Many gym-goers seek strong, muscular legs by working on a stair-step machine. Steppers require more effort than treadmills and therefore, burn more calories in a shorter time. Many sports enthusiasts use the stair stepper as a way to cross-train and get a great aerobic workout. The Gold's Gym Stepper 2000 has a light, compact design and minimal intensity levels, making it pretty straightforward and easy to operate.
Form
There really isn't a lot of difference between stair-step machines when it comes to proper form. Stand on your Gold's Gym Stepper 2000 in an upright position, paying attention to your posture; lean forward slightly from your ankles. Don't lean on the handrails or bend forward at the waist. Doing so may cause tension across your upper and lower back, as well as put stress on your knees. When working on the stepper, keep a light grip on the handrails, just touching the rails for additional stability.
Stepping
When stepping on your Gold's Gym Stepper 2000, place your feet firmly on both pedals. Your entire foot should fit on the platform of the pedal, with some additional space. Many people, especially when tired, begin to push through just the balls of their feet, or let their heels hang off the back of the pedal, in order to keep exercising. Keep your foot in contact with the pedal the entire time, to avoid injury.
Intensity
Intensity is often the reason otherwise perfect form is compromised. If you're working at a level that's too difficult for you -- if you find yourself leaning into the machine to push or your feet don't stay in constant contact with the pedals -- reduce the intensity of the machine. Speed is a factor to consider when properly utilizing your Gold's Gym Stepper 2000. If you're able to step relatively quickly, and you find yourself bobbing and jerking in the process, raise the intensity a notch so that you're taking slower, more controlled strides.
Alignment
Consider your body alignment when working with your Gold's Gym Stepper 2000. Your joints should always work in tandem with the direction your body is facing. Keep your chin lifted and eyes forward. Keep your knees pointed forward and don't let your feet turn out or away from your body. Keep your toes in perfect alignment with your knees, so that you don't put unnecessary torque on your joints and cause injury. If you find that you're having trouble maintaining good posture and form, find a trainer that can assist you with proper technique.
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