Bowflex TC20 – Treadclimber

Overview

UPDATE: The TC20 is no longer available, replaced with the new and improved TC200. Check it out here.

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The Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 is the latest model of the newest Bowflex lineup (launched in 2011). It is the upgraded version of
TC5 and TC10, worthy of the entire highlight it’s been receiving ever since the launch.

Indeed, it is a sturdy and dynamic machine that provides efficiency, multi-functionality, a serious pack of user-friendly features and a nice design. But you have to be completely sure this machine is what you want, otherwise what’s the point in wasting perfectly good $3300?

Specifications

Click Specifications to see detailed model info

Speed : from 0.5 up to 4.5 mph/ 0.8- 7.2 kph

Incline : n/a

Motor : 0.5 CHP

Maximum User Weight : 300 lbs/ 136 kg

Technical Dimensions : 55" L x 31.5" W x 55.25" H/ 139 cm L x 80 cm W x 140 cm H

Unit Weight : 217 lbs/ 99 kg

Frame : steel

Minimum Ceiling Height : The treadles are 17 inches (43 cm) from the floor. Add this value to your height plus a few inches more for maximum comfort, in order to calculate your minimum ceiling height.

Warranty : 3 years for the entire machine This warranty is baked by Bowflex 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

TC20 Features

Display Info

The fully backlit LCD display offers feedback on:

– Time (in minutes and seconds);

– Distance (in miles/ MI or km)

– Calories (counts total calories used)

– Speed (in miles/ MPH or km/ KPH

– Heart rate (in beats/ minute)

The console also contains a G.O. Coach weekly progress display. This feature shows the progress of a G.O. Coach user towards his/ her weekly goal (based on distance, calories or time goals). Up to 2 users can use this feature.

Heart Rate Readings (includes a Wireless Chest Strap)

Being able to work out without using the handles is pretty cool. Also, the heart rate reading system doesn’t compromise on quick and accurate results, which is even cooler.

Hydraulic Workout Cylinder

The Hydraulic Workout Cylinder works as a cushioning system. This system helps users set the intensity of their workouts. In order to do so, the system must be set correctly. For setting references, users should check the User Manual.

Workouts

The TC20 comes with 2 types of workouts: Steady State and Interval Training. The Steady State workout involves slowly increasing your workout speed to a challenging and comfortable speed. The Interval workouts involve adjusting your speed faster and slower for specific lengths of time to raise and lower your breathing rate, calorie burn and heart rate.

You can use this treadclimber as treadmill (by walking forward), stairclimber (by stepping up) and elliptical (by combining these two actions). You can choose out of 12 levels of intensity, depending on your goal.

In the User Manual, you will find specific workout schedules for beginner, intermediate and advanced users.

You can also keep a workout log to track your workouts and progress.

The console also allows users to customize the Quick Start workout for time, distance and calories.

The G.O. Coach Workout is a programmable, goal oriented workout. The goal is to climb the three landmark structures- a mountain, a tower and a building- weekly. Your progress will be displayed with landmark segments.

Other features that you may be interested in are:

– The Bowflex Body Weight Loss Plan

– Ergonomic console

– Transport Wheels

– Compact design that fits into any home

Conclusions

The TC20 is the upgraded version of other models from the new Bowflex lineup. Indeed, Bowflex really did put a spin on the classic treadmill in order to offer users a 3-in-1 cardio machine, not only with multiple functionalities but also stable and challenging. There’s a lot of buzz going on around the TC20, but none of it is about the entertainment. We recommend the TC20 to serious cardio enthusiasts, who don’t need the extra motivation coming from iPods and stereo, because you won’t get any.

Pros

First and foremost, the key advantage of this machine is the efficient training. If it’s not the key advantage for you, then you should look for another machine, that’s for sure. The treadclimber gathers 3 different types of workout (treadmill, stairclimber and elliptical) in one movement. If it sounds like the ultimate workout, it’s because it is. And it’s all due to the dual-treadles system.

To make it even easier for enthusiast users, the TC20 allows you to switch from Treadmill or Stairclimber workouts. It’s definitely an advantage. It’s been working great for us, but then again we’re avid cardio users.

To back up your performance, this treadclimber comes with a wireless chest strap, which is a major pro for users who want to work out while having their hands free, without compromising the accurate and quick readouts.

If you’ve ever used a treadclimber before, you already know that calorie burning efficiency is a major plus. Users dealing with weight problems may burn twice as many calories as standard treadmills.

Not to mention the upgraded console, with a smooth and sleek design. Sure, for some users aesthetics don’t matter too much. Well…maybe a little.

The warranty is decent and the design doesn’t need extra room.

Main attraction

By far, one of the most important features for users to bolster their cardio experience is the G.O. console. Up to 2 users can use this goal-oriented console. Basically, it’s a mechanism that interacts with the users in order to establish, monitor and eventually compare goal results. We are really keen on the user-friendly G.O. console, and we think it’s almost imperative for a treadclimber to have such a feature.

Bowflex listened to the complaints of their customers and created longer treadbelts. This upgrade was more than welcome, at least for us.

You don’t have to worry about the injury and the stress, not even a little bit. The 3-in-1 system not only provides multiple workout benefits, but also minimizes impact on joints, hips and lower back.

Drawbacks

Well, the price is not that satisfactory, especially since other treadclimbers don’t require so much money, but they do offer a few extra advantages. Spending $3300 on this treadclimber means that you really must have it.

Also, this unit is heavy, so don’t think you’ll be moving it around.

All in all, the TC 20 is a worthwhile machine. It totally delivers: the efficiency, the functionality and the sleek design, but you do have to look deep into your pocket in order to get it. If you need more information you can visit the product page.

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