Reviews Gym Equipment Gym Machines

9 Best Stair Stepper Machines in 2024

Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy (21 years of Oly Lifting experience)

A stair stepper machine can take your cardio training to the next level. It will boost your aerobic and lower-body strength, thus helping with posture, stability, and overall functional fitness.

We list the best stair stepper machines up for grabs. Whether seeking to add challenging or low-impact workouts, there are suitable options for all training modalities and budget categories.

Small Steps towards your Dream Shape! 

Our team, consisting of certified experts, coaches, and professional athletes, has conducted extensive tests on 30 stair stepper machines to deliver you 9 of their top picks. The stair steppers were evaluated against 6 key metrics, with our team investing over 500 hours in testing them. 

Besides our hands-on evaluation, we’ve also gone through and analyzed hundreds of online customer reviews. We constantly revise our list, so feel free to leave a comment, share your experiences, and join the dialogue!

Best Stair Stepper Machines

Top 9 Best Stair Stepper Machines Reviewed

  1. SPORTSROYALS Stair Stepper Workout Machine – Top Pick
  2. SUNNY HEALTH & FITNESS Stepper Exercise Machine – Runner-Up
  3. BALANCEFROM Adjustable Stepper – Budget Pick
  4. SUNNY HEALTH & FITNESS Mini Stepper – Best with Resistance Bands
  5. BODY POWER 2-in-1 StepTrac – Best with Elliptical
  6. CUBII JR1 Under-Desk Elliptical – Best Seated
  7. SUNNY HEALTH & FITNESS Pink Stepper Machine – Best Portable/Mini
  8. VERSACLIMBER H/HP – Best Alternative
  9. STAIRMASTER SM3 – Best Stepmill for Home
ProductTotalAdjustabilityDurabilityMonitor FunctionalityPortabilityMulti FunctionalityValue for Money
Sportsroyals58910109.59.510
SF Stepper Machine57109.5109.5810
Balance From56.59.59910910
SF Mini Stepper56.59.59.591099.5
Body Power56109.59.58.5108.5
Cubii559.51091088.5
SF Portable Mini54.59991089.5
Versa Climber54101088108
Stairmaster549.59.510898

1. SPORTSROYALS Stair Stepper Workout Machine – Top Pick

Sportsroyals Stair Stepper

The brand’s two decades of experience reflects in the quality of its products. Sportsroyals has become a benchmark in the calisthenics and strength training equipment industry.

  • Type/Model: Twist-Action Stepper
  • Item Weight: 28 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 330 lbs
  • Color Palette: Black/Gray
  • Product Dimensions: 10.24” x 3.15” x 7.09”
  • Display: Time, Distance, Calories, Step Count, Total Count
  • Workout Programs: None
  • Additional Features: Handlebars, Removable Resistance Bands, Hydraulic Drive System

The main platform is made of 2 mm-thick, powder-coated steel. Unlike typical home stair steppers, it doesn’t use a cable pulley. Instead, a hydraulic drive system with a V-shaped lever enhances its smoothness and stability.

The oversized footplates can accommodate all shoe sizes. Soft rubber and silicone ensure a comfortable workout experience. Also, their 38-degree twist action is gentler on your joints. There are shock-absorbing cushions alongside a hydraulic pump and anti-skid foot pads. Meanwhile, this stepper machine is packed with thoughtful features for your safety and strength.

SPORTSROYALS Stair Stepper Workout Machine
photo by briansmithnyc

You can add resistance bands for upper-body exercises. A U-shaped handlebar is wrapped in foam so that you have reliable support throughout. It displays vital metrics on an LCD. It’s big and backlit. Stats cycle one at a time. So reading and controlling your feedback is a breeze.

There is a one-year replacement warranty on parts. It only requires about 2.5 square feet of area. As far as the assembly is concerned, it’s minimal. You only have to clip the console and handle.

58 EXPERT SCORE

The main platform is made of 2 mm-thick, powder-coated steel. Unlike typical home stair steppers, it doesn’t use a cable pulley. Instead, a hydraulic drive system with a V-shaped lever enhances its smoothness and stability.


Adjustability:0
Durability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • The backlit display is easier to read in the dark
  • Shock-absorbing rubber pads reduce noise
  • Step range is balanced for strength and safety
  • A lifetime of customer support and service

Could be better:

  • No adjustable resistance or preset workouts

2. SUNNY HEALTH & FITNESS Stepper Exercise Machine - Runner Up

Sunny Health Fitness Stepper Exercise Machine

The California-based home gym equipment seller manages exercise bikes, treadmills, rowers, steppers, and ellipticals in its arsenal. You'll quickly find such products on Amazon and select stores in the US.

  • Type/Model: Twist-Action Stepper
  • Item Weight: 25.4 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 250 lbs
  • Color Palette: Black/Gray
  • Product Dimensions: 21.9” x 18.5” x 49.8”
  • Display: Time, Calories, Step Count, Total Count
  • Workout Programs: None
  • Additional Features: Handlebars, Adjustable Height, Hydraulic Drive System

It’s the advanced version of the iconic SF-S0978. People with balance issues had to seek external support. Now, 50” handlebars with padded grips toss out this complication. 

Adjustments are so extraordinary. You can lower the handle height. Similarly, another knob on the linkage system controls the step height. You can toggle between steep climbs and shallow strides. The higher the step, the more resistance it generates. Still, the assembly is simple.

The range and motion of footplates are almost similar to Sportsroyals. However, there are no hooks for resistance bands to spruce up your cardio. Take it as a leg training stepmill for home. The display is intuitive. It starts automatically as you step up and turns off within five seconds of inactivity. 

There are unique stabilizing rings at the base. It also uses dual hydraulic cylinders. Instructions suggest using it for less than 15 minutes to avoid overheating. Although you can stretch the routine, it might violate the 180-day replacement warranty on parts and components.

57 EXPERT SCORE

It’s the advanced version of the iconic SF-S0978. People with balance issues had to seek external support. Now, 50” handlebars with padded grips toss out this complication.


Adjustability:0
Durability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • Adjustable handle facilitates people of various height
  • Auto-off display saves battery
  • A knob controls the height and resistance of steppers
  • Rubber pads create an unshakeable foundation

Could be better:

  • No hooks to attach bands for arm workout

3. BALANCEFROM Adjustable Stepper - Budget Pick

BALANCEFROM Adjustable Stepper

BalanceFrom is a fairly recent company founded in 2021. But the laser-focus approach to producing better and cheaper fitness aids has led it among the giants of online retailers.

  • Type/Model: Mini Stepper
  • Item Weight: 15 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 300 lbs
  • Color Palette: Black/Gray
  • Product (Package) Dimensions: 16.5” x 13.7” x 8.8”
  • Display: Time, Calories, Step Count, Total Count
  • Workout Programs: None
  • Additional Features: Adjustable Height, Resistance Bands, Hydraulic Drive System

This stepper resembles other picks in its functions and features. However, it comes at a lower price point. You'll get a compact device with hydraulic cylinders under both footplates. You'll also notice the pop-up texture and raised edges on pedals. It clocks in under 15 lbs. Thus, you can easily slide it under your bed or tuck it away in a closet.

There are no handlebars. A pair of medium-strength resistance bands have been included. They attach through built-in D-rings on the frame's front tubes – “made of high-quality steel with aircraft-grade cables, tested for 300 lbs,” says the official description. 

BALANCEFROM Adjustable Stepper in use
photo by mommydeerose

LCD logs basic workout specs: time elapsed, calories burned, steps taken, etc. A little bigger and brighter display could be a welcoming upgrade. Directly under the console sits a big, black knob. Turn it clockwise or anti-clockwise to increase or decrease the step height, respectively.

All in all, BalanceFrom sells a great product with limited customization. If you’re looking for a step machine for home on a budget, consider the mission accomplished.

56.5 EXPERT SCORE

This stepper resembles other picks in its functions and features. However, it comes at a lower price point.


Adjustability:0
Durability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • A minimalist and budget-friendly stair stepper
  • Easier to move around than handled versions
  • Linear motion is natural and low-impact
  • Raised ankle support on footplates

Could be better:

  • Small screen can make progress tracking difficult
  • Make squeaks and knocking sound over time

4. SUNNY HEALTH & FITNESS Mini Stepper - Best with Resistance Bands

SUNNY HEALTH FITNESS Mini Stepper

We reviewed one of the SF steppers with handlebars and expressed dissatisfaction with missing resistance bands. Tables Turned! This original design is the best stair stepper machine you can get with bands.

  • Type/Model: Mini Stepper
  • Item Weight: 15.2 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 220 lbs
  • Color Palette: Black/Gray
  • Product Dimensions: 16” x 12.5” x 13.5”
  • Display: Time, Calories, Step/minute, Total Count
  • Workout Programs: None
  • Additional Features: Resistance Bands, Hydraulic Drive System, Intensity Adjustment

The Original (012-S) and Advanced (SF-S0978) are the same steppers. The upgrade only brought the intensity adjustment knob at the front. It’s more accessible and user-friendly. Also, hard plastic foot pads were swapped with a four-way frame and rubber stabilizers. Both models boast a similar weight rating.

Compared to the stepper with handlebars, its footplates are closer. The swirl sand texture ensures great traction without feeling too rough. They mimic a linear up/down stepping action. Although it doesn’t activate your core as much as twist action, people with mobility issues find it more convenient. 

SUNNY HEALTH FITNESS Mini Stepper in use
photo by mijul112

Don’t underestimate its performance, though. It’ll leave you huffing and puffing within minutes. Think of it as a steep hike rather than a simple walk. 

You’ll get pro-grade resistance bands like bungee cords with handles. The quality is awe-inspiring. They're adjustable in length. You can work up to twenty muscle groups, including the chest, arm, and back.

56.5 EXPERT SCORE

The Original (012-S) and Advanced (SF-S0978) are the same steppers. The upgrade only brought the intensity adjustment knob at the front.


Adjustability:0
Durability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • High-quality resistance bands for upper-body workouts
  • Anti-slip footplates with adjustable intensity
  • Reps per minute let you track speed progress
  • 100% pre-assembled and ready-to-use out of the box

Could be better:

  • Only three months of warranty
  • 220 lb weight limit may be low for some people

5. BODY POWER 2-in-1 StepTrac - Best with Elliptical

BODY POWER 2 in 1 StepTrac

Body Power is the subsidiary of Body Flex. It excels at producing cross-training machines, letting you do multiple types of training on a single machine. They save garage gym owners a lot of space and money.

  • Type/Model: Cross-Training Stepper
  • Item (Package) Weight: 96 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 250 lbs
  • Color Palette: Gray/Red
  • Product Dimensions: 24” x 42” x 62”
  • Display: Time, Calories, Speed, Distance
  • Workout Programs: YouTube Video
  • Additional Features: Resistance Control, Handlebars, Media Shelf

Body Power features a patented Curve Crank Technology. It’s a biomechanical innovation that disperses stepping force in two directions, creating a zero-impact oval path. It’s a blend of elliptical’s circular and stepper’s linear motions, absorbing shock rebounds on your knees.

There are open-back footplates and two sets of handlebars. Moving ones are synchronized with steppers for a high dose of upper-body workout. If you're not in the mood for straining your arms, get hold of the fixed U-shape handles. A straightforward LCD panel is attached, helping you track progress and set goals.

Above the monitor is ample space to slot your mobile device, tablet, or magazine. Since it uses a weighted flywheel, the operation is silent. No need to skip TV. Also, it allows magnetic resistance control. Turn the tension knob. Higher resistance means more oxygen supplied and more calories blasted.

There are no preset workout programs. But Body Power has crafted an introductory video with professional 12-minute workout and assembly guides.

56 EXPERT SCORE

Body Power features a patented Curve Crank Technology. It’s a biomechanical innovation that disperses stepping force in two directions, creating a zero-impact oval path.


Adjustability:0
Durability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • Evidence-based mix with high doses of key ingredients
  • Two sets of handlebars: moving and fixed
  • Eight-level silent magnetic resistance system
  • Suitable for full-body HIIT cardio and strength training

Could be better:

  • Assembly can be tricky and tedious without any user manual
  • Less portable than a standalone stepper

6. CUBII JR1 Under-Desk Elliptical - Best Seated

CUBII JR1 Under Desk Elliptical

Cubii belongs to Fitness Cubed, Inc. – a Chicago company looking to revolutionize the wellness industry. "Our mission is to make staying active a way of life," says the company's founder Arnav Dalima.

  • Type/Model: Mini Stepper
  • Item Weight: 28.6 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 250 lbs
  • Color Palette: Black/Purple, Black/Aqua
  • Product Dimensions: 17.54” x 23.15” x 10”
  • Display: Time, Calories, Distance, Steps/minute
  • Workout Programs: Cubii Studio+ app
  • Additional Features: Ergonomic Design, Whisper-quiet Pedal, Resistance Control

JR1 was the first Cubii. JR2 and Go models were released afterward. Their dimensions are identical. Make sure you have a few inches of clearance under the desk for pedaling. Also, the little elliptical is heavy and pricey. You’re supposed to use it while sitting. It’s a treasure chest for old-age or injured ones who can’t go out for a walk or jump on a cardio machine. But you should understand its muscle activation and fat burn will be less than standing exercise stair steppers.

Now to the good part! It looks chic in a black body with shiny aqua or purple flywheel. There are eight resistance levels to match your training program and intensity. A petite display shows basic stats. You can download Cubii mobile app to keep an eye on progress. It’ll give access to Studio+, full of pre-made and on-demand cardio, strength, and flexibility classes.

The Cubii isn't too stable on the ground. Meanwhile, it tends to slide away. The company sells a mat. It used to be complementary, but now costs extra.

55 EXPERT SCORE

JR1 was the first Cubii. JR2 and Go models were released afterward. Their dimensions are identical. Make sure you have a few inches of clearance under the desk for pedaling.


Adjustability:0
Durability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • Convenient design to be used while sitting
  • Access to Studio+ trainer-led workout programs
  • It comes with a wheel stopper for office chairs

Could be better:

  • Unstable performance without a floor mat
  • Recruits fewer muscles than traditional steppers

7. SUNNY HEALTH & FITNESS Pink Stepper Machine - Best Portable/Mini

SUNNY HEALTH FITNESS Pink Stepper Machine

P2000 is the recreation of SF-S0978 in a pink/white color scheme, compact dimensions, and about 16 pounds of overall weight. It’s the best stepper machine for home if portability is your concern.

  • Type/Model: Mini Stepper
  • Item Weight: 15.8 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 220 lbs
  • Color Palette: Pink/White
  • Product (Package) Dimensions: 16.3” x 13” x 13.6”
  • Display: Time, Calories, Step Count, Total Count
  • Workout Programs: None
  • Additional Features: Hydraulic Drive System, Intensity Adjustment, Stabilizer Rings

This little gadget takes up as much space as a stack of books. The load capacity maxes out at 220 lbs. But don’t let the size fool you. It’ll break your sweat instantly. In fact, many users have noted the resistance is too high, even at the lowest setting. Also, footplates are nearer due to compact design. If you have a pleasantly plump build, your knees will rub off each other. 

This product isn’t geared toward complete beginners or overweight people. For those who are after an elegant stepper that stashes away in the car's trunk, it checks off all the boxes. 

You’ll be able to exercise your glutes, hams, and quads effectively. The small frame also simplifies transportation. This model lacks elastic band hooks. If you’re willing to work up arms and chest simultaneously, SF mini stepper with resistance bands is a wiser choice.

54.5 EXPERT SCORE

This little gadget takes up as much space as a stack of books. The load capacity maxes out at 220 lbs. But don’t let the size fool you. It’ll break your sweat instantly.


Adjustability:0
Durability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • Small frame for hassle-free transportation and storage
  • Over 9” stride length for a moderate-level cardio
  • Four stabilizing rings keep it firmly planted on the ground

Could be better:

  • A tight frame may be restrictive for obese people
  • Limited utility; no bands or handles

8. VERSACLIMBER H/HP - Best Alternative

VERSACLIMBER H HP

The first vertical climber was made in 1981 by Dick Charnitsiki to bring cardio workouts indoors. It was incorporated as VersaClimber, the flagship offering of Heart Rate Inc.

  • Type/Model: Stair Climber
  • Item Weight: 65 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 350 lbs
  • Color Palette: Black
  • Product Dimensions: 36” x 44” x 90”
  • Display: Time, Calories, Step/minute, Total Count
  • Workout Programs: Standard, Programs, Race Modes
  • Additional Features: Heart Rate Monitoring, Cross Crawl Pattern, Three Grip/Pedal Adjustments

If you want intense indoor cardio that mimics natural activities like running or climbing, a traditional fitness stepper might fall short. VersaClimber is the best alternative in that case. An average person torches 100 calories in ten minutes or a mile of running. You can take 1000 steps meanwhile, it will kill off 50% more calories.

It has pedals and handles. You can adjust their position, expanding step height and arm travel to 20”. There are side rails to use as a stepper, powered with your pace. The HP model exhibits a heart rate sensor, which is super helpful in fat-burning programs. However, the variable resistance system is reserved for higher-end LX and SM. Another gripe is with the old-school display. Most of the monitor space is occupied by a number pad, compressing the LCD.

The outstanding characteristic of VersaClimbers is the contra-lateral or cross-crawl movement. Your knees and elbows go up/down from opposite body sides. It’s a natural gait.

54 EXPERT SCORE

VersaClimber is the best alternative in that case. An average person torches 100 calories in ten minutes or a mile of running. You can take 1000 steps meanwhile, it will kill off 50% more calories.


Adjustability:0
Durability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • Versa’s cross-crawl motion is superior to competitors
  • Excellent weight capacity with 350 lb limit
  • An optional polar-compatible heart rate sensor

Could be better:

  • No variable resistance in H/HP base models
  • The '80s display needs urgent revamping for better visibility

9. STAIRMASTER SM3 - Best Stepmill for Home

STAIRMASTER SM3

Stairmaster has three decades of history. Popular with workout geeks and celebrities like Madonna, the new Stepmill 3 is here to tone and tighten your muscles like never before.

  • Type/Model: Electronic Stepmill
  • Item Weight: 223 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 275 lbs
  • Color Palette: Gray
  • Product Dimensions: 46” x 29” x 73”
  • Display: Time, Calories, Watts, Pulse, Level, Step/minute, Total Count
  • Workout Programs: Warm-up, Fat-burning, Strength-based, and Interval Programs
  • Additional Features: Computerized Resistance, Media Shelf, Bottle Holder

SM3 boasts commercial-standard quality. There are wheels for rolling it away after training. The D-1 console is top-notch, displaying a wide array of metrics. Handrails contain EKG heart rate sensors. And preset warm-up, full-body, goal-based, and interval landmarks make workouts simple as well as enjoyable. Safety sensors at the base immediately stop the hamster.

Tiny details like accessories holders refine the real-time user experience. Also, padded grips on the handle enhance comfort, whereas large stoppers ensure anti-slip bottom. The brake and drive system is fully computerized.

Stairmaster values customer service. You'll get a lifetime warranty on the frame. The company has covered mechanical parts for five years and electronic components for two years. And a one-year warranty is applied on labor and wear items.

54 EXPERT SCORE

SM3 boasts commercial-standard quality. There are wheels for rolling it away after training. The D-1 console is top-notch, displaying a wide array of metrics. Handrails contain EKG heart rate sensors.


Adjustability:0
Durability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • Quality is approved by CPAT and WFI
  • Automated resistance switches 26-162 steps/minute
  • Ten workout programs, including weight loss and intervals
  • Cutting-edge console with pulse and power output

Could be better:

  • Each step is only 6” wide

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What Are the Benefits of Using Stair Stepper Machines?

Stepping machines provide endless benefits for cardiovascular endurance. Particularly, they’re good for:

✅ All Fitness Levels

Home stair steppers can adapt to all sorts of training requirements. An elite athlete can apply maximum resistance to beat an assault bike workout. Similarly, beginners and seniors can enjoy a low-impact, slow-paced motion. 

✅ Intense Calorie Burn

Stair steppers burn 180 to 250 calories in half an hour, thus aiding in weight loss. They boost your aerobic capacity by strengthening your lungs and increasing oxygen intake – keys to aerobic capacity. You feel more energetic and go the extra mile.

✅ Strong Legs

Progressing on stairs makes your quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves strong. These lower-body muscles are the foundation of an active lifestyle. Connected to this, your knees, core, and lower back also notice improvement.

✅ Active Recovery

Active recovery reduces muscle soreness, lactic acid buildup, and toxins in your body. Lifters often wonder how to recover on active days and end up pressing small weights. That's wrong! You can do stepping exercises instead.

stepper machine training

What to Look For in Stair Stepper Machines?

1. Adjustability

If you’re using a vertical or handled stepper, it must have height adjustability. Also, people have different stroke lengths. Go for adjustable footplates. So you don’t have to get in weird positions. 

Then, we have the option of variable resistance in some, as shown in the above stair stepper reviews.   

2. Durability

A machine’s lifespan depends upon its construction. Watch out for sloppy welds, shaky platforms, and fragile cables. They might snap during the workout and cause some injury.

The base should be of high-quality steel. Secondly, reliable hydraulic drive systems have become common and cheap. They enable a low-impact swivel motion.

3. Monitor Functionality

The display is a crucial feature. It doesn't only let you track workouts, but numbers also motivate you subconsciously. Duration, speed, calories, and distance are standard ratings. 

More expensive options are equipped with heart rate sensors, electronic tension control, Bluetooth connectivity, and preset routines. You should focus more on the console’s placement and visibility than on the frills. 

Tips From the Champ

A machine’s lifespan depends upon its construction. Watch out for sloppy welds, shaky platforms, and fragile cables. They might snap during the workout and cause some injury.

The base should be of high-quality steel. Secondly, reliable hydraulic drive systems have become common and cheap. They enable a low-impact swivel motion.

Oleksiy Torokhtiy
Oleksiy Torokhtiy

Olympic Weightlifting Champion

4. Portability

Mini steppers are more portable compared to climbers or stepmills. If you’re short on space, there are plenty of good mini steppers that you can pack and take anywhere, anytime!

Larger devices have handles and wheels to allow transportation.

5. Multifunctionality

A stair stepper workout machine can be multifunctional in various ways. 

Some products integrate bands for a dynamic workout. Others have moving or stationary handlebars. We also get 2-in-1 cross-trainers, such as Body Power StepTrac. They fuse multiple cardio machines into one platform.

6. Value for Money

Not necessarily a cheaper product indicates lousy quality or vice-versa. Our top three picks offer the best value for money. You can use them as a reference. 

When weighing cost and benefits, don’t downplay after-sales support. Stair steppers are a long-term investment. They must come with assuring warranty and an attentive support team.

home stair stepper

Difference Between Stepper, Climber, and Elliptical

Elliptical and stair climber/stepper exercise machines are gym staples for low-impact cardio. Seemingly identical, there are many differences among them.

A stepper has footplates that you’re always in contact with. They’re small, with basic display and resistance settings. You’ll rarely get preset workout programs. On the other hand, a climber employs handlebars that move back and forth in rhythm with your legs. It stimulates climbing motion, thus popular among athletes and rock climbers. But they’re relatively harder on your knees because your feet constantly leave pedals. The pedal movement of ellipticals is closer to steppers. They also have moving arm poles and a pair of stationary handles. 

A stair climber and elliptical trainer are good for total-body fitness, as they better engage your core and upper extremities. But these machines are large and expensive. Stair steppers are easy-to-use yet effective in working up your legs. You can store and move them around without much hassle.

How to Use Stair Stepper Machines Right?

Stair steppers are simple. But a few considerations will prevent any mishaps that might pose injuries or embarrassment.

  • Before getting on a stepper, make sure it stands on a flat floor. It might wobble on an uneven surface.
  • Step on the upper pedal, and it'll come down. Now put your second foot on the alternate footplate. Wear workout shoes for better grip.
  • You can use a handlebar or handrail to get up. But keep the movement in legs instead of arms.
  • Push the pedals through your heels to activate the glutes and hamstrings. Driving toes will unnecessarily recruit knees.
  • Maintain a neutral spine to avoid chronic pain. Improper posture can delay the results as well.
  • Choose the intensity and program wisely. HIT circuits are very famous. In any case, start and end the routine at a slow pace.
Stepmill

FAQ

Are stair steppers worth it?

Stair steppers are effective at burning major calories and working key muscles without putting much pressure on joints. From gladiators to soccer players, athletes have always stepped up and down to increase stamina and endurance. 

Is a stair stepper better than a treadmill?

A treadmill and stepper are go-to cardio favorites. A 1996 study ranked treadmills at the top for calorie burning. However, steppers follow a lower-impact path than treadmills. You push off your legs instead of landing on them. Also, they are better for building or toning muscles in your thighs and butts. 

Is stair stepper good for belly fat?

The secret to weight loss resides in being calorie deficient. So, there are two sides: optimizing your diet and crafting an exercise program. Since steppers are good at torching calories (180-250 in 30 minutes), they will surely accelerate the progress. But it will be more of an overall effect than spot-reduction of belly fat only. 

Conclusion

Steppers have earned a reputation for giving killer cardio. If the lift to your apartment or office breaks down someday, you'll experience it first-hand. 

This article hands you the best stair stepper machine options with valuable tips and facts. Sportsroyal workout machine is the finest quality on a value out there. 

Have you ever used a stepper in the gym? Or do you climb up and down actual stairs? Don't forget to share your ideas in the comment section and keep the notifications turned on for future updates. 

Also read:

References:

  1. Stair climbing at home for health benefits // University of Birmingham: https://etheses.bham.ac.uk/id/eprint/8550/
  2. Calories burned in 30 minutes for people of three different weights // Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-weight-loss/calories-burned-in-30-minutes-for-people-of-three-different-weights
  3. Does the Stair Climber Make Your Legs Bigger? // Chron: https://livehealthy.chron.com/stair-climber-make-legs-bigger-7482.html
  4. The effectiveness of walking versus exercise on pain and function in chronic low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials // National Library of Medicine: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29207885/
  5. What You Need to Know About Active Recovery Exercise // Health Line: https://www.healthline.com/health/active-recovery#how-it-works
  6. Are Stair Climbers Good for the Knees? // Chron: https://livehealthy.chron.com/stair-climbers-good-knees-3347.html
  7. Energy expenditure with indoor exercise machines // National Library of Medicine: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8618368/

Why Trust Us?

With over 20 years in Olympic Weightlifting, our team does its best to provide the audience with ultimate support and meet the needs and requirements of advanced athletes and professional lifters, as well as people who strive to open new opportunities and develop their physical capabilities with us.

All products we select are primarily approved and tested by the Olympic Weightlifting Champion Oleksii Torokhtiy. Under his guidance, we provide honest and reasonable assessments of the products we review by checking their characteristics, packaging, design, comfort and durability features, and general product rating. We select products from only high-quality and trusted sports brands, thus vouching for their quality.

The product testing process is described in more detail here

Ihor Shymechko

Author: Ihor Shymechko
Pro Olympic Weightlifter, Coach

Experience: 26 years
Best Results: Snatch – 208 kg,
C&J – 240 kg

Ihor has been a professional weightlifter since 1996, boasting over two decades of competition experience. His notable achievements include clinching the European Championship in 2009 and securing a silver medal in the 105kg division at the Senior World Championships in 2011. Ihor represented his country in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Summer Olympics. After retiring from competitive weightlifting, he transitioned to coaching, leveraging his vast experience to guide athletes who now compete on both national and international stages.

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Oleksiy Torokhtiy

Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy
Olympic Weightlifting Champion

Experience: 21 years
Best ResultsSnatch – 200 kg,
C&J – 240 kg

Oleksiy Torokhtiy is a professional athlete boasting 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. With multiple European and World titles under his belt, he has showcased his prowess in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008 and London 2012). Upon concluding his illustrious career, Oleksiy dedicated himself to coaching. By 2022, he had conducted over 200 weightlifting seminars worldwide. He is the visionary behind an international sportswear and accessories brand known for its motto, “Warm Body Cold Mind.” Additionally, he is an esteemed author and the creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.

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