Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 Review + Pros & Cons

Quick Summary

The Bowflex TC5 utilizes the same TreadClimber technology as the higher-rated TreadClimbers, but has just the essentials to make it more affordable.

The TC5 does not come with all the features of the ~~TC10~~ (now the TC100) or the ~~TC20~~ (now the TC200), and while it is a decent piece of equipment, customer ratings and our research & rating algorithm show it’s not as good of an investment as the higher-rated models.

That said, if you save money compared to the higher-end models, this model is a good way to experience the TreadClimber technology for a much lower price. Learn more in our full Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 review below…

Specifications

Model	Bowflex TC5
Rating Our rating algorithm considers each model's features, specs & warranties, and 1,000's of reviews from verified customers, to save you time researching!	75.2%
Resistance Resistance is what determines calories burned per stride. The more levels, the more precisely you can control the difficulty.	1 Level
Speed Top speed is lower than a typical treadmill, but it burns about 2.5x the calories at these speeds because of the 3-in-1 motion.	0 - 4.5 mph
Functions There are 5 main functions included: Speed, Distance, Time, Calories and Heart Rate.	4 Functions
Display The Display refers to the screen you'll look at to monitor workouts. LED and LCD displays are similar to TV screens.	1 LCD
Max Weight Max User Weight is the amount of weight, in pounds (lbs), that it can safely support, which can represent durability.	300 lbs
Warranty The warranty is an important part of your investment. The longer the warranty, the longer you can get free/discounted repairs.	1 Year
Dimensions Dimensions are included to help you determine how it will fit in your workout space. They both have a smaller footprint than a treadmill.	Length: 43.1" Width: 27" Height: 52.8"
Profiles How many users can this model track with the Goal Coach progress tracking feature?	0
Goal Coach G.O. Coach, or Goal-Oriented Coach, is an interactive feature to set goals, track progress, and compare your results.
Climb Indicator The Climb Indicator will visually track the distance you have traveled in miles.
HR Monitor Does this model come with a Heart Rate Monitor? If so, it's a Wireless Chest Strap, which can be purchased separately.
Quick Controls Quick Controls allow you to select options with the touch of a button.
Accessory Tray Some include an accessory tray for holding items such as water bottles, wallets, keys, or MP3 players like iPods.
Portable? Is the machine easy to move? Does it have wheels? Portability is a great feature for space flexibility.
List Price Suggested retail price, including shipping. Typically higher than the price you'll pay with promotions.	Discontinued
Best Deal This link goes to the best deal we've found online, including any coupon codes or sales going on.
Best Deal We do not sell equipment; we are a free reviews service. This link goes to our top-rated retailer for this model	Visit Site

Our Rating

Rating: 75.2/100. Good choice for low-impact, high-calorie burning exercise at this price. Very basic feature set and 1-year warranty earn the TC5 a lower rating than the TC10.

For all the details, compare all 3 TreadClimbers side-by-side.

Pros:

Compact and portable trainer (smallest model)
Innovative 3-in-1 motion burns lots of calories
4 Functions: calories, time, speed & distance
Built-in indicators including calories burned & climb
No need to plug in to an outlet and use electricity
Low joint impact (great for injury prevention & recovery)

Cons:

Motorless trainer is desired by some, not others
Full coverage warranty only lasts 1 year
In January 2012, some shipments arrived damaged

Introduction

The Bowflex TC5 is an economical way to burn calories, fat and lose inches in four weeks.

The TreadClimber was designed to provide 3 workouts in 1 thus allowing the user to walk forward like a treadmill, step up like a Stairclimber as well as enjoy the generally smooth operation of the elliptical.

When you combine these three elements into one compact trainer like the Bowflex TC5 you get a workout that is unrivaled and actually guaranteed to burn more calories when compared to a standard treadmill.

Workout Programs

The Bowflex TC5 offers four workout functions which is nothing special yet enough to get the job done.

We do wish the TC5 would include a heart rate monitor, but since the price tag for the model is so low they have to strip some features from the wallet friendly version.

One thing we really like about the Bowflex TC5 is you can experience the treadmill, Stairclimber and elliptical motions at the same time.

It’s an extremely versatile workout experience.

Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 Features

The Bowflex TC5 allows the user to reduce exercise time with an efficient, low impact workout. Since you get the workout motion of the treadmill, StairClimber and elliptical you burn calories much faster than simply exercising on a treadmill or elliptical.

The TC5 features user-generated resistance including four individual functions, and it is equipped with LCD display including readouts of speed, time and distance.

Reach speeds that max out at 4.5 mph on a quiet, motorless operation that some consumers absolutely love and others despise (it depends on personal preference).

Make sure you are getting the ultimate workout with built-in indicators including “Calories Burned” and “Climber”.

The Bowflex Body Weight Loss Plan is included with purchase.

Warranty & Guarantee

In January of 2012, some customers told us their TC5 arrived damaged.

I talked to Bowflex and they said the issue has been addressed, though I still recommend the TC10 over the TC5 because of its higher quality and features.

Either way, it’s always important to have a solid warranty and money-back guarantee on fitness equipment.

The Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 warranty includes one year of full coverage on the entire machine. The money-back guarantee gives you 6 weeks to try it out.

If you don’t think it’s worth the investment, call (800) 647-3405 and ship back for a full refund of the purchase price.

Conclusion

With a budget around $1,000 but you want to experience the 3-in-1 motion of the TreadClimber — the Bowflex TC5 is the entry-level model.

This model does not provide many extras (and could really use some basics like a heart rate monitor), but overall it’s a solid trainer that gets the job done.

Overall, we highly recommend upgrading to the Bowflex TC10 if your budget allows for it.

If you would like to talk with Bowflex or place an order on the phone, their customer support number is (800) 647-3405.

Still not sure which one is right for you? Compare all 3 models side-by-side here.

Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 Review

Rating: 75.2%