Choosing a stair stepper

The first step in selecting a stair stepper is evaluating your fitness goals. If you are an occasional exerciser looking for a stepper you can use a few times a week, a small budget or mini stepper may meet your needs, although they won't provide a very intense or varied workout. Long-term durability is also an issue. Serious exercisers and those seeking an intense workout will want to look for a commercial-quality stair stepper, but these models typically cost more than $3,000. Experts say you should try out equipment in person before buying if you can. Regardless of the type of stepper you choose, keep the following in mind when evaluating different models:

  • Stability is key. Stair steppers with a wider, heavier base feel the most secure, but these models are also more expensive and take up more floor space. Mini steppers usually lack handlebars, so some users find it difficult to keep their balance.
  • Look for self-leveling flat pedals. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends stair steppers that have self-leveling flat pedals, which keep your feet parallel to the floor while you step. Pedals positioned on an incline may cause improper posture during your workout.
  • Noise is a factor. Users report that most stair steppers are reasonably quiet. However, we saw many complaints that budget stair steppers develop annoying squeaks and rattles after several months of use.
  • Heart-rate monitors aren't always included. Many stair steppers include a heart-rate monitor, since exercisers may want to keep tabs on their heart rate while working out. Most of the budget and mini steppers do not have heart-rate monitors, but this is typically a standard feature on club-quality models.
  • The upper-body workout is questionable. Some stair steppers include handlebars or resistance bands that allow a simultaneous upper-body workout. However, we saw lots of complaints -- especially about the resistance bands -- that these features don't provide a very good upper-body workout.
  • Workout programs keep things interesting. Look for a variety of programs, including hill, heart rate and custom workouts. Steppers with multiple programs can give you a more varied workout.
  • Adjustable resistance levels are also important. Many high-quality stair steppers offer adjustable resistance so you can increase the intensity of your workout as your fitness improves. Stair steppers without varying resistance levels may leave you feeling bored or unchallenged once your body adapts to the work.
  • Check your ceiling height. Some stair steppers require 8- or 10-foot ceilings, so make sure your space can accommodate these machines before you buy.

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