Stairmasters Vs. Treadmills

StairMasters come in two forms, and each simulates walking up steps. The stepmill has a revolving set of steps, while the stairclimber has pedals that move up and down. Both have handrails at the top for balance. A treadmill has a flat belt that moves around in a circular motion. This tool simulates walking and running on ground. These machines have similarities and differences, and the one you choose is a matter of personal preference.

Impact

High-impact exercise is contraindicated if you have lower back pain. The jarring forces of running on the treadmill can place excess stress on the spine. According to the SpineHealth website, exercising on a step machine provides a low-impact workout because you are not continually stepping on a hard surface. Even walking causes more jarring on the back than the smooth stepping motion of the StairMaster. Both machines provide weight-bearing forms of exercise. This type of training causes gravity to push down on your body while you are on your feet. Regular weight-bearing exercise helps strengthen the bones and reduce the risk for osteoporosis. This is beneficial, especially for women.

Calories

StairMasters and treadmills are cardiovascular machines that improve heart health and promote weight loss. The key to losing weight is reducing calories, and the StairMaster and treadmill both burn calories efficiently. A 150-lb. person, for example, burns about 525 calories stepping on a StairMaster for 60 minutes at a moderate pace. The same person burns about 575 calories running at 5 mph for 60 minutes on a treadmill. Be aware that your intensity will play a role in your caloric expenditure. If this 150-lb. person stepped at a vigorous pace for 60 minutes, she would burn almost 750 calories. To maximize your caloric expenditure with both machines, avoid leaning on the handrails as you work out.

Joint Considerations

Even though the StairMaster is a low-impact machine, it can still cause complications with your joints. According to Canada.com, stepping on the StairMaster causes front loading of the knees, which can be problematic if you have preexisting knee and hip issues.

Muscles Worked

The StairMaster and treadmill both work multiple muscles, especially in the lower body. Although using these machines will not cause you to become big and bulky, they will improve your definition. The main muscles targeted on the StairMaster are the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, calves and hip flexors. The treadmill works these same muscles, and you also get a little recruitment of the pectorals, deltoids and triceps when you run because your arms are swinging. Both machines also require you to contract your core -- the muscles in your lower back and stomach. This is to keep your body balanced during exercise. Remember that leaning on the handrails will take work away from your body. If you increase the incline on the treadmill, you will also increase the workload on your muscles. The way to increase the stress to your muscles on the StairMaster is by stepping up every two steps.

Program Features

The StairMaster and the treadmill have built-in program options that range from beginner to advanced. Both programs have speed fluctuations, but with the treadmill you can also vary the degree of incline. Treadmills also come equipped with a tether cord that you attach to your clothing. If you were to fall off during a workout, the cord would get pulled out and the machine would automatically shut down.