Soloflex, Bowflex, home gyms......
 

I have not lifted weights in about 2 years because of my back (ruptured disk). But I have been doing physical therapy, and my back is stable and strong at this point.

I have always lifted free weights, but I think this would be to much preasure on my back. I would like something a little more controlled that I can ease into. More to the point, I don't care about gaining bulk, just strength.

Anyone have experiences with some of the 'compact' home gyms like Soloflex, Bowflex, etc.....?

I had a Soloflex 15 years ago. It was OK but didn't feel natural and smooth. I bulked up my shoulders pretty good though doing their version of the military press.

I have a unit similar to the Bowflex now called the Weider Crossbow. It's way cheaper and probably works just as well. Look at eBay or Craigslist as I'm sure there are many folks, like myself, selling theirs. I posted here about how I love the machine but I miss the extra motivation that a gym gives you. The Crossbow is smooth and verstile but somewhat lacking in lower body exercises. Very easy to switch from one movement to another though. If you do not want to bulk up, go with the Bow or the Cross, IMO.

I have a Bowflex Ultimate and use it almost daily. Great machine. It pretty much does whatever you need. I supplement some exercises with dumbells, but overall it's very good. I suspect the "weight" that is indicates that you're using is somewhat off as I am doing sets of 10 with everything it's got (310lbs) on bench press and it's not *that* hard.

I used free weights for years (almost decades) so I've BTDT, too. The Bowflex ain't that bad...

Mike