NordicTrack MTN 740 Stepper

March 2009. Reviews say the NordicTrack MTN 740 Stepper is a solid choice if you want a full-size stair stepper. The MTN 740 sets itself apart from budget steppers with its built-in fans and heart-rate monitor. The display helps you keep track of your progress with readouts for time, calories, speed, steps and heart rate. The NordicTrack stepper includes four pre-programmed workouts and is iFit compatible, which allows users to download workout programs from the Internet or from memory cards. Reviewers disagree, however, about its sturdiness. One reviewer says the frame is too flimsy, but another tester is impressed with the frame's build quality. For those on a budget, reviewers recommend the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper 40-0069 (*est. $100), although it has fewer features and is really a mini stepper.

The best source of information on the NordicTrack MTN 740 Stepper comes from news outlets and fitness websites. Roy Wallack tests three steppers for the Los Angeles Times, including the NordicTrack model, but his review is somewhat outdated. ConsumerGuide.com also reviews the NordicTrack MTN 740 Stepper, although they don't provide comparisons with other models. One user at Buzzillions.com gives a long-term user review.