Discussion: so it didn't really engage ...

so it didn't really engage upper body/core/arms that much?

not that I noticed. That said, I kept my hands on the side rails most of the time. Perhaps, depending on height, you could engage upper body by reaching for the rungs above your head, but my shoulders were about level with where the rungs come out at the top. No reaching involved. Does require some coordination though. That will take some time to build up muscle memory.

Sounds like the model they have is too small. Seems like you ought to be able to reach up for the rungs.

there's only one size. maybe if i shorten the leash.

Ha - that's really funny. It definitely feels like it engages my arms, but then I'm 5'4" and have little T-Rex arms. Maybe that has something to do with it.

Seriously, make sure the leash is short enough so that the brake doesn't engage. Doesn't sound like that was your issue though. I feel like the round rungs are good for the hands but a little weird on the feet. I've never tried the side rails - will do that next time.

Yeah, I will lengthen the leash a bit and see what happens. At 95 rungs per minute I felt like my arms were just flailing. Agree that the round is odd for the feet, but I never missed or slipped.