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Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 Review

While at BlogHer 12 I spent a lot of time in the expo hall. It was wall to wall brands demonstrating some of their top of the line products. I was excited to see Bowflex there because I do my best to keep up on health & fitness and their Core Body Reformer caught my eye. I watched a demonstration, thought it looked like an incredible piece of equipment, and had them scan my badge to enter to win one.

Little did I know how life changing that simple motion would be.

After arriving home from BlogHer I settled back into my routine of blogging, errands, keeping up the house, and trying to fit in exercise when I could. One morning I opened up my email and immediately started jumping up and down and calling everyone I knew. I had won a TreadClimber TC20 from the Bowflex booth at BlogHer!

TreadClimber ReviewI did some research on the TreadClimber TC20 and learned that it’s an elliptical, stepper, and treadmill all in one. Thanks to the dual treadle system users can burn up to 3.5 times the amount of calories than on a treadmill at the same speed.

TreadClimber TC20The TreadClimber TC20 arrived in 4 enormous boxes. Thankfully only one was really heavy because the day it arrived it was raining. I was able to bring 3 of the boxes inside myself and only had to leave the heavy one outside under our awning to stay dry until Dave could get home to bring it in.

TreadClimberWe were really excited about the TreadClimber and once we finally opened up the boxes, Dave had it put together in one evening. I couldn’t wait to start using it.

It couldn’t have arrived at a better time. I’m a hermit in the winter and my workout routine falls apart once the temperature drops below 40. I hate being cold and lose my motivation to get bundled up to get out to the gym. But now the TreadClimber TC20 is here and I can workout whenever I want. I’m hoping using it this winter will keep up my fitness level and keep my blood flowing so I’m not as cold and inactive this winter.

The first time Dave and I used the TreadClimber TC20 we each couldn’t get over how we could get so sweaty walking at such a slow pace. Our first couple of times we used it we walked at 1.5-1.7 mph or so and we agreed we felt like we were walking in slow motion but after doing so for 20-30 minutes we had worked up a good sweat and felt it in our legs the next day.

TreadClimber ReviewAfter using it now for a couple of weeks, Dave is up to 2.5 mph for 20 minutes which is quite a workout. I’m around 2.0-2.2 for 30 minutes. On a regular treadmill I walk at 4 mph. The best way to describe this workout is to imagine if you were hiking uphill but on a smooth surface. We nicknamed it the “Trudge Climber” because it feels a bit like you are trudging uphill or through mud.

We were surprised to learn when it first arrived that we couldn’t run on it. It is made for walking only. After using it for these few weeks we understand why. Since the treadles down’t lie flat, they are always on an incline, running wouldn’t really be possible. That’s ok with us because walking on it is enough of a workout in itself and with the combined motions of a stepper and elliptical it allows you to burn more calories than you would on a traditional treadmill.

Here’s a video I made showing how it works. I apologize in advance for darkness in the video. Our basement doesn’t have the best lighting.

Now that we have the hang of it we were both intrigued by this Bowflex video which explains how to use it for interval workouts:

Dave enjoys interval training so he’s excited to give this a try. I may try it a couple of times but I prefer the steady workouts. Either way we are thrilled to have the TreadClimber TC20 and recommend it to anyone who is looking for a treadmill, stepper, or elliptical machine. This is truly a low impact, 3-in-1 machine, that offers an intense workout which burns calories and produces results.

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Comments

  1. Hi. I read your review and others online…I just found out I have degenerative discuss disease and arthritis in my back and have had arthritis in my knees for years now. My husband thinks this machine would be food for me as we know treadmills are good for my condition. I read that the pedals are spread out and would not be good for knees. I know it’s hard to recommend this machine if you don’t have the pain I do but I was wondering if you could imagine and maybe tell me if you would buy it. Treadmills are a lot cheaper and I’m afraid to spend thousands and not be able to use it. Thank you

  2. I am on my second tread climber – I am 48 years old. When I got the first one years ago, I figured how hard could it be? It’s just walking – not! I could barley do 10 minutes at 2 mph. Now, for the past three years (going into my fourth year now), I do one hour (+2 minutes) a day (3.8 mph for 30 minutes & 4.0 mph for 32 minutes – 4 miles) – six days a week – and I have only missed 6 days in 3 & 1/2 years. I think that I’ve maxed out – today I did 4.0 mph for the whole hour. I don’t know how people lose weight doing this only 3 days a week for 30 minutes each day, because I haven’t lost any in about 2 years (the first year, I probably lost about 24lbs) – but, maybe it keeps me from being huge. Either way, I’m afraid to stop & find out. Like I said, I killed the first tread climber – I replaced the pistons about 4 times and finally, had to get a new one. I’m not a gym person, so this works for me.

  3. The gym I belonged to in California had them in 2007, and I loved it. I put the speed up to 3.8 to 4 every time and used it for 20 – 40 minutes, afterwards I would be drenched in sweat. They described it as “walking in sand.” Unfortunately, they got a LOT of use and broke down so often that the gym ended up having to get rid of them. I think they broke down because of overuse, and not because of the quality of the machines. Great machine, and I would love to get one, if I could afford it.

  4. Hi, haven’t seen this question- how far apart would your feet be on the treadals? I use a treadmill with no problems. But elipticals seem to bother me, I think its because my feet have to be spread so far. I wish they had stores where you could take them for a spin :) Thanks so much, Cindy

    • Honestly, it’s like walking on a regular treadmill rather than an elliptical width wise. the two tracks touch so there is no big gap like on an elliptical. Hope that helps answer your questions and good luck!

  5. I just got myself a treadclimber as a retirement present to myself and I have been using it for about two weeks now. It does work up quite a sweat. I am pushing 50 and the workouts I did in my thirty’s are just not going to cut it now. Even my husband who hates working out gets on it a few minutes a day. I am planning to do before pics of me and him and if we see good results we will post. So far I love it and I don’t know if the results are visible but I certainly feel better.

    • I’m so glad to hear this! It is pretty tough at first but an amazing workout. I’m happy to hear your husband is using it as well. I’d love to see your before and after photos. I’ll be sure to check out your blog.

  7. I live in an apartment building so I am looking into the tread climber because of it’s somewhat compact size, but I am nervous about the noise as I have a downstairs neighbor. Please expand on just how compact and noisy it is. Thank you!

  8. Hi saw your reviews on the Bowflex machine. My husband and I will both be using the machine, we are deciding between the TC10 or TC20. Which one do you recommend. A bit confused on the the differences.
    Thanks

  9. I started using the treadclimber on August 28th. I manage to use it almost every day. I am at 43 minutes per session and go to 4.5 within the first three minutes and stay there. I burn about 620 calories or so. I am 54. I’m loving it.

  10. Hello,

    So you’ve had you TC20 a little over a year. Are you still using it? What kind of results (if any) did you see after continued use? If you’re not still using it on a regular basis; is there a reason? I’m thinking about purchasing one and want to do all of the research BEYOND the official website that I possibly can! I have 8 kids, work full time and seem like I’m always running. I don’t know how I can fit going to the gym into my day. We have a treadmill, but my knees and feet HURT after I use it, so honestly, I don’t. Any feedback or personal insight you have is greatly appreciated! Thank you!

    Vickie

    • Yes, we still use it and love it. It’s quite a challenge and it definitely burns a lot of calories and gets us sweating just by walking. I do have to say it’s a bit more like trudging or climbing uphill than simply walking, but that’s why it is such a great workout. It’s very low impact but again is a lot of work, so I can’t say how it would be for your knees and feet. The biggest thing we were surprised at is when we first got it that we could only do a few minutes at a time. We’ve definitely built up from there and both are up to 20-30 minutes regularly.

      Hope that helps! Let me know if you have other questions.

  11. Is it noisy?? I was hoping to purchase one and put it in my basement near our tv. Our treadmill is there but it’s so loud I can’t hear the tv anyway :s thanks!

  12. I thought I was doing something wrong as I am not able to do this three times a week or eve for thirty minutes. I do the most ten minutes a day Icahn not keep doing this as I am just a beginner and I feel it has been a waste but after seeing this video I am going to try the two minute intervals and see if able to keep doing it. Thank you. Can you email me if you have any more support for my daughter and I. Thank you

    Kellu

    • I’m glad you wrote. It is tough! The good news is it’s meant to be that’s why it burns more calories than a typical treadmill. I definitely agree that the interval method would work best for beginners. My parents tried it and they agreed that they would have to start at 5-10 minutes at a time but once we discussed intervals they agreed that it would help tremendously. On top of that I’ve read that interval training is supposed to be one of the best ways to build up stamina. I hope that you find it helps. If I think of any other tips, I’ll be sure to write.

      Good luck!

  13. How much head room would I need if my husband is
    Almost 6 ft….. We have our workroom in the basement
    and the ceiling is a drop ceiling that could be an issue ! Thanks
    It looks amazing and just what our knees need! E

    • It’s hard to say without knowing exactly how low your ceiling is. But we measured from the floor to the foot pedal and it’s 14 inches. So if he were to add that on to his height he could determine if he would fit.

      Hope that helps and good luck!

  14. Do you work for bowflex? I understand u “won” the unit. I have always been fit, runner and other sports. The last 5 years I blew up like a balloon. My knees are trade marked by Rice Crispies! I need this too work for that reason and that i am a fat ass, which isn’t helping me knees. My wife is very short and walks, well for lack of a better word “funny” due to her complications during her birth. She can not do eliptical because of her size and issue, very difficult. Please let me know. Thank you, Cory

  15. Have you or Dave seen any results from this? If so, what other diet or workouts (if any) have you done besides the treadclimber?

  16. This may sound like a silly question but is it easier on the minimum or the maximum. I seem to get winded very quickly on the treadclimber even at a low speed. I have had other people try it too and they experience the same thing.

  18. Hi Tesa,
    I am considering purchasing the TC 20 Tread Climber by Boxflex. Are you still happy with it? Have you had any issues with the machine or the customer service department? Do you feel it is a good choice for losing weight and toning up? Oh, and how long have you and your husband been using the machine? I would appreciate any information you have to share on the product. It is pretty expensive and I just want to make a wise choice. Thank You.
    Shelly

  19. This is a great review. I have been looking at the tread climber for about 3 months, but currently it is cost prohibitive.

  20. Hi,
    I’m thinking about trying this. I am 51 years old and very out-of-shape. My question to you is:
    Do you get bored doing this type of exercise? I am a teacher and usually move at a very fast pace throughout the day, but I need to get my “sedentary” lifestyle handled.

    Your thoughts?
    May

  21. Hi Tesa!

    Thanks so much for your review. It’s nice to get feedback from someone who’s not employed by the company or airing on any TV commercials. Do I sound skeptical? Lol! I loved your honest review. I’ve been looking at the Bowflext TreadClimber TC10 or TC20. The only thing stopping me is the price. I am very curious about one thing. If it’s too personal, please don’t answer. Here are my two questions:
    1. Have you lost any weight and/or inches?
    2. Are you burning more calories on the treadclimber compared to working out on a treadmill?

    Thanks so much for your time. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

    ~Kay :)

    • I think the most honest responses I’ve seen to the question of whether or not the TC burns more calories is that it burns more calories than a treadmill would at the same pace and time, which only means to me that you could walk your 4 mph on the treadmill or 2 (or less) on the TC and burn an equal amt of calories in an equal time period. It sounds like no gain in that area but it would use some additional muscles.

  22. I’ve been looking at the treadclimber for a while now but haven’t purchased because it’s quite an investment. I watched your video and it seems there was a lot of noise coming from the treadclimber. Is it noisy?

  23. I always wondered if these were really as good as they look on the commercial. I have talked to my husband about getting one. Like you I hate going out in the cold to workout.

  25. Hi, this is a great review. We are thinking about buying the exact same model (congrats on your win). We’ve been curious, our basement looks like yours. Do you have enough clearance? We are both tall. You look like you are a little close to the ceiling in the photo. Just curious. Thanks!

  26. first off, how did we not meet at BlogHer ???? next lucky dog that you got the tread climber, I saw everyone clamoring over it for a test.

  27. You won a TreadClimber?! That’s so amazing!!! I am so jealous, congratulations!!

    I have only heard good things about them, and have always wanted one!

  31. Wow, that is such an amazing workout machine! I have been eyeing these and really wanting one, but I’m nervous about them. Not for worrying that they would be great (cause i know they are amazing) but because of a problem with circulation I have when I use an elliptical. I lose feeling in my feet on those machines, so I worry it would happen on this too; which makes me sad because this would definitely be my kind of machine! I’m hoping I can find someone who has one close by so I can try it out for a few minutes to make sure I don’t loose feeling in my feet while using it; and then I can add it to my Christmas wish list.

  33. How great! If I had the extra money (which I don’t considering I am still without a decent treadmill) I would love one of these for “time on my feet” training over the winter. Makes it so much easier to get it in when the little one doesn’t want to be bundled into the jogging stroller.
    Congrats!

  34. Wow, that’s an awesome win! It looks like a great machine. I need to start using my ellyptical again. This reminded me. lol

  36. oh my, we lost our tredmill in our last move and it broke my heart. It was a an older model but we LOVED it. It really was like walking in the sand. I would love a newer one… maybe I will ask Santa, LOL!!!