Stair stepping exercises are just what they sound like--stepping up, and sometimes also down, on stair-like obstacles. They can be done on a standard staircase, indoors or out, or on one or stationary steps.
Benefits
Stair stepping stresses--and thus strengthens--the cardiovascular system, including the heart and lungs at the same time it strengthens the legs. Because all you need is one or two stairs--or a flight of them--they don't require expensive exercise equipment, and you can push yourself hard enough to justify doing a short workout instead of a long, slow one.
Significance
Stair stepping exercises work the hamstrings, quadriceps and glutes. You'll also find them to be good exercise for your calves, especially if you focus on pressing up on your toes with each step.
Form
Keep your head up, shoulders back and spine in neutral position--normal "good posture"--when doing stair stepping exercises. At no point should your knees protrude forward past an imaginary vertical line extending up from your toes.
Misconceptions
There's a popular misconception that the more you bend your knees the better the workout you're getting. Your knees should, in fact, never bend any sharper than a right angle.
Warning
Knee alignment is especially critical when exercising on stairs. Always keep your knees and toes pointing in the same direction.
Gauntlets
Some stair stepping exercise machines, not-so-affectionately known as Gauntlets, work like miniature escalators, offering the effect of an endless staircase.
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