Bowflex Treadclimber Vs Treadmill – Which Is Right For You?
The Bowflex Treadclimber is a very popular twist on the traditional treadmill. Instead of a main belt, it uses two double pedals that rise to meet your feet as you walk.
The main benefit of the Treadclimber is that it burns calories up to 3 times faster than walking on a flat treadmill. So you see weight loss results very fast.
However, treadmills also give you some unique benefits over the treadclimber.
So which is better for you? Here are some of the main differences to know to help you decide:
#1 Calorie Burn
The Treadclimber uses the power of walking up a steep incline to burn calories up to 3 times faster than walking on a treadmill on a flat incline.
Incline walking uses the larger leg muscles more, which in turn requires many more calories. So you burn more calories per workout and lose pounds faster.
This is obviously a great advantage, as it can be inspiring to see the results in the mirror so quickly.
#2 Less impact on the Treadclimber
Because the pedals rise to meet your feet, the Treadclimber gives you a lower-impact workout than a treadmill. If you are prone to shin splints or running injuries, this is another benefit the Treadclimber gives you over the treadmill.
#3 Walk or run?
The Treadclimber was only designed to be walked on by you. It is not designed for runners as the top speed limit is capped at around 4.5 MPH.
You don’t need to run to lose weight fast with a treadclimber. However, if you like to run, you’ll obviously want to use a treadmill rather than a treadclimber here.
Treadmills, for example, will have speed limits of 0-10 MPH or more, so you have plenty of room to run!
#4 Size matters
Traditional treadmills have a more rectangular footprint and can take up more space than a treadclimber, which has a squarer footprint.
On the other hand, many treadmills nowadays fold up quite easily to save space.
If you have a small training area, you can opt for a Treadclimber or a folding treadmill.
#5 Training programs and heart rate monitors
This is one area where you can usually find a treadmill that dwarfs the Treadclimber. For example, most treadmills come with several built-in workouts that control the speed/incline for you and provide a workout challenge.
They also come with a handgrip heart rate sensor or even a wireless monitor option.
The only Treadclimber model that comes with built-in workouts and a heart rate monitor is the premium TC20 model. The other two models do not include any training program or heart rate control.
These are some of the main differences between a Bowflex Treadclimber and a treadmill. Regardless of what you decide, you have great options in any category.
The main thing is to choose a machine that fits your lifestyle, budget and fitness goals and of course, find something that you are excited about using it! Good luck and have fun!