If you've ever found yourself climbing six floors because a building's elevator is broken, you know stair stepping is a challenging, cardiovascular workout. Most stair steppers focus on minimal-impact lower body movement. There are two main types of steppers: electronic and manual. An electronic stepper's movement is motor-generated, while manual steppers are value models that operate off of air pressure pistons. A piston stepper usually provides a lower level workout. Steppers' adjustable resistance levels factor into the difficulty of a workout, so you should be able to easily adjust resistance on any model. If you are in fair to good shape now and want to break a sweat in a short amount of time, the stepper is a fitness machine to consider.
What to Look for
Stair steppers often come with front and side rails, but there are full-size models with no side rails. The manufacturers of these latter models think this encourages less bending and leaning, actions that are biomechanically unsound for stepping. Yet without side rails to hold lightly, you will need to have some leg strength and be ready to engage it. Plus, side rail models do offer that extra security if your balance is not the best.
The consoles on stair steppers report your workout stats, such as calories burned, steps climbed, time elapsed and more. More expensive stair steppers offer a number of customizable programs, with hills and interval training, in conjunction with manual options. When sampling the stepper, push the controls and see how easily you can start your workout. Stepping should feel smooth.
Check to see how the control buttons increase or decrease intensity. Stop in the middle of a pace and notice how well the stepper releases you to the floor. For an above-average workout, consumer guides suggest you look for "independent step action" or "independent pedal geometry" in the product description. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) describes this in its 2002 brochure "Selecting and Using a Stair Stepper/Stair Climber" as simply the pushing of one step down should not push the other step up. The frame of the stepper should sit balanced, level and stable on the floor. If it is wobbly, leave it at the store.
Common Pitfalls
You've probably seen exercisers leaning on the handrails or bending too far forward onto the front rail of a stepper. This negatively affects your workout. It is better to reduce the intensity and step with a naturally upright body. Choose stepper pedals that fit your foot size well to prevent numbness or tingling.
Stair steppers come in a variety of prices, but if you are used to a club stepper, you may not be happy with a budget model. Be sure to evaluate the noise level when shopping. Certain steppers, including some piston models, are noisier than others, and you may just want to watch television while climbing to new fitness heights.
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