BowFlex TreadClimber TC5 Review

   About Fred Waters

What the Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 has going for it is of course the unique design concept found on all TreadClimbers, but also the budget price.  They refer to it as their "no frills approach to cardio exercise".  You also get a very compact exercise machine.

The concept behind all three of the TreadClimber models is the low-impact cardio workout.  Rather than utilizing one flat deck, you have "dual motion treadle system". These treadles move up and down with the motion of your footsteps. They meet your feet, thus reducing the impact.  It is like having a treadmill and stairclimber hybrid. 

Note: The BowFlex TreadClimber TC 5 typically sells for $999. Below are the current incentives on the BowFlexTreadclimbers for the month of March: 

• Free Shipping and Free Machine Mat!
• Save $100 when you spend over $500.
• Financing is also Available!

The Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 is primarily a walking machine, it is not designed for running.  The maximum speed is 4.5 mph.  However, you can still get a very intense workout without the stress and strain of running or the reverse motion of a stairclimber. 

Motorless Operation

The one feature, or lack of feature, you need to be aware of is the fact that the Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 is a motorless machine.  That means your motion is what drives the belts on the treadles.  If you have ever used a motorless treadmill after working out on a motorized treadmill, you will notice a considerable difference.  In fact, there are numerous motorless treadmills on the market, but they are usually the dirt cheap models that sell for a couple of hundred dollars or less.  Consequently, I have some reluctance recommending the TreadClimber TC5 since it is sold direct and there are no retail locations where you can test the machine for yourself.  

So you are getting the patented Bowflex TreadClimber low impact technology at a bargain price minus a motor driving the belts on the dual treadles.  Obviously, it takes some effort to get the belt to move. This is a new model and it will be interesting to see if people are willing to sacrifice a motor driven machine for the low price. 

The console is very basic and there are no installed workout programs.  In my case that is no big deal since I never use them.  The Bowflex TreadClimber TC5  weighs 163 lbs., and considering the square shape floor design, it is reasonably stable.

You get a 1-year warranty that covers parts and labor.  Many treadmills in this price range offer a 1-year labor and 3-year parts warranty.

Our Review - Bowflex TreadClimber TC5

At least for now I am going to hold back my endorsement of the TreadClimber TC5.  The price is attractive, but the lack of a motor is what I consider a major drawback.  For $999 you can get a very decent treadmill with a motor, and you can adjust the incline on most to at least 12%, giving you a very intense cardio workout. 

Previously Bowflex version of the TreadClimber starting at $1,300, but they dropped that model and now to get a motorized version you have to spend over $2,000.  I'm confused with this new marketing strategy. 

Also See:

BowFlex Motorized TreadmillClimber TC10 Review