Save money and time with our guide to the best vertical climbing machines on the market at the moment. If you’ve not heard, these home gym machines are a serious new way to get in shape, offering an all-over body workout that will tone up arms, legs, back and core muscles and also lose calories. Lets dig in and see what the best products in this category are.
- Material: ABS, Steel
- Weight Capacity: 330 pounds
- Material: Cold-rolled Steel
- Weight Capacity: 240 lbs (110kg)
- Product Weight: 14.97kg
- Dimensions(cm): 25.4L x 15.2W x 144.8H
- Material: Metal
- Weight Capacity: 300kg
- Product Weight: 16kg
- Dimensions(cm): Height adjustable 135-207 cm
Vertical Climber’s Buyer’s Guide & Tips
What exactly is a vertical climber?
In a nutshell, this is a bit of home gym gear that will work out a large number of your muscle groups at the same time, while building your cardio.
To say it’s a bit like climbing a ladder doesn’t quite do it justice because you’re simultaneously climbing up on one side and pushing down with the other.
Muscles you’ll be working:
- Shoulders
- Chest
- Back
- Buttocks
- Biceps
- Thighs Calves
Cheaper home models
The term ‘vertical climber’ covers a wide range of products and you might have seen some larger, chunkier ones at commercial gyms.
The home training kind costs substantially less and has a lighter frame that’s designed to be folded away. They’re around a tenth of the price, but the drawback is you don’t have the same level of stability you get from the larger commercial machines at the gym.
Tech talk: V-Climber Features
Displaying and counting your progress
Vertical climbers generally have a basic counter that will track how many ‘steps’ you’ve completed. It’s a basic LCD affair and because of the way the machines are built, it’s generally stored at your waist level, making it hard to see unless you jump off.
Vertical Climber Machine
This vertical climber provides a complete full-body workout, ideal for limited spaces. Its adjustable resistance levels and durable construction make it suitable for users seeking an effective and space-saving fitness solution.
Check Latest PriceWhat we liked:
The Vertical Climber impresses with its compact and space-saving design, making it ideal for limited workout spaces. Users value its smooth and quiet operation, allowing for seamless workouts without disturbance. The adjustable resistance levels offer versatility, enabling users to customize their workout intensity effectively. Additionally, the equipment's sturdy and durable construction ensures long-term use, while its portability and foldable design make it convenient for storage and transport.
What we didn't like:
While the Vertical Climber offers numerous benefits, some drawbacks should be noted. Users find the weight capacity to be restrictive for heavier individuals, impacting inclusivity. Additionally, the lack of adjustable resistance for upper body workouts and assembly complexity are reported as drawbacks. Taller individuals may also find the stride length and height limitations less accommodating for their workouts.
How does it compare to similar fitness equipment?
Compared to similar fitness equipment, the Vertical Climber stands out for its compact design, smooth operation, and adjustable resistance levels. However, its limitations in weight capacity and upper body resistance may be a consideration for users seeking more comprehensive workout options and variations.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Vertical Climber offers a space-saving, durable, and effective full-body workout and cardiovascular training solution. While it excels in quiet operation and adjustable resistance, potential users should consider its limitations in weight capacity and upper body resistance. Overall, it's a suitable choice for those seeking a versatile and compact workout option.
- Compact and Space-saving Design: Users value the small footprint, ideal for limited workout spaces.
- Smooth and Quiet Operation: Customers praise its quiet and seamless performance during workouts.
- Adjustable Resistance Levels: Versatility allows effective customization of workout intensity.
- Full-body Workout: Provides a comprehensive workout targeting multiple muscle groups.
- Sturdy and Durable Construction: Robust build and durability for long-term use.
- Limited Weight Capacity: Some users find the weight limit restrictive for heavier individuals.
- Lack of Upper Body Resistance: Absence of adjustable resistance for upper body workouts.
New Image Maxi Climber
Lightweight yet durable exercise machine perfect for people looking for a high-intensity workout at home. Engages all major muscle groups.
£129.99 From Amazon UKWhat I really appreciate about the New Image Maxi Climber is its fantastic capacity to engage all major muscle groups. It mimics rock climbing, making it a full-body workout that boosts cardiovascular health. The simplicity of using your body weight means there's minimal stress on joints. It's compact, lightweight and foldable, perfect for those with limited space.
With five height settings, it suits a range of users. The steel construction feels durable. Plus, the 21-day MaxiDiet and Exercise Plan included is a nice touch for those looking to complement their workouts with a structured plan. Many users rave about how quickly it gets the heart pumping compared to other equipment.
However, some drawbacks exist. Users noted that the digital counter sometimes fails to function. This can be annoying if you rely on it. The friction from the rubber rollers can produce noise and wear down quickly, creating a mess and concern for durability. Assembly is straightforward, but instructions could improve.
Taller individuals may face space issues due to the climber’s height, potentially hitting their heads on the ceiling. It’s an entry-level unit, robust but not top-tier. Despite these issues, many users still find it valuable for its price.
Compared to other exercise machines, the Maxi Climber is particularly space-efficient. Its vertical design distinguishes it from treadmills or elliptical machines. It offers a unique approach to cardio that's both effective and different. Despite its drawbacks, users appreciate its compactness and affordability, making it a popular choice for home workouts. The build quality isn't the highest, but it holds its ground well.
Overall, the climber is a solid pick for those looking for a full-body workout machine that's easy to store and not too harsh on the budget. It's best for users who want an intense cardio workout at home without taking up too much space. The design flaws detract slightly, but for many, it's a worthwhile purchase.
- Mimics rock climbing motions: Provides a full body workout by engaging all major muscle groups.
- Low impact on joints: Uses bodyweight for resistance, reducing stress on joints.
- Compact and easy to store: Its foldable design is ideal for small spaces.
- Adjustable height settings: Five different height adjustments for personalized workouts.
- Lightweight construction: Weighs only 14.97kg, making it easy to move around.
- Rubber rollers wear quickly: Friction causes rollers to degrade with repeated use.
- Timer and step counter issues: Some users report problems with the digital counter's accuracy.
M-YN Vertical Climber Machine Stepper Space Walker Heavy Duty Mountain Climber Exercise Machine
Ideal for beginners looking for a home fitness solution that enhances strength and endurance while being easily storable.
Check Latest PriceVertical Climber Overview
The M-YN Vertical Climber Machine is a versatile exercise tool that stands out with its ability to offer effective whole body training. I love how it targets the abdomen, buttocks, waist, arms, back and thighs, contributing to muscle strength and endurance boost. The non-slip foam handles and particle non-slip pedals ensure added safety during intense workouts. Plus, it holds up to 136 kilograms, which is impressive.
Its foldable design makes it perfect for compact spaces and easy to store when I don't need it. The height adjustment range from 135-207 cm with five levels caters to various user heights and resistance preferences, making it adaptable for both beginners and more advanced users.
What’s missing? The LCD monitor is basic. While it tracks essential metrics, a more advanced display could elevate the experience. Additionally, the initial user rating of 1.0 out of 5 stars from one reviewer raises concerns. It would have been beneficial if it included more feedback to get a full picture of its reliability. Addressing these areas could make this product even more appealing.
Compared to other steppers, the M-YN climber offers a high weight capacity. However, a best-seller rank of 302 in its category suggests it may lack popularity. This compact and foldable climber still holds potential. It might feel limited in features compared to more advanced options.
The M-YN Vertical Climber Machine is ideal for those starting out or needing a space-saving exercise machine. It excels in whole body workouts and durability. Consider it if basic monitoring suffices and compact storage is a priority.
- Effective whole body training: Targets major muscle groups for enhanced strength and endurance.
- Compact and foldable: Designed for easy storage, perfect for small spaces.
- Adjustable height: Five levels of height adjustment for personalized use.
- High weight capacity: Supports users up to 300kg, accommodating various body types.
- Non-slip design: Features particle non-slip pedals and foam handles for safety during workouts.
- Low user satisfaction: 1.0-star rating based on limited feedback.
- High price point: Considered expensive, especially given the limited positive feedback.
- Limited customer reviews: Only one review available, which may not provide a comprehensive user perspective.
More info and buying help picking your new climber
For anyone looking for a more advanced form of tracking, you can use your Fitbit (or another fitness tracker) to get your heart rate, calories and amount of work done over time. You can also use a heart rate strap if you’ve got one from your other gym equipment.
Pulley or chain?
You’ll typically find these machines have either fabric rope pulley or a chain drive. Neither kind is especially quiet, but the rope pulley.
Why you might love these fitness machines
It’s a good cardio workout
If you’re wondering if these machines are just a gimmick or not, it’s definitely possible to get your heart rate up pretty easily. The one caveat is that, like rowing or running, it depends on how much you put in.
Vertical climbers also lend themselves well to HIIT sessions, where you will work intensely for short periods of time. If you’re looking for a real challenge, either build your own program using a free app or follow along with one of the climber machine guides on youtube.
You’ll be training most of your muscles
Like cross trainers, vertical climbers do a great job of working out multiple muscle groups at once. This saves time and money, while working on your overall muscle tone and strength.
They’re comparatively cheap
With treadmills setting you back up to £1000 and beyond and rowing machines not far behind, a stepper will normally cost less than the £250 mark. As far as gym gear goes, they’re a cheap way to get in shape and tone up.
They don’t take up much space
One of the advantages of one of these climber machines vs a treadmill or rower is that they take up a fraction of the space.
They’re also far easier to store than all but the most compact running machine. They’re lightweight too – anyone should be able to carry this and stash it in the spare room or a cupboard.
Why you might want to hold off on that v-climber
While we think these machines have some merit, they’re not going to be for everyone. Here are some things you might not like about vertical climbers.
The climbing motion is very repetitive
Like rowing and running, you’re basically doing the same thing over and over. But with rowing and running, it’s a little easier to vary your workout in terms of resistance, incline and using different programs.
With Vertical climbers, you’re doing the same thing without much variation.
It’s a limited range of motion
Another thing with these climber machines is that you’re only using a fairly limited set of motion. Ideal if you’re just looking to break a sweat and shed some calories. But our recommendation would be to combine this with some other exercises – even some free, bodyweight ones.
Not everyone will be able to do this exercise
This is a full-body workout so you’ll need to be pretty much injury-free throughout your body. If you’ve got back problems, this is definitely one to avoid (try a recumbent bike instead).
Climbers are not silent!
There’s a kind of repetitive sound to most vertical climbers. It’s not deafening but you’ll hear the bars sliding up and down. If you’re looking for something you can do early without waking the rest of the house up, you might want to try something different as this is quite a loud way to get in shape!
One thing you can do to reduce the noise is to oil the climber. You can use WD 40 for this or silicone lubricant (the same one you put on treadmills). You’ll need to apply it to the machine’s rods. This is a good regular habit to get into as it will keep your vertical climber running smoothly.
If you want to increase your muscle size
Vertical climbers are great for overall fitness and toning your muscles up but if you’re looking to actually make your muscles larger, you’ll need to do resistance training.
Tips for getting the most out of your Vertical Climber
So, you’ve picked the best climber and it’s standing proudly ready for the first workout? Here are 5 tips to getting the most from your workouts.
- Stretch before and after your workout – These machines are notorious for making your legs ache the day after, which isn’t a sensation everyone likes (although it’s a sign you’re muscles are getting stronger). Take time to warm up and stretch before getting stuck into your training.
- Start small! As with any new exercise, the worst thing you can do is hop on and grind away like a mad man or woman. Set our time to 5 minutes, 10 minutes or just enough to get a sweat on and raise your heart rate. Increase over time and build up your climbing sessions gradually.
- Try a youtube workout (see below) – A great way to make the time fly while you’re exercising on your vertical trainer is to follow along with a youtube video on your phone (Smart TVs are even better for this). A good video is Rosalie Brown’s 20 Minute. You definitely don’t need to do the full 20 minutes though.
- Use your phone to time yourself – There are some great free apps (just search the app store for ‘HIIT apps’ and you can set your own workout, complete with low-intensity sections and high-intensity parts. Track your steps each session and try to beat it next time.
- Protect your floors – As with pretty much any training equipment, it’s a good idea to get a decent mat to go under it to protect your floor. Especially if you’re planning on using your vertical climber on hard or wood floors. They’re fairly cheap and will add a bit of cushioning to the machine too. This is a really good one on Amazon.
