A step climber, or stepper, is a piece of aerobic exercise equipment that simulates walking up a flight of stairs. Using a stepper machine can help you lose weight by burning calories; it also improves heart health and tones the calves, thighs and glutes. Before starting any exercise program be sure to consult a physician.
Weight Loss
The number of calories you burn can promote weight loss. MayoClinic.com notes losing weight at a reasonable rate of 1 to 2 lbs. per week requires you to burn 500 to 1,000 calories more than your normal, needed consumption amount each day. This caloric deficit can be attained through regular exercise or eating a low-calorie diet.
Factors
The intensity and duration of your stepper workout affects the number of calories burned. The American Council on Exercise notes your basal metabolic rate, or the number of calories you burn at rest, also affects the number of calories you expend during physical activity, your caloric needs and weight loss.
Calories Burned
Health Status notes that a 175-lb. person burns approximately 556 calories during one hour of exercise on a step climber. The manner in which you step can vary the number of calories burned. Demanding movements such as stepping while facing away from the machine or twisting while stepping can increase the number of calories burned. Stepping off of the balls of your feet helps to tone the calves while stepping off of the heels brings helps define the hamstrings and glutes.
Types of Stepper
Different types of stepper machines offer distinct benefits. Side steppers target the outer- and inner-thigh muscles. An elliptical stepper with its extended arms provides an upper-body workout. A twist stepper targets your abs and obliques while the traditional stair stepper machine helps tone your legs. A mini stepper is a smaller version of the traditional stepper used in some gyms. Using side, mini and twist steppers require greater balance.
Member Comments