a wannabe peloton.

### 5/5 — Great app highly recommended

*2019-08-01, version 2.1.0*

The workout video is awesome, but I had little issues setting app to sync the data to health app.  Customer support is great and able to resolve my issues.  Well, not totally yet because I have to wait for the next challenge to get the calories to sync to active energy health app.  It was my bad because I didn’t enter all the information needed.  I will keep this updated in couple of days and sees what happens next.  Great app!

8/1 apps works great!  Pls add voice and heart rate and it will be perfect!

**Developer response:** Thanks for being a customer, for your review, and the update PakElms! We're sorry to hear about any difficulty and glad to hear things have been straightened out.

Thanks for the requests and ideas as well.  We do appreciate them! If you have any others, please feel free to send them on.  If you have any suggestions, you can send them directly from within the app by navigating to the Settings and then using the "Send us an email" option.

Good luck on your fitness journey! - Bowflex Team

### 5/5 — Great app!

*2018-12-01, version 2.1.0*

Wow! Been using SelectTech for 12 years. Have used the paper 6 week challenge from time to time which was cool but this app is just awesome! It has videos to demonstrate moves which is great when you’re just starting out or rusty. It’s great that you can create your own routines also.

### 5/5 — The App is Back n Kickin’ ✊

*2018-06-12, version 2.1.0*

The app just received a nice update. Can finally listen to tunes while you workout.  Nice job team Bowflex. Your efforts to freshen up the app are much appreciated.

### 4/5 — Almost great

*2022-12-28, version 2.2.0*

This app is very useful when I workout.  However, the app crashes everytime I get a call on my cellphone and I have to restart the whole workout. To make this app a 5 star for me is to get the bug fixed or pause the session I left off at without having to redo the whole workout again

### 4/5 — Great workout app for the Bowflex dumbbells

*2022-07-21, version 2.2.0*

I love this app. I started off with the 6-week challenge when I got my new Bowflex 552 adjustable dumbbells. Finished that, and now I just do “Choose a Workout” and work on back, chest, shoulders, etc. 

If I had any suggestion for improvement, it would be to have an option to see a preview video (instead of just a still image) of the workout they’re about to do before the workout timer starts so the user can estimate how much weight they think they’ll be able to lift for that particular exercise. 

Also, not sure if anyone else has this issue, but I use the app on my phone (as opposed to an iPad), and if I happen to get a call in the middle of a workout, it causes the app to crash and I lose all progress for my entire session.  Quite annoying. I have to put the phone in “Do not disturb” mode so no calls come through. 

These are small things though and overall I really like the app and it complements the Bowflex 552 adjustable dumbbells nicely.

### 4/5 — Very good app but….

*2021-07-07, version 2.1.0*

Very good app but needs a backup feature, whether local or cloud.  Also, it would be nice to view previous six week challenge if choose to start another six week challenge

### 4/5 — Good app, but could be better

*2021-02-11, version 2.1.0*

I use this app most days for workouts with my dumbbells. I think the Bowflex app developers are missing a great opportunity to sell more equipment by integrating their newer SelectTech gear (kettle bells, curl bar, etc.) into the app. I would buy the curl bar if they did that. You should be able to select which gear you have (including the bench) to filter which exercises you can do. They should also allow for more “no equipment” options, to allow people to add in pull ups, crunches, etc. Finally, they should make it integrate better with the Apple Move Ring, so calories are captured and count toward Move Ring completion.

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-06-10.*
