BowFlex TreadClimber TC20 Review

  About Fred Waters

The BowFlex TreadClimber TC20 is their top of the line model.  In addition, to being slightly bigger and heavier, it comes with upgraded programming that is designed to assist you in achieving your fitness goals.  For those who are unfamiliar with the TreadClimber concept, they are designed to be a hybrid between a treadmill, stair stepper and elliptical trainer.  The company claims that their patented designed allows you to get a low impact workout that is more efficient.  There definitely is some basis to those claims.

Note: The BowFlex TreadClimber TC20 typically sells for $3,299.

Current incentive: $300 Off, Free Exercise Equipment Mat, and Free Shipping— Financing is also Available!

The BowFlex TreadClimber TC20 is designed with dual "treadles".  They are like mini treadmill belts for both feet.  As you walk the "treadles" move up and down to meet you feet, thus avoiding much of the impact that comes from working out on a treadmill. The TreadClimber is primarily designed for walking and is impractical for running.  However, the design provides you with a workout that can be equivalent to the intensity of running. 

If you visit the web site or have watched their infomercials, BowFlex claims their TreadClimbers are almost 4x more efficient in burning calories in comparison to a treadmill, however, the comparison is based at walking at 3 mph with the treadmill at a zero incline.  Obviously, if you crank up the incline of a treadmill you will burn considerably more calories. Still, the BowFlex TreadClimber TC20 probably will burn more calories with a lesser perceived rate of exertion based on the design.  And there is definitely less impact in comparison to a treadmill.

G.O. Coach Technology...

Many cardio equipment companies are getting into equipping their machines with motivational technology.  On the TC20 you get the G.O. Coach Technology.  In a nutshell...

• The G.O. Coach™ Console is an interactive program that interacts with the user to establish goals, monitor progress and compare results
• Personalize your workout with customizable goal-oriented programming
• G.O. Coach™ technology delivers customized programming for two users and goal progress displays
• 3 Landmark Challenges to keep you energized just like being monitored by a personal trainer
• Set, monitor, and track personal fitness goals – and improvements

TreadmillClimber TC20 Features...

• Three year warranty coverage in comparison to two years on the TC10
• Longer foot "Treadles" allowing you to position your feet where they are most comfortable.
• 4.5 MPH max speed.
• Compact Design - The width is only 55". 
• Wireless heart rate monitor, allowing you to optimize your workout based on your heart rate.  This is a technique used by professional athletes. 
• Store and track two user stats.
• 217 lb unit weight, giving the machine a solid and stable feel.

Our Review — Bowflex TreadClimber TC20

The Bowflex TC20 offers the low impact and efficient workout of the TreadClimbers, in addition, it is equipped with programming to motivate you to reach your fitness goals and to track your progress.  The one major consideration is the price.  At approximately $3,300 you may want to consider the alternatives, including ellipticals and treadmills that are rated as light institutional quality.

In particular, elliptical trainers will offer you a similar low impact workout, since your feet never leave the pedals and you move in an elliptical motion.  There is no reverse motion, so there is minimal stress and strain to your joints. (See Elliptical Trainer Reviews)   

Regarding the efficiency of the exercise of the TreadClimber and how that compares to other cardio machines.  Obviously, the most efficient machine is the one you are going to use.  If you suffer from the impact of a treadmill, and you are not comfortable with an elliptical, then the Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 may be the solution. The uphill walking motion of the TreadClimbers will definitely burn calories if you push yourself.

Also See:

BowFlex TreadmillClimber TC10 Review