Buyer's Guides

Best Vertical Climbers (Update for 2021)

If you’re like most of today’s population, you might be in the market for a workout machine to add to your home gym. Have you considered looking into a vertical climber? Most people turn to machines including treadmills, ellipticals, or even exercise bikes. But a climbing machine might just be the best option for these days.

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Best Overall Vertical Climber- Maxi Climber the Original Patented Vertical Climber, As Seen on TV – Full Body Workout with Bonus Fitness App for iOS and Android, Black & Silver

MaxiClimber is a versatile and easy to assemble climber. Offering a full-body workout, this machine combines weight resistance, aerobic exercise, and muscle toning. You’ll be engaging all your major groups of muscles allowing you to burn fat and build muscle all from the comfort of home. Using your weight allows you to get a great workout that’s low impact.

You can sign up for their 21-day Maxi-Climber interval program designed to help you maximize and burn more calories. You’ll also have access to the 21 Day Complete Meal Plan with over 80 recipes. You can download the MaxiClimber fitness app and start keeping track of your progress!

While getting on a typical treadmill for an hour will help you burn 250 calories, the MaxiClimber can burn as much as 509 calories in an hour’s workout session.

Features

  • Easy-to-use and designed for everyone regardless of fitness level
  • Combines muscle toning and cardio exercise in one step
  • Easy to assemble and comes 90% assembled
  • Offers a low impact exercise session

Pros

  • Easier on the ankles and knees
  • Supports people up to 240 pounds
  • Compact folding allowing for easy storage
  • Comes with BONUS Fitness App

Cons

  • This machine uses rollers made from plastic and they may break easier the heavier you are
  • This version of a Maxi-Climber does not have a mobile device holder
  • Timer display has been reported as too low for some people

 

Doufit Vertical Climber Exercise Machine, CM-01 Heavy Duty Folding Climbing Machine for Home Workout, Fitness Stair Climber with LCD Monitor (Max Capacity 220Lbs)

As with just about any vertical climber, you’ll find that lots of muscle groups are being used in both the upper and lower areas. All these muscle groups are exercised and with regular climbing, you’ll find stamina increases as does endurance.

The Doufit Vertical Climber is great for getting that workout at home no matter how little time you have. It helps you feel as if you are climbing rocks and can help you achieve a full-body workout in half the time you would spend at the gym.

With 7 adjustable heights, you can ensure you are comfortable during your workout. The length from the handle to the pedal is 4’ to 5’. The max height for the handlebar is 5’4 to 6’3. Keep in mind that when the height is increased the handles might become a little wobbly. Make sure you tighten the knobs well before use.

You’ll also enjoy the steady design as this machine is equipped with U-bend foot pipes, durable pedals, and anti-skid rubber caps. This climber adapts a triangular structure along with a steel frame making this a steady climber that offers safe performance.

Features

  • Durable, adjustable, and foldable
  • LCD monitor that keeps track of data including calories, virtual distance, and time
  • Adjustable heights to 7 different levels
  • Durable pedals offer non-skid strips to increase safety while working out

Pros

  • Strengthened steel cable which helps to increase safety
  • Foam sleeves are great for keeping your hands comfortable during climbing
  • Doufit climbers can move thanks to movable wheels allowing you to move it where you need
  • Has a maximum capacity of 220 lbs

Cons

  • Some people have reported metal shards flaking off over time
  • Many people have reported that the gaskets for the upper body failed quicky

 

MaxiClimber XL-2000 Hydraulic Resistance Vertical Climber. Combines Muscle Toning + Aerobic Exercise for Maximum Calorie Burn. 12 Resistance Levels, Lightweight Aluminum Mainframe, Free Fitness App.

No one is fond of working out, to begin with. Therefore, you find people becoming bored easily with their workout routine. If you aren’t seeing results quickly, chances are you aren’t going to want to do that workout. After all, the whole point is to see a payoff, right? You want to make sure your exercises are engaging you and keeping you interested so you can reach that payout.

The Maxi Climber XL-2000 is another type of vertical climber that’s earned quite a name for itself. Users not only can torch away unwanted calories, but they can also have fun while doing it too! Offering a convenient folding design, this machine is great for any at-home gym even if you are tight on space. This is a great all-in-one machine to give your body a workout that will have you saving money on gym memberships and more!

Features

  • The price of this vertical climber is affordable to many people This climber is at least 20 times cheaper than some other versions that you will come across.
  • You’ll find that with some vertical climbers they are not as portable or lightweight as this one. This means it’s easy to carry and move as it is equipped with wheels.
  • The Maxi Climber XL-2000 has a compact design built to it. This makes storing this climber even easier than most models allowing it to fit into the tightest of places including closets.

Pros

  • Foldable design for easier storage
  • Less maintenance and no motor installed as the machine uses your weight as resistance
  • More resistance levels allow for beginners and the more advanced fitness person to find just what they need
  • Having a sturdy frame is important and the Maxi Climber XL-2000 is designed from aluminum which helps increase stability and durability
  • The maximum weight is 300lbs

Cons

  • Some customers complain that the polyurethane rollers fail shortly after purchase.
  • Some have stated that the rubber wheels begin to fail or come off the climber.
  • A little on the pricey side if you are looking for something within your lower budget.

 

RELIFE REBUILD YOUR LIFE Vertical Climber for Home Gym Folding Exercise Cardio Workout Machine Stair Stepper Newer Version

One thing you might see as a common complaint in the market is that there are shoddy mechanics as compared to other climbers. This climber simulates the movements of climbing, hiking, and mountaineering.

Instead of using cheap plastic rollers as others might, there is a dual mechanical system consisting of cables and slideways. Each side has two slideways, which help smooth out the motion of the exercise. There are hidden pulleys inside the machine. Friction is reduced thanks to this backup pulley system. Having two mechanical systems rather than just one might help extend the life of the vertical climber.

Features

  • Easy to assemble
  • Quick assembly with only 5 main parts
  • Compact size for easier storage
  • Large foot pedals
  • Foam handlebars

Pros

  • Stabilizing floor bars prevent skidding
  • 5 different height settings which double as difficulty
  • Pedals contain a slight inclination
  • 5 adjustable resistance levels
  • Adjustable design allows for easier storage

Cons

  • No actual adjustment for resistance
  • Some people complain about the foot pedals causing pain
  • Some people complain about it being cheaply made

 

ANCHEER Vertical Climber Indoor & Folding Climber Exercise Machine for Home Gym Fitness, Compact Rock-Climbing Machine with Adjustable Height & LCD Display

For those who have a love of mountain climbing but struggle to get out to do it, this vertical climber is a great alternative. The Ancheer vertical climber is portable making it great for even on-the-go trips.

It’s vital to warm up before you just get all gung-ho with working out. One of the greatest features is that this vertical climber is equipped with an exercise bike allowing for warm-ups. You get the imitation of rock climbing with this climber giving you a superior workout all over.

The Ancheer vertical climber is easy to assemble making getting started easy. All frames have been prepared for you, so all that you need to do is put them together.

Features

  • Adjustable height
  • Easy storage thanks to a foldable design
  • Easy assembly
  • LCD Display
  • Integrated bike for easy warmups

Pros

  • Adjustable handles included
  • Foot pedals are comfortable
  • Easy to store
  • Made to last from sturdy steel

Cons

  • No adjustable resistance
  • Only available in one color

 

Vertical Climbers Buyers Guide

Climbing machines are designed to mimic rock climbing. There are handles that you pull downwards while pushing and pulling with your feet in pedals.  Your core remains engaged during the workout and while this can look simple, when combined you have one heck of a low-impact workout that’ll have your whole body getting in shape.

Every muscle from your glutes, abs, hamstrings, quads, glutes, calves, arms, and back gets a workout each time you use your vertical climber.

What Are the Benefits of a Vertical Climber?

There are several benefits to using a vertical climber. Here are some of the many:

Burns Calories

Vertical climbers are dynamic machines that are more efficient than most other exercise machines. This is because it works to increase your metabolism allowing you to burn about 20% more calories than you would with any other type of workout routine. Working on your vertical climber for 30-minutes a day three days a week can ensure every muscle group is used.

Improves Cardiovascular Health

For those who live a sedentary life, there’s a pretty good chance your cardiovascular fitness might not be in top shape. There may be some fine-tuning that can ramp it up.

For those concerned about losing weight, you’ll achieve results plus so much more with your vertical climber. You’ll get that much-needed cardio workout in to help keep your heart purring and in top shape.

Any exercise that works to get your heart rate up can be great for your mood, weight, sleep, diabetes, stress levels, energy and can also help reduce your chances of developing heart disease later down the road. It can also help prevent some types of cancer.

Lose the Weight!

Vertical climbers have been proven effective to help people shed unwanted pounds. This is a low-impact workout and provides you with an all-over body workout without being too rough on the joints. Not only does it help burn calories, but excess fat is reduced as well. All it takes is a mere 30-minutes to reap the benefits!

Upper Body Strength is Improved

Other than looking awesome and fit, upper body strength is improved and this can help build muscle mass while minimizing your chance of injury. Upper body strength is what improves your posture, and this is great for people who spend several hours a day hunched over in a seat all day. You’ll notice a difference in your arms, chest, and even core strength.

Lower Body Composition Improves

Vertical climbers can do wonders for your overall body. It helps your body from your hips down as well including:

  • Thighs
  • Glutes
  • Calves
  • Hamstrings

These are muscles that typically are ignored when working out for some. This is especially true for those who don’t live a regularly active lifestyle.

By neglecting these parts of the body, you might begin to experience musculoskeletal loss over time, and this increases the risk of losing bone density, muscle mass and can increase your chances of injury. Poor mobility can come as a result of neglecting certain muscles.

Vertical climber workouts are not only beneficial to the heart and cardiovascular system, but they are amazing for your lungs, heart, back, and lower extremities.

Reduces the Chance of Developing Type 2 Diabetes

For those who don’t have a lot of wiggle room in their schedule to work out perhaps because of work or your personal life, the chance of developing Type 2 diabetes increased by about a third. That’s 33%!

Vertical climbers help your body burn visceral fat which is known to be the primary culprit when it comes to developing diabetes, heart disease, and even high blood pressure.

Having high amounts of fat in the abdominal area can lead to what is referred to as “active fat”. This fat is stored around all your major internal organs which include the liver, pancreas, heart, and intestines. This in turn leads to dangerous effects that can include:

  • Colorectal cancer
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Increased resistance to insulin
  • Breast cancer
  • Heart disease

This can sound scary, but it’s the reality of what can happen if you don’t get up off the couch and do something to benefit your health!

Value for Your Money

Vertical climbers are both inexpensive and easy to store and put away when not in use. It’s a great addition to your home gym, or to incorporate into your workout routine at the gym, providing your gym has these machines there.

Using it consistently and regularly will soon prove to show significant improvements to your body’s strength, mood, energy levels, physical composition, sleep, and even your sex life!

The only question is what are you waiting for?!

Who Should Get a Vertical Climber?

Simply put, anyone and everyone can use a vertical climber. It’s great for all fitness levels, so there’s no way to mess it up. Whether you’re a beginner or an athlete, vertical climbers can be adjusted to fit all your fitness needs.

If you’re looking for something a little easier on the body and joints than a treadmill, vertical climbers are the way to go. They offer a low-impact workout that makes it great even for people with joint pain or back issues. However, while they are easy on the joints, don’t think you aren’t going to have to work. The workouts aren’t exactly as easy as walking or running on a treadmill.

The advantage to a vertical climber is that they offer a great workout in half the time. Whether you want to build muscle or lose weight, this is a great option to consider. If you go with a machine that has extra resistance bands, get ready for an even tougher workout. You can control the intensity and resistance making your workout even more intense. You’ll find that adjusting the intensity can give you workouts that will even rival CrossFit workouts.

If you’re just starting your fitness journey, don’t worry. This is great for all fitness levels even if you aren’t built like the Rock. You choose your adventure and intensity levels for you making it a completely personalized workout routine.

What to Look for In Your Vertical Climber Search

For those of you new to vertical climbing, it can seem like a rather daunting task to go out and buy one. There are so many to choose from each one offering its own set of benefits aimed at the user. Here are a few features to consider when you begin shopping.

Quality

This is a given, but some people will skimp on quality to save a buck. Climbing machines should be sturdy as there is a lot of movement going on. You want to be able to go fast without hearing the machine rattle or become wobbly. Consider machines that have variable resistance as this allows for higher-level cardio and strength training.

Technology

You’ll find that with newer machines there is integrated technology to help make your session as easy as possible. Some offer built-in screens that offer virtual training when you download the app. You can follow workouts this way and monitor your heart rate and more. For some people, the more tech the better. Beginners typically learn this way as it offers them more resources and help getting started.

Adjustability

You want to make sure the vertical climber you get is adjustable, so you can adjust it to your stature and level of workout. Having an adjustable height is going to help you with your workouts. Variable resistance is another great feature to consider. It’ll allow for higher-level cardio exercises allowing you to achieve results faster.

Size

The vertical design these machines offer is one of its biggest benefits. It takes up little floor space which is great for smaller apartments or houses. However, still, measure to make sure it’s not going to be a cramped fit. You might need as much as 8 feet vertically to fit your climber.

If you’re new to vertical climbing machines, you might feel they are more complicated than they truly are. Keep in mind that the newer the climber the more advanced they are. Some even integrate virtual training videos to help enhance the workout.

Stability

Having a foldable workout machine can save a ton of space. But if they are rickety you might end up taking a spill mid-climb. Having a sturdy frame, especially one made from aluminum, ensures your machine is built to last. These machines also offer a wider base, and this helps them withstand climbing forces.

Glides Smooth

If your climber is sticky, that’s a big no-no. Models that sound like road graders are also a no-go. When looking for a vertical climber, make sure that the machine not only glides well but will remain quiet while in use. There shouldn’t be too much noise coming from it. The best part is there is minimal maintenance needed for these types of machines.

Price

You’ll find vertical climbers come in several different price ranges. The sturdier ones can run you a few thousand dollars. Keep in mind though, these models are equipped with WiFi capabilities and Bluetooth. This can help keep track of your workouts for several days and you can also compete with other users.

However, if you are on a budget, make sure you research vertical climbers and ensure there’s a wide base. There are several models available that are more within your price range. Make sure you look at a model’s track record and reviews to help you choose what’s best for you.

Handle and Step Height Adjustability

While being able to adjust the step height or handle adjustability isn’t necessary, they can make your climb a lot more comfortable. Height settings can be used to challenge your body more and can intensify your workouts.

Are Vertical Climbers Worth It?

Most everyone has heard of a vertical climber. However, hearing about them and knowing what they are and how to use them is something completely different. You might be wondering if a vertical climber is worth it and beneficial at all.

When people hit the gym, a vertical climber is typically on their mind as their first go-to. That’s because not many people understand the benefits it can have. Vertical climbers are a great piece of equipment to benefit from.

Burns More Calories

When you use a vertical climber, you are working out your entire body. Metabolism increases, so you work more muscle groups simultaneously. This means you burn more calories in half the time. Using a vertical climber for as little as 30 minutes a day will show results in little to no time.

Convenient

Vertical climbers are great space savers. With a compact design, they are easy to assemble and when you are done you can easily fold them away. Some can even fit in spaces as small as a closet. They even fit under the bed leaving them out of sight unless you are using them.

Pushes Your Limits

If you’re looking for something to challenge your fitness level, look no further. Vertical climbers are not easy to do as most people think. If you are new to using one, start slow as a few minutes can wear you out.

Over time, you’ll find yourself doing more. The difficulty can be increased making each session more challenging. There are also pre-programmed routines on most of them that you can use.

In short, vertical climbers are a great piece of equipment to utilize to your benefit. If you’re looking for a machine that can work out your entire body, vertical climbers are a surefire way to achieve maximum results in less time.

Do Vertical Climbers Build Muscle?

Many people also wonder if a vertical climber can tone and build muscle. In short, yes. While the arms will typically get the hardest workout, other upper body muscles that benefit from this machine include:

  • Forearms
  • Triceps and biceps
  • Chest
  • Upper and lower back
  • Abs
  • Obliques

A vertical climber will challenge multiple upper body muscles allowing you to gain muscle and strength over time. It can also help improve posture especially for those who sit in a chair all day.

Just as much as your upper body needs attention, your lower body does as well. Lower body strength is important as it’s the base of support for walking, jumping, running, etc.

But the great news is that with a vertical climber you can either decrease or increase resistance levels. This helps you target certain muscles. Some of the muscles you’ll work out include:

  • Legs
  • Thighs
  • Back
  • Glutes
  • Core
  • And more!

Every muscle gets a piece of the action when you use a vertical climber for working out. These types of machines are hands down one of the most versatile on the market. Weight loss is easier to achieve as this machine gives you a whole-body cardio workout.

How Long Should You Use the Maxi Climber?

There are several vertical climbers on the market these days. Unlike some of the other complicated ones available, the Maxi Climber is not only easy to use but easy to figure out.

Once it’s set up, simply place your feet in the pedals and grab onto the handles. The height may need to be adjusted to fit you more comfortably. All you do is pretend you are climbing rocks. Keep in mind if you are new to this type of workout, it may take some time to figure out.

The moving comes a lot easier than you might think. If done correctly, you’ll find the Maxi Climber moves smoothly and there will be some resistance. If it burns too much, decrease the amount of resistance at first.

It’s important to keep your hands and feet moving in a synchronized movement to avoid any difficulty or injury. Once you feel muscles burning all over, you’ll know you are getting an excellent workout.

You might be wondering how long you should workout on the Maxi Climber though.

For a basic workout routine, it’s recommended to start with 10 minutes. While this may not seem like a lot of time, the intensity of the workout will wear you down at first. Your heart rate will increase, and you’ll begin seeing results faster than with other workout machines.

As you begin getting more used to the machine, you’ll notice you can increase the resistance as well as the amount of time you are working out. Adjust the time you workout as you see fit and the same with resistance. It’s recommended to start slow until your body is used to the movement and intensity.

Do Vertical Climbers Help You Lose Weight?

Vertical climbers are a great machine to give you an all-over cardio workout. In turn, your metabolism burns calories a lot faster than with other workout equipment. Some studies have been done showing that you can burn anywhere from 300-800 calories in a 30-minute session on your vertical climber!

You can do low-impact workouts which is great for people who have joint or back problems. You can also choose a total body workout that will focus more on cardio workouts allowing you to work out your back, core, shoulders, arms, butt, and more! Because you are doing both cardio and strength training in one machine, losing weight is a lot easier. You won’t have to spend hours upon hours at the gym.

Because a vertical climber boosts metabolism, you burn more calories leading to weight loss. A mere 5 minutes of working out on a vertical climber can make you feel as if you spent all day climbing the side of a mountain. You can stay fit and in great shape when you use a vertical climber.

Does the Maxi Climber Help Lose Belly Fat?

Stomach fat can be one of the trickiest parts of the body to lose or tighten up. That’s because the foods we eat play a huge role. We spend most of our days eating fast food, sugary drinks, carbs, etc. Everyday lives don’t always allow for the best eating especially after a long day at the office. Nobody wants to come home and cook, so it becomes easier to order out.

The only way to lose belly fat is to eat less of the bad foods and focus more on healthy eating which consists of low fat and low carb foods. In conjunction with a well-balanced diet, the Maxi Climber can help target the core muscles allowing you to tighten up and shrink that trouble area.

How Effective are Vertical Climbers?

If you are new to vertical climbers, you are missing out on a great workout and time saver in the end. This machine is designed to build and strengthen muscle while giving you an all-over cardio workout. You’ll find you are losing excess weight you may have been struggling with as well. The end result? A great-looking body and structure.

One of the best and most effective aspects of a vertical climber is it’s all based on your weight. You can alter the resistance and the difficulty by moving faster and changing the range of moti0on you are using. It might be difficult in the beginning, but the more you work out the easier it becomes. People are turning in their gym memberships and investing in a vertical climber for its effectiveness.

On top of that, it’s easy to store making working out in the comfort of your own home a lot easier. Some vertical climbers come with pre-programmed routines allowing you to get the best workout. You’ll find your overall body strength is increasing as is your overall physical appearance.

Is MaxiClimber Loud?

As with all workout machines, they all can make some level of noise. This can depend on the type of machine as well as the size. Does it have a motor? Is it battery-operated or weight-based? With the Maxi Climber though, you will notice a little bit of noise. The noisiest part is the “arms” as they move up and back down. The plastic rollers will strike the rubber cap on the bottom, and this can make a banging noise. While it’s not too terrible, it can be somewhat of a nuisance.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Maxi Climber?

The Maxi Climber does have a maximum weight of 240 pounds. There are reviews of people who are heavier using it, but it is not exactly safe to try at home. There are different versions of the Maxi Climber. For instance, the Maxi Climber XL has a weight limit of 300 pounds.

How Often Should I Use My Vertical Climber?

Consistency is key regarding exercise. You want to use your vertical climber regularly, no matter how long each session is. Using any type of exercise machine sporadically won’t deliver results as you want. This is because you aren’t working out all major muscle groups and therefore your body isn’t burning as many calories as you are taking in. You should aim for three times a week which is recommended. They don’t have to be the same three days every week, you can alternate as you need. Just make sure you are consistently using it.

Try to leave a day in between each day you exercise. This can mean using it every other day as opposed to 2 or 3 days in a row. By giving yourself a day off in between, you are giving your muscles and body a day of recovery and healing. You’ll also be burning more calories over a period of time as opposed to all at one time. This allows for balance.

You might notice that in the beginning your body is sore and this is because you are probably using muscles you haven’t used in a while. Your body simply needs time to adjust. Leaving a day or two in between allows you to recuperate.

Spreading out your workouts also means you can account for any extra calories on your days off.

You’ll also be able to stay motivated if you use it regularly. The more you do it, the easier it will get as with any exercise. Regular use allows you to master the climber and this makes you want to continue using the machine.

Tips to Succeed with Your Vertical Climber

Vertical climbers are a great workout. One session on a vertical climber burns more calories than a treadmill would. Here are some pointers to keep in mind to help you succeed.

Put in As Much Effort as You Can

If you are a beginner, you can start at a mere 10 minutes 3 days a week. This will help get your body used to the exercise allowing you to begin working up resistance and time spent on it. Make sure you are putting in as much effort s you can as this will help you develop an exercise routine.

If you begin with slacking off, you become lazy throughout your routine. This means results are not what you wanted or expected. For those who are not used to exercising, 10 minutes might be a bit difficult. For the first week or few sessions, work as long as you can and slowly increase.

Incorporate More Workout Sessions

Consider doing your workouts while doing something else like catching up on podcasts. This allows you to get both things done at once, so you are feeling more productive. If you can’t incorporate more sessions each week, consider just adding more time to the sessions you do already.

Get Some Interval Training In

Using interval training can be a great way to burn more calories. Rather than completing your workout at a regular pace, consider amping it up and do some high-speed moving for a few minutes and then decrease back to a regular pace. Doing this as often as you can during a workout can get you a shorter workout that has targeted all muscle groups.

Interval training will also help make your workouts less boring and since you are required to use more energy, you will find that you are more focused on what you’re doing.

Vertical climbers come with numerous benefits and advantages. There are so many models to choose from allowing you to find what’s going to work for you and your personal needs and goals that you have in mind.