BowFlex TreadClimber TC1000

  About Fred Waters

The BowFlex TreadClimber TC 1000 is no longer available, go to www.BowFlex.com for the latest models!

The BowFlex TreadClimber is a hybrid machine that combines the benefits of a treadmill, elliptical trainer and stair climber. Unlike a treadmill and stair climber, you avoid the high impact that can cause injuries to your joints and your lower back. According to the promotions you can burn twice the calories in half the time of a treadmill. Probably an overexageration, but there are some real benefits.

All the TreadClimbers come with what appears to a be a generous guarantee. Use the machine for up to 6 weeks and if you are not satisfied with the results, it can be returned. You will get a full refund. But here is the catch, minus shipping and handling charges. That can add up to hundreds of dollars.

The BowFlex TC1000 is the entry model of the TreadClimber lineup. The price is equivalent to that of a midrange treadmill or elliptical trainer.

The electronics on the TreadClimber TC1000 includes 12 intensity settings giving a wide range of workouts that accommodate both beginners and elite athletes. Other features include:

• 12 intensity settings and hydraulic resistance
• Maximum 45 degree climbing angle
• Speed adjusts from 0.5 to 3.8 mph
• Three electronic functions to track speed, time and distance at a glance
  

Overall the electronics on the TC1000 are rather basic and the console is rather cheap looking. Particularly for a $1,500 machine. It is designed with three small LCD readout windows. A comparably priced treadmill offers better readouts, and larger windows.

Our Review - BowFlex TreadClimber TC1000

We have one concern with the BowFlex TC1000 TreadClimber. The complexity of the moving parts and the limited one year warranty on all parts. It is a bit more complex then a treadmill or elliptical trainer. If you are serious about buying this machine we recommend that you purchase the extended warranty. The warranty does consist of service for that entire year.

Reviews we read on Epinions.com on the TreadClimber varied from one review suggesting that it was a quality built machine, but overpriced. They claim for the money it was lacking features. The other review suggested it was worth every penny and that they got tremendous results within six weeks. Of course if you go to the Nautilus site you will read endless review of miraculous results.

We encourage our readers to get beyond the hype and realize that the best exercise machine is the one you use. Also be aware that this is not like any fitness equipment you have used in the past. Some people find the "Dual-Treadles" awkward, while other consider it an improvement over the high impact workout you receive from a treadmill.

That said, the BowFlex TC1000 is extremely popular, just like the BowFlex Strength Machine. In fact, it is one of the biggest selling cardio machines on the market. The reason - It offers a low-impact, high intensity cardio workout in a compact design.

Also See:

BowFlex TreadmillClimber TC5 Review
BowFlex TreadmillClimber TC10 Review