Bowflex TreadClimber TC100 Review
Overview
UPDATE: As of mid 2021 it appears that the Bowflex TreadClimbers have been discontinued and replaced by all new Bowflex treadmills. Check them as an alternative.
The Bowflex TreadClimber TC100 is one of two unique cardio trainers first introduced a few years ago. It gives you three machines in one: a treadmill, an elliptical and a stair climber, giving you the cardio benefits of all of them combined.
These machines have become quite popular over the years, as it gives users the ability to burn a lot of calories without having to run or spend large amounts of time working out. something we can all appreciate.
Let’s take a closer look at the TC100 to see what it is all about…
Specifications
Click Specifications to see detailed model info
Speed : up to 4 mph
Belt : Two treadles: 14.5 inches max from floor
Heart Rate Reading : Pulse grips
Maximum User Weight : 300 lbs.
Unit Dimensions : 57″ L x 31.5″ W x 59″ H
Warranty : 2 years
Tracking Compatibility : NA
Bowflex TC100 Pros
Enhanced Cardio Workout
The fact that you get three machines in one with the TC100 gives you the benefits of all of them, allowing you to target more muscle groups and challenge yourself in ways you’re not able to on a traditional treadmill.
The “Just Walk” workout is also easier on your knees and joints, with less impact than you find on other machines, and you can burn more calories per minute as well, allowing you to complete your workouts in less time.
Great For Non-Runners
For those of you who would prefer not to jog or run, the TC100 gives you the ability to burn a lot of calories (up to 2 1/2 x more per minute than on a typical treadmill according to the company) by simply walking on the machine.
This is a big plus for many users. The max speed on the TreadClimbers is just 4 mph. Obvious, if you are a runner, this is not the machine for you.
Compact Design
At only 57″ long, the TC100 is quite compact, making it ideal for home gyms. At its highest, the two independent belts, called treadles, will only be 14.5″ from the floor.
So to figure out whether this machine will fit in your home, add the height of the tallest user to 14.5″, then add a few inches of clearance space. It also comes with transport wheels for portability.
If you compare the TC100 to the typical treadmill at about 80″ long, you can really see the space saving difference.
Other Appealing Features
The TC100 has a new interactive LCD display, a charging station with USB, a redesigned media shelf, Quick Start option and a rear platform for easy entry.
Bowflex TC100 Cons
For Walkers Only
Although you can get a great workout on this 3 in 1 machine (treadmill, elliptical, stepper) as we mention above it has a max speed of only 4 mph. So if you prefer to jog or run some of the time, you are out of luck with this machine. A traditional treadmill allows you to walk, jog or run so there is more diversity.
No Tracking Capability
Although you can track your workouts via Bluetooth on the up-level TC200, the TC100 does not currently have that capability.
Poor Warranty
As with many of the Bowflex machines, the warranty on the TC100 is not great. You are only covered for a period of two years, which is sub-par for such an expensive machine.
But user reviews have been quite positive on the TreadClimbers and customer service seems to be better than with most companies. So hopefully you will not have any issues with your machine.
Bowflex TC100 Review - Conclusion
The TreadClimbers have been very big sellers for Bowflex, and the new and improved models are likely to be even more popular due to their advanced features and capabilities.
Take a look at the new TC100 model and see if it’s the right choice for you. You can watch product videos on the company site to give you a better idea of how it works and how it compare to the traditional treadmill.
If you can afford it, the Bowflex TC200 has a lot more to offer, including built in workout programs that the TC100 does not have, wireless heart rate monitoring for more accuracy, Bluetooth workout tracking and a better warranty.
It’s a lot closer to a traditional machine feature wise, and is definitely worth considering if budget allows.
If not, the TC100 is a perfectly good machine for effective walking workouts, a solid, compact trainer that will fit well in your home gym.