A mini stepper provides the benefits of a large stair-stepping machine, without the expense and bulk. While it may seem awkward and unsteady at first, your mini stepper can become an integral part of both your cardio and strength training workouts. If you have never used a mini stepper before, it's important to follow safety protocol until you are comfortable with it. Once you get the hang of your mini stepper, you can add more challenging exercises and a variety of applications to help keep you fit.
Get Support
Because the stair stepper lacks the frame work around the machine as a full-size stepper has, you may feel out of balance or unsupported the first time you use it. If possible, place the mini stepper next to a high backed chair or a bar that you can hold on to to steady yourself until you get used to the motion. Once you feel more comfortable with the motion, you can try exercising without the added support.
Good Posture
When you first step on the mini stepper, it can seem tempting to hunch forward to maintain your balance. But this position can leave your back sore after a long workout. Instead, concentrate on pulling in your abdominal muscles to support your balance, and standing up straight with a neutral spine. This will help you get the most benefit possible from your mini stepper workout routine.
Step Depth
Some exercisers may find that when they step on the mini stepper, it automatically sinks to the floor. From this position you should step so that that step only falls midway between its highest position and the floor, which means you'll need to adopt a steady pace as you step, notes fitness website Novafeel.com. Through trial and error, you'll find that you can soon keep the steps moving and your pace and height correct. Small, shallow steps will not be beneficial, and deep steps may be too challenging.
Exercise Routine
Since mini steppers are so small and portable, you can take them almost anywhere with you. CBS affiliate KCBY in Oregon suggests that you keep a mini stepper under your desk at work to keep your legs moving, even when you're in your office chair. The instruction manual for a popular brand of mini stepper notes that you should start stepping and go as long as you can, slowly working up to 30-minute workouts at a time. Use your mini stepper at least three times per week as part of a cardio and strength training workout.
Resistance Level
Some mini steppers come with the option to use resistance along with your mini stepper workout. This resistance usually comes in the form of exercise bands that are attached to the stepper, that can be engaged with your arms as you step. If you'd like a more rounded workout, look for a mini stepper that offers medium level resistance bands. It can add another dimension to your workout and enhance a workout for a more experienced exerciser.
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