Whether it's running on a treadmill, elliptical machine or stepping on a mini stepper, any kind of workout is a good workout. As long as you spend an adequate amount of time on your machine of choice a few days a week, you are guaranteed to see results.
Background
A mini stepper is simply two pedals attached to a small base. As you push down on the pedals with your feet, hydraulic cylinders create resistance which, in turn, provides a great cardio workout. Some mini steppers feature a stationary handle, resistance bands and movable arms, while others may provide a workout CD/DVD or a fitness monitor that keeps track of time, calories burned and steps taken. Many are portable and easy-to-store.
How It Works
As its name implies, simply step on the mini stepper and move your feet up and down as if climbing stairs or walking in place. For a more challenging workout, use either resistance bands or movable arms to experience a full-body workout. Both kinds of mini steppers are low-impact and easy on the joints. Exercise enthusiasts of all ages can enjoy this workout.
Health Benefits
A mini stepper provides an upper and lower body workout, tightens and tones your body and increases your heart rate, a key component to an effective cardio workout and losing weight. According to CalorieLab, using the mini stepper for 15 minutes at a fairly light effort burns 104 calories. Turn up the effort and you may burn up to 626 calories an hour.
Recommended Mini Steppers
Endorsed by fitness expert Denise Austin, the Phoenix Mini Stepper features dual hydraulic cylinders for resistance, as well as a battery-operated fitness monitor to help keep track of time and steps taken. It also features dual action, adjustable arms and a smooth pulley design to vary up your stride range as well as keep quiet while you work out. The Stamina InStride Pro Electronic Stepper comes with resistance bands to provide for a full-body workout, as well as an electronic fitness monitor that keeps track of your strides per minute, number of steps taken, exercise time and calories burned. It also features a sturdy, shock-resistant steel construction and skid-resistant rubber floor protectors.



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