With such a varied assortment of exercise machines and equipment on the market boasting all sorts of health benefits, it can be really overwhelming to know what's right for you. If you’re after a piece of equipment that will help sculpt your lower body and get your legs, glutes, hips and thighs looking toned (I mean, who isn’t?), all while completing a cardio workout – a stepper machine is the perfect option.
Whether you’re an old hand with all things gym related, or you are looking to embark on a new fitness journey, the benefits of stepper machines are endless. They are practical for all and can be adapted for your strength level. Due to their low impact nature, they are a great option for people with sensitive joints or those who are new to gym equipment.
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What is a stepper machine?
Stepper machines simulate the action of ascending a flight of stairs. This movement is particularly great at working out the lower body, especially your bottom.
Many steppers also include resistance bands or moving handles which help tone your core and arms - definitely something to bear in mind when making the decision on which one to buy.
Benefits of a stepper machine
Stepper machines are a low impact aerobic workout and can also be used to aid strength training depending on resistance levels.
Not to be underestimated, the stepper can provide a great cardio workout, which contributes to any weight loss goal when combined with a healthy diet.
You use the biggest muscles in your body on a stepper machine which means more calories burned during a workout. It also engages your core and is easy on your joints while still building strength without applying a large amount of pressure.
According to a study on using a stepper or stair climber in sedentary office workers, it is one of the best low-impact exercises out there as it can improve the volume of oxygen in your body. And if you're looking to track your calories and overall health, a fitness tracker is an excellent addition to your working out routine.
Check out: The best Stepper Machines
Most affordable home stepper machine
This affordable offering from Phoenix allows you to work your lower body like a conventional stepper machine but can also be used for a variety of upper body and core workouts, making it a very versatile bit of kit for all gym bunnies! Its lightweight and compact design make it an ideal choice for those who are often on the move.
Pros
- Great for multi-purpose and full-body workouts
- Two heights to choose from – 10cm and 15cm
Cons
- Small platform – limited space for movement
- Will require slip mats underneath legs if working out on wood/ tile flooring
www.aosom.co.uk
If you're looking for a stepper with the added support of handlebars, this machine is a great option with a reasonable price tag. The ergonomically designed handlebars, coupled with the extra-wide non-slip pedals, make this bit of kit feel sturdy and safe and alleviate any worry for those who struggle with balance. Currently out of stock, but you can sign up to get notified when available.
Pros
- LCD screen, which displays scan, time, count, frequent and calories
- Ergonomic stability designed handlebars for upper body support
Cons
- Own assembly required
www.decathlon.co.uk
The twisting motion of this Decathlon stepper gives an intense workout for your core muscles, as well as working your lower body and your upper body when using the added resistance bands. The four integrated trackers help you keep on top of your progress. At under £50 - what's not to love?
Pros
- Compact design for easy storage
- Four-function console: repeats, duration, frequency and calorie expenditure.
Cons
- High resistance – better suited to incline centred workouts
www.argos.co.uk
A very basic version of a stepper, this Argos Opti Mini Stepper boosts your cardio and strengthens your lower body muscles. It's compact but sturdy and can be hidden out of the way when not in use.
Pros
- Includes resistance cords for upper body exercise
- Includes a screen that shows the scan, count, time, calories used and reps/min
- Comes pre-assembled and ready to use
Cons
- Can be quite noisy when in use
www.decathlon.co.uk
This piece of kit would be an investment in your fitness. Although on the pricier scale of stepping machines, this Cardio HIIT Trainer offers more options in terms of speed, resistance and interval training.
Pros
- Provides the ultimate full-body workout
- 24 levels of resistance
- iFit compatible console with connected tracking and speakers
Cons
- The most expensive stepper machine in our round-up
- Quite big and heavy, so will need a dedicated place to use and store
Best for toning
The black and yellow up-down stepper by Vinteky has a robust metal frame and supportive grips for your feet when stepping. There are also additional resistance bands attached to tone your arms for a full-body workout.
Pros
- Multi-functional LCD display screen
- Adjustable resistance
- No assembly required
Cons
- Smaller foot pedals – better suited to petite frames and small feet
- Minimal grip on foot pedals
Best all round
This DACHUANG stepper is a great choice as it doesn't just provide a tough workout for your legs and glutes but, thanks to the added resistance bands, your arms and abdominal muscles also benefit - so a real winner all round! The stepper has a multifunctional display and can record calories, steps and training time - helping you to stay on top of your workout.
Pros
- Non-slip pedals for feet and shoes
- Adjustable resistance
- Affordable and efficient
Cons
- Height of the peddles is non-adjustable
- Stiff to start with, but adjusts with continued use
All of these stepper machines have been hand-selected by What's The Best shopping experts. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching, so you can choose the best one. Plus, we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in. Find out why you should trust us here.
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Which stepper machine is best for me?
There are different variations of stepper machines available, all replicating the movement of walking upstairs, but some have added benefits. These include:
• Mini Stepper Machines– a great option if you are short on space.
• Side Steppers – they have the added element of allowing you to step side to side, as well as up and down, helping to work out the core and thighs.
• Twist Steppers – the twisting motion of these steppers helps to target the abs and obliques.
• Elliptical Steppers – these stepper machines include movable arm handles, providing an added arm workout. A great option if you need added stability.
• Step Mills – these are the large machines you will often see in the gym which look like a mini escalator.
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Do stepper machines burn belly fat?
As with all workouts just targeting your belly fat isn't a surefire way to lose pounds from your stomach. A combination of a balanced diet and regular exercise will help you lose inches.
Stepper machines work the core quite considerably, so will improve your strength and balance. As the stepper is a cardiovascular workout the more intense you step the more calories you will burn, and with consistent workouts, you may see a change in your body shape.
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Stepper machine vs treadmill
When considering whether a stepper machine or a treadmill is the most effective piece of equipment, you need to factor in your end fitness goal.
They're both great pieces of equipment for cardio workouts, improving endurance and burning calories. They both work for the same lower body muscle group, with the stepper more focused on glutes and quads, and improving muscle tone.
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There are more variable options in a treadmill like adjusting incline and speed, whereas the stepper remains fixed and it's up to the user to exert themselves. It is also lower impact, with the treadmill putting more pressure on your knee joints.
The treadmill is a bigger investment both in money and space, with the stepper machine being a good option for those on a lower budget.
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