Bowflex Treadclimber TC20 Review

In the collection with the TC5, TC10, TC3000 and TC5000, the Bowflex Treadclimber TC20 is the top top-of-the-line model provided by Bowflex. It is one of the most versatile treadclimbers available with a great combination of treadmill, elliptical and stair climber. Let read and discover how this works to brings great benefits to users.

Bowflex Treadclimber TC20 Description

Speed

It offers a nice speed range from 0.5 to 4.MPH. This is ideal for individuals that have undergone accidents and require low impact exercise. And these speeds are only suitable for walking. So if you are runners, it is better to purchase a treadmill for running like NORDICTRACK C990 or LIFESPAN TR5500I with much higher top speeds instead of purchasing the treadclimber.

Incline

This model offer a 40% incline feature which can help to double the rate of fat burn. This special feature can be found on Nordic Track’s incline trainers. Besides, incline training also lets walker get fast fitness results like runner without putting too much stress on their joints.

Foot treadles

Bowflex offers upgraded foot treadles in this model compared to other older models in its class. They are seems to be longer as well as more comfortable with a maximum incline of 40 degrees that makes it a greater option for taller users. The Treadle range of motion is adjusted by using a dial at the top of Hydraulic Workout Cylinder.

Workouts

The TC20 is loaded with 2 types of workouts: Interval and Steady State. The interval training workouts relate to adjusting user’s speed slower and faster for specific lengths of time to lower and raise their calorie burn, breathing rate and heart rate. And the steady state workout relates to slowly increasing user’s workout speed to a comfortable and challenging speed.

Console display

The console display of the TC20 has some noticeable improvements with a smooth and sleek design. Its fully backlit LCD display provides feedback on speed, time, distance, calories burned and heart rate. Additionally, the console includes a G.O. Coach weekly progress display. A single backlit screen used to display the stats instead of multiple screens with no backlight on the TC10 makes the information easier to read in low light conditions as well as creates room for two accessory trays where you can put your smartphone, MP3 player, water bottles, etc.

G.O. Coach (Goal-Oriented) Technology

This is a new type of technology integrated into this machine. The technology allows users to set, customize personal goals as well as monitor progress. Plus, it also allows the user to compare their results of new workouts to the results of previous workouts. Especially, this is as coach or personal trainer that will help you past minimal goals. It provides a goal oriented workout with the goal to climb the three landmark structures- a building, a tower and a mountain.

Heart rate monitor

It features a wireless chest strap but no heart rate touch sensors integrated into the handles. You need to wear the chest strap to transmit your pulse reading to the console. This helps you work out within an ideal heart rate zone.

Dimensions and weight

It measures (W x H x L) 31.5 x 55.25 x 55 – inches and weighs 217 lbs. this weight is rather heavy if you don’t have anyone available to assist you move it.

Comfort

Additionally, the 3-in-1 machine certainly provides a lower impact workout on joints than my old treadmills could do. It is due to the Hydraulic Workout Cylinder which works as a cushioning system. This system not only provides comfortable strides but also protects user’s joints, hips or lower back from impact of movements. Plus, I feel very satisfied with the foot treadles on the TC20. They are long and comfortable enough for my feet and even taller users. However, the TreadClimber TC20 doesn’t include any the iPod/MP3 connectivity that you often see on a traditional treadmill or elliptical. If these entertainment options are important to you, then I would like to recommend NordicTrack’s Commercial line of treadmills, or their Elite series of ellipticals.

Support

This 3-in-1 machine not only has multiple functionalities but also is very stable and challenging. Perhaps because of fear, lack of confidence I sometimes set my goals too low. But the G.O. Coach (Goal-Oriented) Technology with 3 challenges has pushed me to maximize my potential. As I mentioned above, thanks to a great combination of treadmill, elliptical and stair climber you will have chance to enjoy different movements or let you change your workouts just with this treadclimber. In other words, it is less tedious or gives you more motivation to walk for longer time although you won’t get any extra motivation coming from iPods or stereo. Besides, the Hydraulic Workout Cylinder also allows me to set the intensity of my workouts with up to a 40% incline and12 levels of resistance.

Convenience

This machine comes with a compact design combined with transport wheels so it can be moved around easily and fits well in even small rooms. A greatly convenient feature of the machine is its LCD center console, which allows me to track my speed, time, distance, calories burned and heart rate even in low light conditions. Additionally, it can store and track workout information of two users instead of only one user on cheaper models. That makes it more suitable for large families. Especially, this treadclimber is equipped with a wireless chest strap. The feature is a big pro for those who want to work out with free hands but not affecting the quick and accurate readouts. Another convenient feature is two accessory trays included where I can store my water bottles or smart phone. However, inconveniently, you have to step off the machine to make adjustments during your workout.

Performance

While many customers are flabbergasted by the price of this product, taking a better look at its versatility, features and efficiency will make you change your thought about it. Although it is made for only walking, with the combined motions of an elliptical, treadmill and stepper it provides me with even more effective workouts than when running on my treadmills. The machine is advertised to be able to help users burn 3.5 times the amount of calories than working out on the cardio treadmills at the same speed if used right. This is really a good new for those who are dealing with weight problems like me. The motion of the machine is not difficult to get used to. Even my 72 year-old mother can also use it on low speeds. However, the TC20 operates with a little noise. In order to solve this issue I added Appliance Anti-Walk pads under the legs in the both front and back and they have been effective.

Quality and durability

Frame is built with great quality material that is able to withstand users weighing up to 300 lbs. The machine also comes with 3-year warranty on the entire machine that is a longer warranty than other products in the same class. In order to last its durability, the TC20 requires a maintenance routine which is quite more complex than standard treadmills. In other words, you have to lubricate the treadles occasionally. Some users purchase a silicone treadmill belt lubricant or a lubrication kit for performing maintenance.

Use

Again, I want to highlight that if you wants to run at high speeds inside your home, this wouldn’t be a good option for you since the top speed of tread belts is only 4.5 MPH. However, if you are more interested in cardio fitness, weight-loss and overall lower body sculpting, this is indeed an effective exercise machine that should be present at your home. In the terms of dimensions, Bowflex recommend the TC20 for walkers who are 6 feet or taller of all ages. When it comes to the price, I only suggest this for people who really want to make a great investment for their home gym.

Conclusion, although the Bowflex Treadclimber TC20 has a little expensive price, there are lots of things to like. Indeed, it is a dynamic and sturdy machine that provides multi-functionality, efficiency, a great pack of a nice design and user-friendly features. In case you don’t want to spend too much money for a treadclimber, you can consider TC5 or TC10 that are older and cheaper models than the TC20 with the similar basic specs.

Compare Bowflex Treadclimber TC20 to other models

The Bowflex treadclimber TC10

The TC20 is the upgraded version of the TC10 so it is more expensive as well as has more upgraded features also. Beside the basic features of the TC10 like 40% incline, 300 lbs weight capacity the Bowflex Treadclimber TC20 has higher speed range, a longer walking surface, a wider range of target setting workout programs and it can store 2 user profiles while the TC10 can only store one.

Additionally, this model is provided with longer warranty. Another better feature of the TC20 is that it has a built-in heart rate monitor which is not included in the TC10. Both these models are not designed with entertainment options. However, when it comes with the weight, the TC20 is heavier so it is more difficult for users to move it around without the assist of others.

Bowflex TC200 Tread Climber Treadmill

Bowflex TC200 Tread Climber Treadmill is the newer model of the TC20 so there are also some new improvements. In addition to the similar basic specs, the first highlight feature of this model compared to the TC20 is its console display. It has a more spacious design overall, additional user profiles, two large cup holders, and a sleek, modern look. The fully back lit LCD display is now equipped with Bluetooth connectivity.

Especially, you can power your favorite smart devices with the integrated dual-purpose USB port. Another better feature is that the TC200 can store and track up to 4 user profiles instead of only 2 on the TC20. However, according to user’s reviews, the TC20 seems to burn more calories than the TC200.