Stair steppers first came out in the 1980s, but have been eclipsed by the more popular elliptical machine. In fact, from the years 2000 to 2009, the use of the elliptical grew by 260 percent, reports Club Industry in May 2010. Both machines offer a way to fit in a cardiovascular workout and tone the legs. Which one you choose really depends on your personal fitness goals and physical condition.
Stair Stepper Features
The stair stepper machine consists of two foot plates attached by an internal chain which provides resistance as you shift your body weight side to side. The movement mimics the biomechanics of stair climbing. Health clubs usually carry just the electronic model, but manual models are available for home purchase and range from mini versions which lack a frame and console to full-sized models. These manual models are controlled via air pressure pistons. Sometimes step mills--which feature a revolving staircase--are also referred to as stair steppers.
Elliptical Features
Elliptical machines debuted in the 1990s. They consist of two foot plates that glide along a set of rails to simulate the movement of running or, if you raise the height of the rails significantly, stair climbing. Some ellipticals come with arm poles that look like ski poles you pump back and forth as you move your legs. The difficulty of your workout is controlled by the speed at which you move your legs--your stride--and the level of resistance you set by pressing a button on the console.
Benefits
Both cardio machines help you burn calories, increase your cardio respiratory fitness level and tone the muscles of your legs. As long as you do not hold onto the hand rails or console, both machines help improve your balance and core strength. Exercising on a general stepper machine burns about 270 calories in a half hour for a 130-lb. person, while an general workout on the elliptical burns about 285 calories in the same amount of time.
Considerations
Some people find climbing a set of stairs for 30 minutes or longer a boring and uninspiring way to exercise. It is easier to read or watch television while pedaling an elliptical movement because it does not cause the same bouncy, up and down movement of a stepper. According to an article in the "Vancouver Province" from February 20, 2006, those with hip or knee problems may find regular workouts on stair steppers can cause pain. An elliptical, however, is much less likely to aggravate knee or hip pain. The movement of the elliptical may be easier to master than the up/down movement of the stepper.
Strategy
If you have no joint problems, the best strategy would be to incorporate both machines into your workout to add variety, combat boredom and train muscles in different ways. If physical limitations make stepping movements uncomfortable or painful, the elliptical is obviously the best choice. On either machine, make sure you are familiar with the controls and use proper form. Stand with an upright posture, bearing the weight of your body in the legs. Avoid slouching or gripping the hand rails too tightly, warns the American College of Sports Medicine.
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