Stair Steppers: Reviews

We found good owner reviews for the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper 40-0069, a portable stepper with handlebars and a display screen. Many owners are impressed with the hard workout they get from such an inexpensive… machine. This is also one of the only budget stair steppers that has adjustable resistance. However, some users complain that it feels flimsy -- a common complaint for steppers in this category. Still, user reviews show that this budget model is a good choice for a space-saving stair stepper.

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There aren't many stair steppers in the mid-range category, but the NordicTrack MTN 740 Stepper is a well-reviewed choice for consumers looking for a stair stepper under $1,000. Frequent exercisers may enjoy the many… features, like a built-in fan, adjustable resistance and heart-rate monitor, which are not typically found on budget models. One reviewer was unimpressed with the short warranty and found this machine to be too flimsy. On the other hand, a tester for the Los Angeles Times found it to be quite sturdy for an inexpensive machine. Overall, this stair stepper is a good choice for the frequent exerciser who isn't ready to make the investment in a club-quality stepper.

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If you are looking for something new and different, look no further than the NordicTrack FreeMotion s5.6. This hybrid machine combines the stepping action of a traditional stair stepper with the stride of an elliptical… trainer. With positive reviews from consumers and experts alike, the FreeMotion s5.6 appears to be a good choice for varied and intense workouts. It receives the Best New Design award from former fitness executive Fred Waters and attracts numerous compliments from consumers on NordicTrack.com. However, if you prefer a quiet machine, this may not be the stepper for you -- multiple reviewers note that the FreeMotion s5.6 is noisy. Still, this modestly priced machine is well reviewed and may give you a more varied workout than a traditional stair stepper.

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