A cardio workout provided by the stair steppers allows the user to push independent foot pedals up and down or for climbing a rotation staircase. The user can adjust speed in most models. According to fitness professionals, elliptical trainers captured the stair stepper machine market because of the inclination and ski-type motion of elliptical machines enables the user a more varied aerobic workout and also a lesser impact on joints. But stair-steppers have reasons to be considered as they provide aerobic workout of lower impact than running and also help in toning of lower body muscles. According to the editors at BabyCenter.com, proper alignment of stair steppers makes a good choice for pregnant women as it put little pressure on the lower back.

Mini-Steppers

Mini-steppers are for people who do not have enough money to spend for a stair stepper. If you travel a lot or having very little storage space, mini stepper or a portable stair stepper is a good option. Mini steppers are with a floor level steel frame with footplates and attachable resistance ropes and there are no handrails for balance. Mini steppers are tested by a sports magazine and they found that the mini-steppers are stable enough with out the handrails. There is only a low 12.5 inch step height and there is no hand rails, no display and no programs in a smaller mini stepper. Another mini stepper has a computer display system which tracks the time, speed, climbed steps and energy consumption but you have to bend to the floor level to see the display.

There are few models of mini steppers which can be folded when you are not using it. Electronic monitors in folding mini steppers can count the steps per minute, workout time, steps during workout and calories burned. These mini stair steppers have casters and hence it is easy to move around. These mini steppers have two hydraulic cylinders with adjustable resistance but there is no heart-rate monitor and programs.

While selecting a stair stepper or climber, you have to take care of the following: