Bowflex Treadclimber – Hybrid Workout Equipment for Your Home

There are hybrid cars that help save the environment, so why not embrace hybrid workout equipment that can help save your body? The Bowflex Treadclimber is part of a modern movement to create hybrid workout machines that combine the best features of multiple machines. In particular, Bowflex Treadclimbers are a hybrid of the treadmill and the stair stepper.

Treadmills are effective for cardiovascular workouts. You can walk or run on them, and some people walk sideways and backwards on them as well. They get your heart rate up and keep it there throughout your workout, and they can simulate hills for even more effective training if you purchase one with electronic incline. The Bowflex Treadclimber is not made for running, but it definitely delivers the cardiovascular benefits of taking a brisk walk on a treadmill.

Stair steppers are also effective to get your heart rate up for cardiovascular training, but they offer some toning benefits as well. You have felt the pressure and burning in your glutes, thighs, hamstrings, and calves when you walk up a tall flight of stairs, right? Those who run or walk stairs on a regular basis often have very toned, muscular legs and they typically have low body fat.

This is why football players and many other athletes incorporate bleacher runs into their training routines. It is excellent for toning and fat burning. A stair stepper mimics this motion for the same benefits in a stationary, indoor environment.

When you take those benefits of the treadmill and the stair climber together, you have the Bowflex Treadclimber. The hybrid design has treads similar to what you find on a treadmill, but the tread is split over two pedals rather than moving around a single platform. The pedals are close together, and they move up and down as well as moving forward like a treadmill belt.

Bowflex Treadclimber Models

There are three different Bowflex Treadclimber models on the market right now:

• TC5
• TC10
• TC20

The Bowflex TC5 is known as the “green” model, since it doesn’t use electric power to operate. It is designed to be extremely compact and independent of wires and plugs, so you can put it literally anywhere in your home with a bit of extra space. It is also boasts the lowest price of all Bowflex treaclimbers.

If you want something with electrical power, then the Bowflex TC10 Treadclimber will be the most economical option. It is designed with a programmable console with coaching technology that allows you to set and work toward weekly goals. This model is more like the modern treadmills and stair steppers we are used to using, but it is still rather basic in terms of features.

The most impressive  Treadclimber is the Bowflex TC20. This model has all of the features offered on the TC10 model, but it comes with some modern enhancements:

• Longer treadle designed to maximize walking comfort
• Built-in heart rate monitor
• Enhanced preprogrammed challenges

Another thing to keep in mind is the warranty offered with each of these Treadclimbers. The TC5 comes with a single year warranty. The TC10 comes with a two year warranty. The TC20 comes with a three year warranty. This is not comparable to the lifetime warranties that now come on some of the best treadmills, but it does give you protection against defective parts or parts that stop functioning in an unreasonable period of time.

The TC20 is substantially larger than the other two Bowflex Treadclimbers, so you will need to clear more space for it in your home or home gym. It may be worth devoting the space if you need the extra features or just want to take advantage of the longer warranty.

If you have health and fitness goals that you are determined to meet, why not go with a hybrid machine? You get all the benefits of walking on a treadmill and climbing stairs, but you don’t have to invest in two machines. You don’t have to give up your time working two machines, either!

Be sure to read the individual reviews of each Treadclimber model on this website before chosing the Bowflex Treadclimber that’s right for you.