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Bowflex TreadClimber: The Right Exercise Equipment for You?
Posted on Dec 11th 2009 5:15PM by Bev SklarEver catch yourself immersed in a Bowflex infomercial? Before you know it you're pulling out your credit card in hopes of getting the world's most defined abs. But Bowflex offers more than just weights, they sell cardio machines, too. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of one of their cardio specials -- the Bowflex TreadClimber.
Bowflex inventor Gary Piaget claims the TreadClimber can cut your exercise time in half because the TreadClimber works as a treadmill, stairclimber and elliptical all in one. The manufacturers claim this machine's dual-motion treadle system engages more major muscle groups, which they allege means a larger calorie burn than working out on a typical treadmill at similar speeds. In treadmill mode, the treadles work in unison. In stairclimber mode, they act independently. And the up and down motion of those treadles means less impact on the joints, according to the makers of Bowflex.
Still, treadmill review sites have varying opinions. Bowflex sells four TreadClimber models starting with the entry-level TC1000 ($1,499) up to the TC5500 ($3,299). Treadmill Doctor gives the TC1000 a 5.16 out of 10. Users report the hydraulic shocks are prone to giving out and other testimonial complaints attribute poor reliability to a complicated design with many moving parts. Treadmill Adviser recommends the TC1000, but the machine's maximum user weight is 275 pounds.
If the mix of hot and cold Internet reviews of the Bowflex TreadClimber leave you feeling lukewarm, consider these at-home gym products.
Bowflex inventor Gary Piaget claims the TreadClimber can cut your exercise time in half because the TreadClimber works as a treadmill, stairclimber and elliptical all in one. The manufacturers claim this machine's dual-motion treadle system engages more major muscle groups, which they allege means a larger calorie burn than working out on a typical treadmill at similar speeds. In treadmill mode, the treadles work in unison. In stairclimber mode, they act independently. And the up and down motion of those treadles means less impact on the joints, according to the makers of Bowflex.
Still, treadmill review sites have varying opinions. Bowflex sells four TreadClimber models starting with the entry-level TC1000 ($1,499) up to the TC5500 ($3,299). Treadmill Doctor gives the TC1000 a 5.16 out of 10. Users report the hydraulic shocks are prone to giving out and other testimonial complaints attribute poor reliability to a complicated design with many moving parts. Treadmill Adviser recommends the TC1000, but the machine's maximum user weight is 275 pounds.
If the mix of hot and cold Internet reviews of the Bowflex TreadClimber leave you feeling lukewarm, consider these at-home gym products.
