Stair Steppers - How Stair Climbing Changes Everything

Many individuals advocate the use of the stairs instead of the elevator to combine the benefits of exercise with the benefits of conserving the environment in your own little way.  And so, you walk up the stairs to the 10^th floor on weekdays but during weekends at home, stair steppers are the better choice. You will then be able to avail of the health benefits of stair climbing even your house is just a one-story bungalow. 

How It Works

A stair stepper works provides for a cardiovascular workout through the use of independent foot pedals that can be pushed up and down.  Many models also imitate the action of climbing a rotating staircase although these types are usually more expensive.  Your choice often depends on the budget available for the machine especially as both types offer almost the same benefits. 

For first-time users, a stair stepper may take practice because of its mechanical action.  Just imagine yourself going up and down the stairs except that you are neither going up nor down floors and you should get the hang of it.  When used the right ways, stair steppers can add variety to the usual treadmill workout. 

How It Benefits

In recent years, the sales of steppers have been said to go down in favor of elliptical machines.  But this is insufficient reason not to consider the purchase of a stair steeper either especially when you consider the benefits. 

For one thing, a stair stepper offering similar cardiovascular benefits as an elliptical machine is more affordable.  You will then be able to purchase other gym equipment with the price difference.  For another thing, a stair stepper provides for low-impact workout that suits many individuals just fine.  This is especially true for people with issues regarding their lower back like pregnant women.

Truly, like other pieces of gym equipment, stair steppers are beneficial for the simple reason that these machine provide for opportunities to exercise with varying resistance levels.  The trick is in proper use, of which the most important tips include adopting an erect posture, setting the resistance levels to comfortable levels at first and consulting with a fitness expert for interval training methods. 

How to Choose

Nowadays, you can choose from two types of steppers - the commercial and the mini.  As can be expected, the commercial types are bigger than the minis since each one caters to a specific set of clientele.  If you are buying for the home only, we suggest going for the mini versions as these occupy less space on the floor and on the pocket without sacrificing quality. 

No matter the final choice amongst the many brands and models of steppers, the qualities that you must look for are basically similar.  These qualities include stability through its wide and heavy base; flat pedals that automatically level themselves; and adjustable resistance levels to provide for variety in workouts. 

Better yet, we suggest actually using the stair steppers in the stores, most of which have sample units for their customers.  Then, when you have made your choice, you can then browse through the Internet for similar models, often at affordable prices.