When considering the best machine to achieve a full-body workout at home, most people don’t even consider a vertical climber. However, vertical climbers knock out treadmills, rowing machines, and bikes for a full-body cardio machine.
We are taking a look at one of the most popular makers of vertical climbers and for these MaxiClimber reviews, we assess the company and its products, in particular, their most prominent models the Classic and the XL.
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The MaxiClimber Sport was like the Classic but with resistance. The resistance mechanism was using bands (the XL 2000 has a hydraulic system) but is currently unavailable. Whether by design or just out of stock I don’t know.
The MaxiClimber XL 1000 is now a retired product. It was upgraded to the 2000 after problems with pedals and other minor issues.
So that leaves us with 2 MaxiClimber models.
Are either the MaxiClimber Classic or the MaxiClimber XL worthy of the high profile that the company has gained through its promotions? We’ll find out with our MaxiClimber Reviews.
Contents
Things to Consider Before Buying a MaxiClimber
MaxiClimber is one of the more recognizable names in fitness machines on the market not hindered by the early promotions on TV with the help of some familiar stars.
When looking for a piece of exercise equipment for the home we want something reliable, relatively compact and good value for money.
We want a machine that gives multiple levels of workout options and workout intensity. A vertical climber certainly fits the bill and we think the MaxiClimber XL 2000 is a great choice.
A vertical climber like the MaxiClimber helps you burn calories, control your weight, and tone your muscles all in the privacy of your home..
This is all achieved with very little impact on joints or muscles as the mountain climbing activity is designed so that both hands and feet are firmly in place on handles and steps.
Before you buy a MaxiClimber, you should take into consideration what you want out of your workout machine. If you want something easy to store, easy to set up, and safe for almost anyone to use, the MaxiClimber machine may be ideal for you.
Getting Fit At Home
This May Be What You Want From A New Piece Of Fitness Equipment…
- Provides a good workout for both cardio and strength
- Easily stored – and unfolded
- Small footprint
- Reliable and durable – doesn’t break after a week
- Multiple users – can be adjusted for others
- Reasonably priced – doesn’t break the bank
The MaxiClimber Reviews
The MaxiClimber machines take some of the aspects of a stair stepper and combine it with a core-activating workout and incline interval training. The models give you the ability to work on multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
The biceps and tricep arm muscle groups can be targeted separately depending on whether you hold the handles with the palm facing down (triceps) or up (biceps).
Alternatively, a more passive exercise for the arms could be adopted with the use of the stationary handles although the shoulder muscles and minor pectorals get engaged.
A smaller, but significant change can be made on the leg muscles by adjusting the height or by changing the length of stride from baby steps to big strides.
MaxiClimber XL-2000 or MaxiClimber Classic?
The way you use the 2 models of MaxiClimbers is the same. They both provide a great all-body exercise including cardio and strength.
The difference between the two is the XL-2000 has a hydraulic 12-level resistance system which adds another dimension to the workout. The Classic doesn’t have any system and the resistance comes naturally from gravity. The gravity you are fighting against as you move against your bodyweight.
Which, in my case at least, is not to be sniffed at.
It doesn’t mean that the lack of inbuilt resistance is negative. In fact, for more intense cardio workouts the machine reliant on your own body weight alone is fine.
However, for the strength training as well as cardio you’ll want some added resistance.
Unlike the MaxiClimber Classic, the XL model is made of an aluminum frame that is able to withstand high levels of use and impact.
And the quality of the build of each machine is the big differentiator. After some durability issues, the MaxiClimber XL-2000 has been totally redesigned and revamped. A different beast to the original Classic.
The MaxiClimber Classic still contains some weak design points like the small pedals, the plastic rollers which tend to wear quite quickly and the frame which is not sturdy enough.
So then there is the price and the value. Well the MaxiClimber Classic is around half the price of the XL 2000 but the latter is still the better value.
Neither model may be suited for anyone who is seriously cardiovascularly unfit especially the Classic. That might sound surprising but there is no resistance to lean on.
If you do start out a fitness journey on a MaxiClimber, get the XL, begin with short bouts regularly, small steps and use a little resistance.
Pros
- Users can exercise at their maximum stride, unlike with some other vertical climbers
- It is easy to assemble and take apart
- The XL model has twelve different workout levels to choose from
- Adjustable height levels
- You get a full-body workout with one machine
Cons
- The classic model has no resistance; it is bodyweight only
- The weight limit is 240 pounds for the Classic (300 for the XT)
- It’s difficult viewing the LCD screen while using the machine in some positions
- Machine heavily moving parts causes friction and wear over time especially the Classic
Features and Benefits
As a vertical climber machine, the MaxiClimber models offer users a lot of benefits and has a few unique features that separate it from the rest of the fitness equipment market.
Weight Control
Keeping weight under control is something that many people struggle with. If you are looking for a way to shed a few extra pounds, the MaxiClimbers will certainly help. Most of the resistance comes from your own body weight, so you are in charge of how hard you push.
The XL model has twelve resistance levels and the Classic doesn’t have any.
Though the machine helps you use your own body to lose weight, it is fundamentally not an “easy workout” – if there is such a thing. Like all forms of exercise, you will only reap the benefits of the amount of work you put in.
Set Up is Easy
For the most part, the MaxiClimber comes pre-assembled and does not require you to purchase additional pieces. The XL and Classic models come 90% assembled in the box. You do not need to be a master with tools to put the machine together, and it should only take a few minutes.
You’ll need to take out the pre-existing screws and replace and tighten them when the pieces are connected.
If for some reason, you have a hard time with the remaining 10% of work, MaxiClimbers come with instructions and online videos for additional guidance.
Simple Storage
One drawback of most pieces of home-based fitness equipment is that they are bulky, heavy, and take up a lot of space. MaxiClimbers are lightweight and very easy to store. When you are not using it, you can easily fold it up and keep it under a bed, couch, or behind a door.
MaxiClimbers fold very easily and are compact, so they are especially ideal for those who live in smaller spaces like condos and apartments.
Safety
A MaxiClimber is a safe product for most people to use. The machines are supposed to require low impact, making them safe to use without causing strain to your knees and hips. MaxiClimbers also have non-stick grips to prevent your hands and feet from accidentally slipping during your workout as you become fatigued.
There are weight limits for the MaxClimbers of 240 and 300 pounds on the Classic and XL models respectively.
After the machine is mounted, it may seem obvious, but don’t lean back or sideways otherwise, you may topple over.
If you have balance concerns or feel unstable it might be worth considering something a little more firmly rooted like an exercise bike instead.
Budget-Friendly
Vertical climbers and especially the MaxiClimber are very affordable. You can pay a lot for vertical climbers although it’s often the case that you get what you pay for.
Nonetheless, MaxiClimbers offer a good value price and high reliability. Other pieces of in-home gym equipment can cost a lot of money, so this is a great alternative.
Buying a MaxiClimber is comparable to buying an all-in-one workout machine. Essentially, when you buy one, you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck.
Alternatives
Though the MaxiClimber is a fantastic home workout solution, it is not the only option out there.
VersaClimber
The VersaClimber is a more expensive but higher quality option in terms of vertical climbers. Though it appears to offer the same features as a MaxiClimber, the VersaClimber is a better build all round.
It is equipped with swivel footpads, multiple adjustable pedal settings, better grip quality, velcro foot straps, and provides a more natural movement.
The Versaclimber was the original patented vertical climber machine (and my favorite).
And the Versaclimber is made in the USA with 90% of the materials used sourced locally.
You are more likely to achieve an intense workout with the VersaClimber than you are MaxiClimbers.
VersaClimbers offer various step heights and programs to choose from to constantly mix up your workouts. You can also track your workout more effectively with an easier-to-see display screen.
The biggest drawback is the price. VersaClimbers are much more expensive than MaxiClimbers and are therefore recommended for more serious fitness enthusiasts. However, if the VersaClimber sounds more appealing to you, check out the available options.
The Ancheer Vertical Climber
Though both the MaxiClimber XL 2000 and VersaClimber are fantastic options, one is not cheap and the other is expensive. So maybe consider The Ancheer vertical climber. This is even (currently) cheaper than the MaxiClimber Classic and still has a little quality about it.
With cheaper models, the main issue is that they tend to fall apart faster. This is one of many copies of the MaxiClimber that have come onto the market, many of which are made by names with no “fitness equipment pedigree” so durability and support are often an issue.
Ancheer, however, are around the top of this pile of fitness machine makers and have done a good job with their vertical climber.
It’s, of course, very similar to the MaxiClimber Classic. It is effortless to store and assemble. It has some of the usual features. A basic readout of time, speed, and distance – it has calories burned too, but I would ignore that.
The supported weight is 350 lbs which is excellent but be careful is all I’m saying.
5 different height levels make it suitable for anyone up to around 6′ 3″ and the different heights can be used to change the muscles targeted when working out.
MaxiClimber Reviews – Final Thoughts
With home-based workouts growing in popularity, consumers need options that cater for the entire body. Vertical climbers do just that.
Although not the original, the MaxiClimber XL-2000 is one of the best vertical climbers on the market for those who want an affordable, safe, and low-impact/high-intensity workout.
I wouldn’t bother with the original MaxiClimber Classic. After the “as seen on TV” advertising the company went back to the drawing board and eventually came up with the XL 2000, a far better design.
The whole frame was changed to a much more durable lightweight aluminum frame and the pulleys and roller system along with the pedals were redesigned after lessons learned from previous product issues.
We have gone into some depth with a comparison of the MaxiClimber and the Versaclimber, the original vertical climber.
Is the vertical climber capable of not swaying when I exercise on it, or do I need to bolt it down? By the way, this is a fantastic educational post that is a pleasure to read.
No. The better vertical climber’s are sturdy enough and the action of your body cancels out any excess lateral movement.
I’m glad you enjoyed the article.