Stair steppers, or also known as stair climbers, can be great additions to any home workout routine. Stair steppers are a great aerobic exercise that burns calories and builds your lower body. The legs and the butt are constantly worked with each and every step you take. They give the same results as walking or running up and down stairs without the stress that a hard surface can put on your legs and knees.

Sales of elliptical trainers have caused the purchase of stair steppers to slip because many people want the variety that an elliptical trainer provides. Don’t let that recent trend prevent you from considering a stair stepper because they are still great machines that provide an excellent workout.

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Here are some things to look for when shopping for a stair stepper:

Dependent Vs. Independent Stepping
There are two basic step types offered on stair steppers. On a dependent stepper, when one side is pressed down, the other side goes up. Independent steppers are “independent,” meaning one step isn’t controlled by the other. This means that each leg works on its own and provides a more natural “step feeling.”

Both models come with adjustable speed and resistance to provide a workout that meets your needs. You should try both types and purchase the one that feels better to you. Chances are, however, the independent stepping style is what you’re going to want because of the more natural stepping feel it provides.

Stability
Obviously you will be putting a lot of pressure on your stair stepper. It is important to make sure you purchase a machine that will be durable and can handle intense workouts. Look for a model that doesn’t shift during your climb and is comfortable and smooth while in action. A machine that wobbles will likely not stand up to your workout.

Drive Mechanisms and Shocks
Quality stair steppers will use belts and steel cables to provide the stepping motion because the result is a smoother, quieter workout.

Quality manual stair steppers will also use hydraulic shocks, which are filled with oil. Hydraulic shocks will make your machine last longer. Some older models use pneumatic shocks, which are filled with air. These machines have a higher chance of wearing out quickly and make your stair stepper useless until they are replaced.

Computerized Models
Stair steppers that are computerized are the models most often found in health clubs. They are available in home fitness models but tend to be more expensive. These machines offer a smoother workout because they use flywheels to control the movements instead of an alternator. The flywheel is moved by belts or cables as you exercise.

Pre-Programmed Workouts
Many stair steppers offer options for pre-programmed workouts. These programs create different workouts to help you exercise in different heart rate range and intensities. Some programs offer a monitor that will gauge the steps taken, calories burned, and time of exercise. If you think you will make use of features such as this, be sure to check out models that offer these as they can prove motivating and inspiring.

Space
When purchasing home fitness equipment, people are often concerned about the amount of space it will take to store the machine. Stair steppers do not typically require as much room as other fitness machines. If you have extremely limited space, consider a mini stair stepper.

Mini Stair Steppers
The mini stair stepper does not have handrails. They are just the pedal portion of the stair stepper. Some models, however, come with a bar attached to a rope that you pull up from the stepper to provide a make-shift handrail.

Mini stair steppers are great if you have limited space or are on a tight budget. They are also light-weight and easily portable, and can easily be stored in any closet (just don’t forgot about them). They do not provide the same level of intensity, however, that a traditional stair stepper does.

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