Bowflex Tips

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I have reviewed the first 3 models in the line of TreadClimbers by Bowflex. I am now reviewing the newer TC5300 which will run you about $500 more than the TC5000 which was the top of the line. The TC5300 is one under the current top of the line.

What is a TreadClimber?

Bowflex’s TreadClimbers allow me to walk forward, as I do on a traditional treadmill, and step up, as I do on a stepper. The combination of movements makes sense. We know that interval training (switching speeds and resistance levels during your cardio workout) is a more effective way to train. Interval training forces your heart rate up faster than staying at one level. In addition it is thought that the changes from one speed to another or one resistance level to another increases your heart rate. For example if I am on a traditional treadmill power walking at 4.2 miles per hour with some incline my heart is going to be pumping hard. If I do this for 3 minutes and then bring the incline down and slow my walking down, my heart rate decreases. However after 4 minutes at that level I bring it back up again, my heart is working hard to get back up there. That is the theory behind interval training.

The TreadClimber TC 5300 uses interval training by combining three different cardio machines in one. It simulates the movements of a stairclimber, an elliptical machine and a treadmill. It feels like I’m stepping forward like a treadmill, stepping up like a stairclimber with low impact like an elliptical.

The TreadClimber TC5000 has two platforms rather than a single flat walking surface like what you find on a treadmill. Each platform rises separately.

If it seems that the TreadClimber TC5300 is very much like an elliptical machine. That is incorrect. They are very different. When I am on an elliptical my feet are locked into the foot pad. I like elliptical machines but I often find that my toes become numb. The TreadClimber TC5300 gives my feet a natural range of motion. My feet can move around.

Please note: I think the 5300 is a very safe machine. However like an elliptical it takes a bit of getting used to so take your time.

The TC5300 is 63″ long by 32″ wide by 61″ high. It’s larger than the 5000 which measures 46″ long by 28.5″ wide by 55″ high. The maximum weight is 300 pounds which is the same as the 5000. User height can be around 300 lbs, 4′ 10″ to 6′ 4.” The machine weighs 350 pounds almost twice that of the 5000. It has wheels but I wouldn’t say it’s portable!

It comes with a 5 year warranty on the motor, 3 years on electronics and parts, and 2 year on hydraulics. Bowflex is made by Nautilus.

Functions and Features:

The speed on the 5300 is a little higher than the 5000. The 5300 starts at 0.5 and goes to 4.5 mph versus 4.0 mph of the TC5000. Now you may be thinking that’s nothing. A treadmill will go up to 10 mph and more. However the TreadClimber works and feels very different so you can’t compare one to the other.

The TC5000 gives me the same 8 functions. They are speed, distance, time, calories per hour, total calories, floors climbed, odometer and heart rate you can change your routine easily and successfully. The TC1000 gave me 3 functions.

In addition to heart rate sensors the TC5300 has a chest strap to determine your heart rate. The 5000 has the strap also.

The consoles on the 5000 and 5300 are essentially the same. I found two holders on each side for water as well as space of items such as my cell phone. There was a magazine rack as well. The LCD readings were large, bright and easy to read. Also on this console were the faster and slower arrows, a quick start feature if you do not want to input data but a power module that allowed me to put in my weight and the resistance level I want to tread at. The resistance levels go from 0 to 12 on both the 5000 and 5300.

Sigh… Like all the TreadClimbers the way I have to set the resistance has been a deal breaker for me.

Although I can set the resistance by adjusting the pistons which are the long poles you see attached to the frame I have to get off. I’ve thought a lot about this because on Tony Little’s Gazelle Crosstrainer Pro I had to get off also. However that machine is very different (and 20 times less expensive) from the 5300.

Unlike the Gazelle in which I suggested setting the resistance and leaving it I don’t suggest that on a machine like the TreadClimber. I adjust my resistance constantly. I cannot do interval training on this machine. Unless every day you want to tread climb at one resistance level and then the next day at another level, this machine won’t work for you. It doesn’t work for me.

Jo, Your Personal Trainer’s Observations and Thoughts:

Like the 5000 The TC5300 gave me a great workout. The treads were nice and smooth and the machine was quiet. The treads go up and down smoothly. The 5300 is larger and heavier than the 5000. These differences don’t warrant the price difference. I am not recommending the TC5300 but if you like it I am suggesting saving some money and going with the 5000.

All my fitness equipment reviews can be found here.

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