If you've ever channel-surfed right around New Year's time, chances are you've seen the famous Bowflex Treadclimber infomercials.
If you're like me you've wondered "What the heck is that thing? And does it really work or is it just hype?"
Surprisingly enough, while the Treadclimber does look a bit hype-y, it's actually been around for several years and continues to be quite popular. This is a testament to the fact that it falls more into the category of legitimate exercise machine than informercial hype.
It was originally released by Nautilus as the Nautilus Treadclimber (Nautilus owns both the Nautilus and Bowflex names).
However as Nautilus is more of a commercial equipment brand (think $3000+), the machine was rebranded the Bowflex Treadclimber several years back (which makes more sense as these machines start around $1299 and up).
What is the Treadclimber?
It's really a hybrid treadmill/stair climber.
Dual treadbelts (vs. one that you find on a treadmill) rise to meet your foot in a climbing/stair stepping type motion.
The treadbelts rise via hydraulics on either side of the belts.
If you've seen the informercial, you know how cool this looks. However be aware that it does require some work on your part. Because of the rising treadles, you're essentially walking on an incline - and incline walking burns a lot of calories very fast.
In fact you can burn up to 157% more calories on a Treadclimber than you would walking on a standard 0% incline treadmill.
This explains why the biggest selling feature of the Treadclimber is that you lose weight very fast - and get faster results in less time.
The whole point of buying fitness equipment for most people is that they want to shape up and slim down. So if you can do it faster with a Treadclimber, why not?
There are some things to be aware of however.
#1 You can't run on these machines. The maximum speed is about 4.0 to 4.5 MPH and the belts tend to be shorter than a standard treadmill belt - so they are not meant for runners.
#2 There are different models. The higher end models give you the most in terms of workout programs, console feedback and longer warranties.
Bottom Line:
The Treadclimber was specifically made to get you faster results in less time. However be aware that it is not a treadmill.
It's a very cool looking machine that you walk on in an upward incline motion. This burns more calories than a standard treadmill so you get faster results in less time.
There are drawbacks however like the fact that it is not meant for runners.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the latest Treadclimber models direct from the Manufacturer. Plus you can compare models and read the latest weight loss testimonials.
