bow flex treadclimber

 I can't get out of the house to walk because I take care of my 95 yr old M-I-L so I am thinking of buying a treadclimber instead of a regular treadmill. Has anyone tried this machine and will it be a good workout for me. I need to get my exercising moving so I can continue to lose weight. Going to a gym or simply walking outside is not an option. I would appreciate any info anyone has. thanks in advance for your help.

best,
Sharon

 We have a Treadclimber at work, and I absolutely HATE the thing.  It's a great workout, but the problem with it (for me at least) is that the two sides work independently from each other, so if you have any kind of gait deviation, whether you know it or not (could be something as simple as a weaker hip on one side, which is my issue),  you wind up  getting all lopsided and unable to take even steps and getting all gimpy on the thing.  I had to keep stopping and restarting 'cause I'd find myself walking like Igor, and I'm actually pretty strong and coordinated, so I just stopped using it.

 thanks Stacy - I keep hoping to find something I can use to keep myself active. Right now I'm not exercising much at all. I tried some videos on TV but mom watches the game show network constantly from daylight to dark so she doesn't like me putting anything else on - lol  I guess I'll keep looking for some machine that might boost my activity. Thanks for your input. Have a great day.

best,
Sharon

 Have you ever tried an elliptical machine?  It takes you through basically the same motions as the Treadclimber but is much more user-friendly, imo.   It's a more intense workout than walking on the treadmill, but much easier than running.   Don't be discouraged if you try it and it's hard to start with... my first try on one, I made it six minutes and thought I was gonna DIE, and within two weeks was doing an hour.  That might be a good alternative for you! :)

 You might try the Gazelle form Tony Little   It's a no impact machine.  I love mine

I would save the money on the expensive equipment that you will get bored with after a while, and go with at home DVD workout programs.  There's a huge variety based on age/intensity/impact etc.  I love all of the Beachbody workouts (even signed up as a coach to get a discount on their products and help others too :o)  they come with a variety of different DVD's, a workout schedule so you know what you're supposed to be doing each day etc.  One like SlimIn6 would be a great start.  And so much cheaper than equipment!  Take a look! http://twurl.nl/u7xflq   Good luck! 

 thanks very much for your input - I'm checking out the link right now.  

woohoo!!  thank you to everyone for your help - I knew I could count on my OH family for ideas and support.