Friday, 29 January 2010

• Trying The TreadClimber

  

  
  You have probably seen the infomercials for The TreadClimber. This machine is like the love child of the treadmill and Stair Climber. It promises a low impact workout, perfect for people who have knee or back problems, while torching twice the amount of calories you would burn on a treadmill at the same speed and time.

  I had the chance to try out this machine this week while away on a business trip. My regular gym does not have this type of equipment so I just had to jump at the chance to try one out while I had the opportunity. I like to pump my arms when I walk to get a fuller workout, but the sensation of being on a treadmill and yet walking up and down was such a different sensation that when I tried to move my arms I sorta lost my balance. That was a con for me.

  However, a huge pro was that I felt the machine working the muscles in my upper thighs (the back and inner parts), my calves and butt. Even more important, I sweated! I only stayed on for fifteen minutes, reaching a mile, but the machine said I burned over 100 calories. I do not know how accurate that is because I did not type in my weight (I was not familiar with all the programs and buttons yet, so I just hit quick start). Still, if the infomercials claim is true, that you burn twice the calories that you would if you had hit the treadmill for the same amount of time, then the machine was spot on.

  I have to say, I really enjoyed it. The machine can only go up to 4.5 mph but it stimulates so many different muscles at one time that it may be a fair trade off. If available to me, I would certainly incorporate it into my regular routine, perhaps alternating it with the elliptical, stair master or stair climber. I didn't even bother doing lunges on the day I tried the TreadClimber. I felt as if I had already worked out the muscles that I would have if I had done my usual number of lunges.

  These babies are priced between roughly $1,500-$2,500, which isn't so bad. When buying these type of machines it can be to your benefit to spend a little more dough. Also, Bowflex has a payment plan that's available to those who do not want to pay the full amount at once. You can purchase a quality treadmill these days under $1,000, but in terms of ellipticals or machines such as The TreadCimber, it pays to put a bit more money in. Exercise equipment can be like furniture. The price can be high, but if it's quality, you will have the item for years and years. If I had the room, I would consider buying one. I liked it that much!

  
  Have you heard of or used the TreadClimber before? What did you think?

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