A stair climber is a cardio fitness machine used in gyms, fitness centers and homes. It consists of two pedals that move up and down, simulating stair climbing. Stair climbers provide an intense workout; you may need some time to build your stair-climbing endurance if you are not accustomed to this style of cardio training.
Identification
Stair climbers can be as simple as a couple of pedals attached to some handrails or as complex as a unit with a motor, pedals, handrails and a display console. Stair climbers may be manual or motorized. The motor in a stair climber regulates the pedal movement, helping to keep the motion smooth and consistent. Manual stair climbers have air-pressurized pistons that regulate pedal motion. Although not as precise as motor-regulated machines, manual stair climbers are quieter and less expensive.
Function
Stair climbers provide users with a movement different from other popular cardio machines, such as treadmills and elliptical machines. Cross-training with new equipment adds variety to your workout routine, warding off mental and physical boredom. Stair climbers offer an intense aerobic workout and a strengthening workout for the muscles of your lower body, including your quads, hamstrings and glutes.
Features
Stair-climbing machines have two types of foot action. In dependent foot action, the pedals work together -- pushing down on one pedal raises the other one. In independent foot action, you must lift your lower foot for the bottom pedal to rise -- the pedals work independently of each other. Independent foot action requires more effort to control the stepping motion. Most stair climbers offer varying levels of climbing resistance. The higher the resistance, the harder it is for you to push down the pedals, which makes the exercise more intense.
Considerations
The American Council on Exercise notes you may need a period of time to build your endurance when using a stair climber. The movement is significantly different from a treadmill, bike or elliptical and necessitates time for you to develop aerobic endurance and muscular endurance in your legs. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of your sessions. The movement on a stair climber machine is not as low-impact as some other machines, such as an elliptical or an exercise bike. If you have knee issues, consult your physician or orthopedist before using a stair climber.
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