Best Steppers 2022

The stepper provides aerobic and cardio load on the body. Aerobic exercise is a type of exercise in which oxygen is the source of energy. First of all, they are aimed at enriching the whole organism with oxygen and strengthening all its systems. Cardio training is an aerobic exercise that is aimed at increasing metabolism, with intensive work of the heart and lungs. Regular workouts of this type lasting 40-60 minutes help strengthen the cardiovascular system, increase endurance, and keep the body in excellent physical shape. On the market, these simulators are presented in two versions: steppery и mini steppers.

Steppers are equipped with handles for fixing the position of the body. On models with a swivel mechanism, it is possible to perform twisting of the upper body simultaneously with stepping movements. Some models are additionally equipped with hand expanders.

There are steppers with interdependent и independent platform movement. With dependent pedal travel, the load is the same on both legs. With independent – it is possible to set a different load. This option, for example, is convenient for rehabilitation after an injury. The computer included in the kit counts the number of steps, calories burned and training time. In expensive models, the pulse rate is also measured. Steppers withstand a load of up to 100 – 120 kg, there are also simulators specifically for children. They have a bright design and they are designed for a child weighing up to 50 kg.

Mini steppers are more compact than usual due to the lack of handles, but they are equipped with hand expanders. All models have interdependent pedal travel. The computer measures only the training time and the number of steps, in some models the calories burned.

One of the modifications of ministeppers is a balancing ministepper. Its principle of operation is based on the transfer of weight from one leg to another with a shift in the center of gravity. Classes on this simulator develop coordination of movements and train the muscles of the legs that are not involved in walking. Mini steppers are designed for loads up to 100 kg.

The article presents a rating of steppers and ministeppers for home workouts, based on user reviews and expert opinion.

Editor’s Choice

HYPERFIT Supertrainer G-115

This stepper from a European brand is universal, designed to work out different muscles of the body: legs, hips, buttocks and upper body (for this, an expander is provided in the kit, which significantly expands its functionality). The load is adjustable, it can be increased or decreased as you wish. The stepper is equipped with the best hydraulic system in its class – quiet, reliable, creating even resistance. This is an extremely important parameter for home steppers.

Stepper pedals are considered among the best in the world for home exercise equipment. They are oversized, have a 3D tread with an innovative non-slip surface, a unique shape with bumpers on the sides. In analogs of other manufacturers, the pedals are smaller and there are no bumpers in them, which negatively affects stability during classes. Pedal travel is 38%, which is ideal for practicing at home.

The stepper frame is made of durable steel and additionally reinforced. Therefore, in comparison with analogues, the simulator is more stable and reliable. Also, to increase the reliability and stability of the stepper, a special fastening system is provided. Instead of cables at the bottom of the structure, all-metal bushings are used, due to which noise is also reduced and smoothness is increased.

To increase the effectiveness of training, a display is provided on which you can track your progress. This is the only stepper model in Our Country equipped with a phone holder. You can watch videos, movies, or listen to music while exercising. The handrail will help to maintain balance and fix the position of the body during classes. The same manufacturer has a model G-90, it is cheaper, but slightly inferior in terms of functionality.

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Top 11 Best Steppers of 2022 According to KP

1. Xterra RSX1500 horizontal

This treadmill is suitable for users of all ages and fitness levels. Due to the horizontal position of the legs during exercise, the load on the knee joints and back is minimal. Arm training levers allow you to load the muscles of the body in a complex way. Backlit display showing workout parameters. The on-board computer has 21 pre-installed training programs, as well as 4 custom ones. Using them, you can set the training parameters in accordance with your physical data. Hydraulic cylinders ensure quiet and smooth pedaling.

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2. VF-ST800 (staircase)

Professional stair trainer for home gym. He got his name because his canvas is made in the form of stair sills, along which the trainee will walk, simulating walking up the stairs. Classes on the stair stepper stimulate the cardiovascular system by increasing the heart rate, saturate the muscles with oxygen and help burn calories. It actively loads the lower part of the body, forcing the main groups of large muscles of the legs and buttocks to work. The built-in computer displays the distance traveled, movement speed, training time, calories burned and heart rate. The range of set speeds is from 15 to 164 steps per minute. There is a holder for a water bottle.

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3. Sport Elite GB-5085

Stepper with swivel mechanism to strengthen the muscles of the upper back and obliques. On it, you can combine stepping exercises with twisting the upper body. The built-in computer displays counts the training time, number of steps and calories burned in scan mode, that is, these data are displayed sequentially. It is battery operated and does not require an electrical connection, and the presence of handles and non-slip pedals ensure safety during classes. Hydraulic cylinders guarantee smooth and quiet operation of the platforms. The maximum user weight must not exceed 100 kg.

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4. DFC SC-S9010DG

A simple and convenient stepper for the home, it is equipped with comfortable handrails that provide stability when exercising on the simulator and help to avoid injuries and falls. Additional safety is achieved due to the anti-slip surface of the pedals.

The design is based on two hydraulic cylinders that provide a natural load for the body, similar to that which we get when climbing stairs. In addition, it is possible to change the load level to suit your personal preferences and capabilities using a special handle.

The display that the DFC SC-S9010DG is equipped with allows you to track such indicators as the duration of the workout, the total number of steps taken per session, the number of steps per minute, and the calories spent during the session on the stepper.

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5. BRADEX Cardio Twister SF 0033

The cardiostepper has 7 levels of load, both the athlete and the beginner will find the optimal mode for themselves. The steel construction is simple and reliable. The built-in computer will show and store in memory the number of exercises performed, calories burned and training time. These data are displayed in the scan mode, sequentially. The stepper has a swivel mechanism that allows you to train the upper body. It is quite compact and light, but there are no wheels for ease of movement, while it is designed for weights up to 113 kg. The kit includes a brochure with a description of the exercises.

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6. GymStepper Nordic Walking

GymStepper is a cardio machine that helps keep you fit and healthy. This model makes it possible to train the main muscle groups without leaving home. From the name it is clear that the simulator imitates Nordic walking.

Independent pedal travel allows you to adjust the load level for each pedal individually. Due to this, the most effective effect of the stepper on the muscle groups of the lower body is achieved.

The stepper does not need to be connected to a power source and is battery operated. It is equipped with a screen that displays information about the number of steps taken and calorie consumption during training.

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7. APPLEGATE PACE R GENERIC

Exercise machine for weight loss and maintaining the health of the cardiovascular system. The design provides the ability to adjust the front rack to the desired height. For the stability of the user during classes, the manufacturer has provided handrails with an anti-slip coating.

APPLEGATE PACE R GENERIC does not need to be connected to a 220V network and operates on batteries. The hydraulic loading system of this model allows the user to effectively reduce weight, improve blood circulation and work out the thighs, buttocks and calf muscles in a comfortable way.

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8. GymBit Nordic Walking

The presented model allows you to conduct effective Nordic walking training without leaving your home. The simulator allows you to work out all the major muscle groups. And in the process of exercising, the LCD displays information about the duration of the lesson, the number of steps and calorie consumption.

GymBit is an electrically independent trainer that runs on LR44 batteries. It features comfortable handrails and anti-slip pedals for maximum safety during regular workouts. In addition, it is possible to adjust the height of the pedals.

The device is foldable, small in size and relatively light in weight for steppers – 8.9 kg. This allows you to provide convenient placement of the simulator even with a small amount of free space in the living room.

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9. Atlas Sport AS-310

The Atlas Sport AS-310 multifunctional folding simulator allows you to work out various muscle groups not only thanks to standard pedals, but also a fitness circle with expanders. 

It is possible to control the degree of load on the pedals by switching the lever. During the exercise, the computer displays information about the duration of the workout, the frequency of steps and calorie consumption.

The presented device is independent of the power supply and operates in a completely autonomous mode from batteries. For full operation of the stepper, the maximum user weight should not exceed 120 kg.

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10. DFC SС-S039

Device for home cardio training, weight loss, muscle training of the legs and buttocks. The stepper is equipped with a stand and a handrail for comfortable operation and safety. It is also equipped with a high-precision heart rate sensor built into the handle of the stepper, which helps to monitor the state of the body during the workout.

The drag cylinder adapts to the user’s weight and adjusts in just 10 steps. The screen displays information about the number and frequency of steps, pulse and calorie consumption. The presence of wheels simplifies the process of moving the ministepper, and also makes its storage more convenient.

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11. Moove&Fun SH-10С (children)

The simulator is designed specifically for children weighing up to 50 kg. In the built-in computer, the bunny character helps the child keep track of his achievements: time, speed and distance traveled, and the bright design additionally stimulates him to work on the stepper. The pedals are independent, each of them can be assigned a different load. The load is regulated smoothly, from very light to more tangible. Steel body with soft lining. Height adjustable handle.

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Top 11 ministeppers of 2022 according to KP

1. BRADEX SF 0576

The mini stepper is compact in size and has hydraulic cylinders in the pedal mechanism for quiet and smooth movement. The simulator is not equipped with expanders, but there are “ears” for attaching them: if necessary, expanders can be bought separately and inserted into the place provided for them. The computer measures the total number of steps, the speed of movement (steps / min.), Workout time, the number of calories burned in scan mode. The parameters are displayed in turn. The trainer comes with oil to lubricate the moving parts of the mechanism. The exercise machine is calculated on the weight of the user to 100 kg.

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2. Body Sculpture BS-1122HA-B

Compact classic mini-stepper model. Due to the equipment of the hydraulic system, the load exactly repeats the load, as when walking up the stairs. During the workout, the display shows the duration of the workout, the number and frequency of steps, calories burned.

It has a small weight – only 6.3 kg. Withstands loads up to 100 kilograms. Works without connection to the mains, from “little finger” batteries. The load level is adjusted by turning the screw, there is an adjustment of the step amplitude. With proper use, it provides high-quality study of the muscles of the lower leg and thigh.

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3. COMPACT SLF S083

The mini stepper has hydraulic cylinders in the pedal movement for quiet and smooth movement of the mechanism. The surface of the pedals is grooved, non-slip, but according to users, they are narrow for large feet. The computer counts the number of steps per minute and calories burned. Battery powered, no mains connection required. The simulator has one level of load, while expanders are not included in the kit. Due to the lack of a gasket between the metal parts of the structure, they tap, hitting each other as they move. The user’s weight must not exceed 100 kg.

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4. Royal Fitness ministepper with expanders MSG-S3025

At the heart of the load system are two hydraulic cylinders with interdependent pedal travel. This mini stepper model is battery operated, which means that training can take place in any place convenient for you: in the country, in front of the TV, in the kitchen and even on the street. The main indicators of the training are displayed on the screen: the number and frequency of steps per training.

This miniature cardio machine gives the main load on the legs and muscles of the buttocks. The use of expanders, which the MSG-S3025 is additionally equipped with, also allows you to use the muscles of the arms, chest and back. 

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5. DFC SC-S100

The simulator is equipped with expanders for training arms and shoulder girdle. The built-in display shows the time, number of steps and calories burned. Power supply of the computer from the battery included in the package. The mini stepper has wide details, which is convenient for people with large feet. The pedals have non-slip pads for safety. Rubber dampers located under the platforms dampen the sound from hitting them against the frame. Hydraulic cylinders provide smooth and silent movement of the mechanism. According to user reviews, this model quickly weakens the pedal travel and the resistance to their foot pressure becomes insignificant. The manufacturer, in response to this claim, assured that performance degradation will not occur if the operating conditions described in the attached instructions are observed. Namely, it is not recommended to use the simulator for people weighing more than 120 kg, it is also necessary to periodically lubricate the pedals and not exceed the training time recommended by the manufacturer.

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6. ATEMI AS1720

The simulator allows you to improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system, strengthen the muscles of the pelvis, legs and buttocks, and effectively lose weight. This is a targeted training device that is designed to gently work the muscles of the legs and back. The display shows information about the duration of the workout, the number of steps taken and the calories burned.

This stepper operates from an independent power supply and is designed for a weight of not more than 100 kg. The foot surface is equipped with an anti-slip coating, which makes the process of training safer, given that the configuration of the mini-stepper implies the absence of handrails. Due to the presence of a load control system, it provides an optimal load for any level of user training. 

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7. ProRun, 300-1088

Miniature model of the device for effective cardio loads at home. The mechanism of action is based on hydraulic axles that mimic the effect of climbing stairs. The simulator is suitable for losing weight, strengthening the cardiovascular system and working out the buttocks, muscles of the inner and outer sides of the thighs and lower legs.

The ProRun 300-1088 is completely independent of the power supply and runs on batteries. The presented model of a mini-stepper is designed for weight up to 100 kg. It is compact and does not need a lot of free storage space.

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8. Sport Elite GB-5106/0722-03 (balancing)

This simulator differs from other mini-steppers that imitate stepping movements – it serves to develop coordination of movements. Training on it is to maintain balance while transferring weight from one leg to another and shifting the center of gravity. Additionally, the leg muscles that are not involved in walking, as well as the abdominal muscles, are loaded. This simulator is compact, lightweight, convenient for installation in a small room. Many users note the manufacturer’s defect: after several days of use, the pedal fastening gum may break. Platforms creak when moving due to the lack of a hydraulic load system. The display shows the number of calories burned during exercise. The mat included in the kit prevents the exercise machine from slipping on the floor.

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9. Brumer Step M2 TF-S032Y (rotary mini stepper)

The rotary stepper allows you to work out the muscles of the press and back due to the movements of the body to the sides in the process of exercising. During the training, there is no load on the knees, which means that the risk of injury is reduced to zero. The display shows information about such indicators as the duration of the workout, the number of steps, calorie consumption, step frequency.

The mini-stepper Brumer Step M2 TF-S032Y can withstand loads up to 100 kilograms and is battery operated. Its weight is 7 kg, so it is easy to move around the house and train in any convenient place.

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10. ATEMI AS-1320M rotary

The display of this stepper shows the number of calories burned, as well as steps per minute. The simulator is compact, with wide pedals, which is convenient for owners of large feet. The pedals have a non-slip grooved surface, which guarantees safety during training. There are no rubber dampers between the metal parts of the structure, so the simulator makes a rather loud knock during use. The mini stepper is designed for a user weight up to 100 kg, and the kit includes expanders for training arms and shoulder girdle. According to user reviews, the display quickly fails.

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11. URM B00018

A convenient cardio machine for home use, which is equipped with three training modes. It allows you to take care of your health and figure in the most gentle way. The set comes with expanders, which make it possible to additionally work out the muscles of the arms and back. During the exercise, the display shows information about the number of steps taken and calorie consumption.

The presented model of the exercise machine maintains loading to 100 kilograms. URM B00018 is a compact cardio device that won’t take up much space.

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How to choose a stepper

For help in choosing a stepper for home workouts, the editors of the KP turned to an expert, Valery Vershinin, fitness trainer at Lomov gym. She told about indications and contraindications for classes on a stepper family orthopedist of the First Professional Network of Orthopedic Salons ORTEKA Elena Pastarnak.

Indications and contraindications for classes on the stepper

Elena Pastarnak is sure that a sedentary lifestyle, or physical inactivity, is harmful to everyone and at any age. The easiest way to deal with its effects is walking. At least 30 minutes a day should be allocated for walking at a moderate pace. When there is no way to leave home and walk through the park, a stepper is a good alternative – a simulator that imitates walking.

Like regular walks, exercises on this simulator contribute to the work of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, improve blood circulation and metabolic processes, train the musculoskeletal system, strengthen ligaments and joints. Regular exercise has a beneficial effect on the immune system, helps improve digestion and get rid of extra pounds. During such training, the back muscles and abs are strengthened. It is also an excellent prevention of varicose veins – when moving, the muscle-venous pump works better, which stimulates the flow of venous blood through the vessels and does not allow it to stagnate. Classes on the stepper are recommended for people during rehabilitation after injuries and for the prevention of diseases of the musculoskeletal system (osteochondrosis, osteoporosis), as well as for those who lead a sedentary lifestyle.

However, the expert reminded that before starting sports training, one should visit an orthopedic traumatologist. The doctor will assess the condition of the spine and the entire musculoskeletal system, find out if you have any contraindications for this sport. It will also help determine safe initial loads.

Among the main contraindications to classes on the stepper:

• acute injuries (dislocations, sprains, fractures),
• cardiovascular diseases,
• uncompensated arterial hypertension,
• acute respiratory infections,
• degenerative changes in the musculoskeletal system,
• severe diabetes,
• problems with the kidneys, liver and other internal organs in the acute period.

According to Elena PastarnakIn order for classes on the stepper to be as effective and safe as possible, you need to protect your joints. To do this, the expert recommends the use of sports bandages on the knee and ankle joints.

You need to practice on the stepper in comfortable shoes with orthopedic insoles that support the arches of the feet in an anatomically correct position and protect them from stress.

An important rule – you need to know the measure in everything! Overload can be harmful. While exercising, carefully monitor your heart rate and listen to your body.

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