Stepper machine buyers guide
There is a vast range of exercise machines and fitness equipment available to buy for your home gym, each of them with their own health benefits. The stepper machine is a great choice as it can give you an effective cardio workout whilst toning your lower body muscles including your legs, glutes, hips and thighs!
As they provide a low impact workout, it doesn’t matter if you are a beginner just starting your fitness journey or a fitness enthusiast, stepper machines are a practical way to burn calories, lose weight and strengthen your muscles. Anyone who can climb some steps, can use a stepper.
Here we will take a look at some of our best steppers and the features to keep in mind during your search.
back to menu ↑What are the best steppers?
Here we will take a look at our best steppers from the hundreds of stepper reviews that we have researched and analysed in great detail.
back to menu ↑How to choose the best stepper machine for you
If you are in the market for a brand-new stepper, there are a few key features that you will want to look out for. Nearly all budget steppers will be sufficient enough for a good workout. However, if you are an avid gym goer, you might want to look for a premium stepper machine with more advanced features.
back to menu ↑Size
One of the first things you will need to check is the size of the stepper machine. If the stepper won’t fit within your allocated home gym space, then you can rule it out. Thankfully, the majority of steppers are very compact and therefore can suit a range of different spaces throughout your home.
It is worth thinking about how easy the stepper will be to move around and store when not in use. The frequency of use and location can help determine how important the size is to you. If you plan on using it often then you will probably want something that will not get in your way. If you don’t plan on using it that frequently, you may want a stepper that can easily be stored.
back to menu ↑Weight & Height
When shopping for a stepper, you will see that they can cater to a range of different shapes and sizes. You should make sure that the stepper is suitable for the weight and height of anyone who will be using it. Generally speaking, the more weight that a stepper machine can hold, the more stable it will feel when in use.
back to menu ↑Physical Limitations
If you have any previous or existing injuries, disabilities or you are in rehabilitation, you may need a specialist stepper which can accommodate your specific needs.
back to menu ↑Comfort
One of the most important things to be wary of is how comfortable the stepper machine is when being used. If it isn’t comfortable enough, you will probably try to avoid using it! The best steppers should provide you with optimal comfort so that you can enjoy your exercise sessions. The size and grip of the steps along with any handles are some of the things to consider when it comes to comfort.
back to menu ↑Resistance
Each stepper will have different levels of resistance. Some will have more than others. If you are a just looking for a casual step workout, any amount of resistance should suffice. However, if you want something more intense, then you should keep an eye out for a stepper that supports a greater range of resistance. Consider how your fitness levels may improve over time and if you should look to future proof the stepper in terms of how much resistance it offers.
back to menu ↑Safety
It is important to check if there are any safety features incorporated into the stepper. These can help prevent any accidents or injuries, especially if you are going to be putting in a lot of effort.
back to menu ↑Display Monitor
The best stepper machines can include a computer display where you can track all of your workout data such as calories burned, number of steps, time elapsed and speed. If there are any particular statistics that you require, make sure they are available on the monitor.
The more advanced users may want to check to see if the stepper is compatible with any third-party fitness apps or devices. Other features to look out for include Bluetooth, ANT+ and wireless connectivity.
back to menu ↑Budget
Once you have narrowed down the stepper features that you require, you can further filter your available options by price. Thankfully, there are a range of steppers to suit all budgets. You do not need to pay over the top for features that you won’t use, but spending that little bit extra can help ensure that you get a quality-built stepper that can stand the test of time.
back to menu ↑Other Key Features
In addition to the above, there are a few other things to keep an eye out for when looking for the best steppers, this includes;
- Are there any pulse sensors for tracking your heart rate?
- Is there anywhere you keep your water bottle and smart phone or tablet?
- How easy is the stepper to assemble and are instructions included?
- Does it come with a warranty and what does it cover?
- How good is the customer support and stepper reviews?
- Is there any protection to prevent your floor from damage?
Types of steppers
There are various different stepper machines available to buy. Whilst each of them replicates walking upstairs, some have other additional benefits. Here we will take a quick look at them;
back to menu ↑Mini Stepper Machines
These are the smaller compact steppers which are a great option if you have limited space. They are effectively just two pedals that allow you to mimic the motion of climbing steps.
back to menu ↑Side Steppers
Side steppers have the benefit of allowing you to step up and down and side to side. This additional range of motion can be a great way to work your core and thighs.
back to menu ↑Twist Steppers
Twist steppers allow you to perform a twisting motion that can help you to target your abdominals and obliques, thus giving you a great core workout in addition to your legs.
back to menu ↑Elliptical Steppers
Elliptical steppers come with moveable arm handles which allows you to simultaneously train your upper body – arms, shoulders, back and chest. They are also useful for those who require more stability whilst they exercise.
back to menu ↑Step Mills
Step mills are those larger step machines that you often see in commercial gyms. They almost look like a miniature escalator!
back to menu ↑Benefits of stepper machines
It goes without saying that any form of exercise is good for us. The great thing about stepper machines is that they are suitable for users of all experience levels as they provide a low impact yet sufficient cardio workout that can also help strengthen your muscles. Here we will take a brief look at some of the main advantages;
- Improve cardiovascular performance
- Increase muscle strength and stamina
- Improve your mood and boost mental health
- Burn calories and lose weight
- Exercise from the comfort of your own home
- Steppers are compact so don’t require much space
- Save cost on gym memberships
Tips for using your stepper machine
A stepper can be a great way to introduce yourself into the fitness world, all from the privacy and comfort of your own home. Before you get started, here are a few tips to help you get the best stepper machine experience;
- Warm up and down for a few minutes
- Take it slowly to begin with
- Increase difficulty as your fitness improves
- Set realistic goals and challenge yourself
- Listen to music for motivation
- Stay hydrated throughout your workout
- Keep the stepper in a location you are likely to use it
- Stop exercising if you feel any pain
Conclusion
Stepper machines simulate the action of walking up a flight of stairs. This type of movement provides a great way to burn calories and train the lower body muscles. In addition to this, the premium steppers also include resistances bands or moving handles which can help you to tone your upper body muscles and core at the same time.
Whatever option you choose, stepper machines help to give you a low impact aerobic workout and build strength, depending on the resistance levels you use. The more resistance there is available on the stepper, the greater workout variety you have. They provide an excellent cardio workout which can assist with your weight loss goals, especially when used alongside a balanced diet.
Hopefully this guide will help you find the best stepper for your home gym!
Happy stepping!
Rich
Rich is an avid bodybuilder who has dedicated over 20 years of his life to the sport. He has a strong passion for health and fitness, living a clean lifestyle with a commitment to helping others educate themselves and fulfil their true potential.
